I would like to respond to "Little support for families" (letter, Aug. 21).

Let me take this opportunity to praise the community who does care for servicemembers and their families; it is us! It is the chaplains, the noncommissioned officers, commanders and leaders, self-help agencies, medical community and family readiness group volunteers. I have worked with many wonderful people who are ready to help military families succeed in life.

The writer does point out some challenges, and I could fill many more columns of challenges. However, the support and sustainment offerings run deep. Money issues constitute one of two main concerns the writer describes. Army Community Service has a financial readiness adviser prepared to walk a family through budgeting to prevent financial hardship in the first place; if the family is already there, the advisers will help the family get on the road to financial prosperity, on any budget.

Another issue the writer describes is suicide. We know this is a problem and the pressures on the force can be crushing. We are all enlisted to try to eradicate this epidemic. The resources are there!

I have been blessed to work with many volunteers who selflessly give hours and hours of time to help build resilient families, and I am proud to count myself an ally of those people.

I encourage everyone to get involved in whatever organization fits you. If you’re feeling isolated or need a helping hand, reach out to one of these great organizations or resources: FRGs, Military Family Life counselors, ACS, www.militaryonesource.com, a chaplain, or a trusted friend.

The support waters run deep in the military, and we can help one another to the water. But you have to utilize the support. We cannot do it for you.

Eric JonesFamily Readiness Support AssistantKaiserslautern, Germany

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