Montana National Guard taking Yellow Ribbon Program to the streets

National Guard support-campaign helps vets, families
By MARTIN J. KIDSTON - Independent Record - 05/10/09
A team of soldiers and airmen with the Montana National Guard will take their message to the streets over the next few weeks to let their fellow service members know that help is available if needed.

For the second consecutive year, members of the Guard will cross the state to promote the Yellow Ribbon Program, which aims to improve the post-deployment process and the care soldiers and families receive when returning from battle.

Col. Jeff Ireland, director of personnel and manpower, said four teams of soldiers and airmen will conduct the meetings over the next few weeks.

The public push continues the Guard’s efforts to change its deployment culture and raise awareness on the programs available around the clock to those who need help.

“We want to take this information to the people of Montana so they understand what levels and types of support are available to service members and their families before, during and after a deployment,” Ireland said.

The Guard made a similar effort last May when it sent similar teams to Libby, Glasgow, Lewistown, Great Falls and Belgrade.
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National Guard support-campaign helps vets, families