by John Megahed
H4H Feature Writer

"All is calm, all is bright. The Army National Guard is there, sleep well tonight."

Those words surround the all-time best-selling 2006 holiday season ornament developed for the Morale and Welfare Council for the Army National Guard Readiness Center. Proceeds from the ornament sales benefit the Army National Guard Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Program.

The inspiration for the design came from a March 2003 story in the Connecticut Guardian.¹ The photo accompanying the story features a uniformed Soldier with his unit, Company G, 104th Aviation Regiment, prior to leaving for Ft. Dix, New Jersey, to train and eventually mobilize in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The young girl would not let go of her father's hand as they stood together in formation on a cold blanket of snow. As evidenced in the image, a Soldier's heart and mind are never far from home. Likewise, the Family members of U.S. Soldiers are constantly thinking of their loved ones. This is especially true for servicemembers who are overseas during the holiday season.

The keepsake ornament commemorates the sacrifices and accomplishments of U.S. Army National Guard Families in this the 370th year. The recent past in Iraq and Afghanistan has not been without hardships, yet ARNG Soldiers continue to meet the challenges of wartime stress in the largest troop call-up since World War II.

During this holiday season, when emotions run high, remember the heroes. Remember the fallen Soldiers. Remember the protectors and the preservers of the peace. But most of all, remember the Families. The Families of Army National Guard Soldiers are the ones who provide support systems necessary for troops to be emotionally secure and of sound mind, body, and judgment.

Such acts of selflessness, generosity, and devotion are what give life in America its greatest and highest qualities. This country and her ideals thrive because of brave patriots like these. Each generation has leaders who step forward to do the most demanding work of a free society. We offer heartfelt thanks to Soldiers and Soldier Families for serving.

If you or someone you know is suffering the pains of separation from a loved one, refer to these online resources for assistance and information:

• Military OneSource
• Understanding the Cycle of Deployment
• Family Matters
• Benefits Signpost
• Army Well-Being Initiative

The HOOAH 4 HEALTH support team gratefully acknowledges the contributions of Ms. Karen Holly, ARNG Readiness Center, for the inspiration and materials used in the development of this story.

This article was reviewed and edited by Ms. Judith S. Harris, BSN, MA, and Certified Health Education Specialist.

¹Connecticut Guardian, VOL. 4 NO.3, Hartford, CT, March 2003.

Copyright 2006. This article may not be reproduced in any media format or venue without written permission.