Calvin Lovelace, a husband, father of two, and retired military veteran, has spent his life in service to others. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Calvin grew up in a family with a deep tradition of military service. His father served in the Navy during the Korean War and his older brother completed two tours in Vietnam. Following in their footsteps, Calvin joined the National Guard at 17 and went on to serve 31 years in the military, including a deployment to Afghanistan.
At 36, Calvin embarked on a new chapter, becoming an FBI agent in Miami in 2001. However, after the events of September 11th, he was mobilized from his Army Reserve unit and returned to active military duty. It was during this period, while serving as a Battle Captain with the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia, that Calvin experienced one of the most pivotal moments of his life.
Calvin’s father passed away while he was on active duty. Due to military protocols, Calvin couldn’t leave his post until the Red Cross verified the news and relayed it to his commander. Acting swiftly, the Red Cross confirmed the information with Calvin’s mother, allowing him to take leave and attend his father’s funeral.
“I flew out on a Friday, attended the funeral on Saturday, and returned Sunday,” Calvin recalled. “If it wasn’t for the Red Cross, I probably would have missed my father’s funeral. I’ll never forget that.”
The Red Cross, guided by a Congressional Charter, has served as the primary communications link between service members and their families during emergencies for nearly 140 years. From urgent messages relating to the health and wellness of family members to morale and welfare activities, the Red Cross has supported every major U.S. military deployment since its founding.
Calvin’s gratitude for the Red Cross never wavered. After retiring, he planned to take a year off to relax, but the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 changed his perspective. Feeling a renewed sense of purpose, Calvin decided it was time to give back. “I always felt like I had to do something for the Red Cross because they were there for me when I needed support,” he said.
Now a volunteer with the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program, Calvin dedicates his time to helping military members, veterans and their families. At events like veteran fairs, Calvin shares his story and spreads awareness about the Red Cross Hero Care Network, which provides 24/7 emergency communications and support.
“I tell every soldier and military family I meet: if you ever need help, call the Red Cross. They’ll be there for you,” he said.
Calvin’s military background gives him a unique ability to connect with service members. He understands their challenges because he’s lived them. At a recent event, he reassured a soldier preparing for deployment who was worried about missing the birth of his child. “I told him, go do your mission. If you or your wife need anything, the Red Cross will be here for you.”
Calvin shared that his military service taught him to be selfless and to give to others in need. For Calvin, volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about continuing a lifelong commitment to service.
Calvin’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of the Red Cross on the lives of military members and their families. Through programs like the Hero Care Network, the Red Cross ensures no service member stands alone in times of crisis.
As Calvin puts it, “I’m just trying to enjoy retirement and give back to an organization that helped me when I needed it most.”
You, too, can make a difference. Support the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program and help military families in their moments of need. Whether through volunteering, donating or spreading awareness, your compassion can change lives—just as it changed Calvin’s. Learn more at redcross.org/SAF.
Written by Stephanie Wesseling, American Red Cross Public Affairs