http://www.thedailycitizen.com/     

Families a priority for guard unit

By Al Collier

For The Daily Citizen

Reservists active in Iraq can worry less about their families due in part to the support the Arkansas National Guard offers to the family members.

Spec.Travis Healy explains, "In the past we used the motto 'we recruit soldiers and retain families' that is still true today."

While many of the Beebe unit of the 39th Brigade is in Iraq, several are still drilling in Beebe.

The National Guard still has a role in homeland security as well as being prepared to assist the state in times of disaster.

"While we could not put as many people out as normal, we could still get the job done with no problem," said Sgt. Everett Stephens, local recruiter.

One role those still drilling in Beebe take seriously is helping to support families.

"Beebe has a strong support program to ensure that no family member feels alone or left out. The soldiers know that their families' needs are being taken care of by one of their own, some one from their unit," said Healy.

The Beebe unit is a "smoke decon" platoon. It is involved in generating smoke for deceptive purposes as well as taking part in decontamination procedures.

The Iraq operation is the first time the whole 39th Brigade has been activated at the same time. It is also the first time in history that it has been in the same area of duty at the same time. Even though a large number of reservists have been called up for active duty, there remains about one half of the total reserve continuing to drill in the state.

"Just because you are in the reserves does not mean you will necessarily serve in Iraq," Stephens said. "We have people in this unit who will never go to Iraq.

"Many parents are worried that their children will graduate high school, enlist in the reserves then be off to Iraq. That is just not the reality."

"The National Guard still needs men and women to drill, practice and learn so that in times of need they can protect the state," said Stephens. "Beebe has several openings right now and needs people willing to serve their country."

iWebTech:    Chird Bobbitt

Veterans Affairs