A new video highlights American Red Crossers who are deployed with U.S. service members in Eastern Europe and showcases what it takes to fill these highly coveted roles. One of those featured in the video is San Diego-based Michelle Hagge, who has spent the past four months deployed with the American Red Cross in Romania as a member of Team 49, a unit of Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces personnel.
This type of support is nothing new for the American Red Cross. The organization has supported troops in every major conflict for more than 100 years — including World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. When the conflict in Ukraine escalated in February of 2022, this support continued and since that time nearly 70 trained staff have deployed to support troops by providing emergency communication messages and morale activities.
“One of my favorite days during deployment was when we celebrated national chocolate chip cookie day and I got to deliver cookies to the soldiers. These small touches remind service members of home,” said Hagge.
She says that the deployment was tremendously satisfying. “Looking back, I’m proud to say, ‘I did that. I supported the troops and I know how they feel.’ It’s important for me to make sure that the soldiers have someone there to take care of them — even when they don’t know that they need it,” Hagge said.
“The beauty is, I am a civilian. So, if you're interested in being able to have that extra little glimpse of it, this is the best job ever,” she said.
To learn more about how the Red Cross supports the military, visit here. Apply for one of these positions here.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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