By Barbara Fischer

In 2008, Navy and Army veteran Mike Allen experienced a devastating fire at his home in the Pittsburgh area. As he and his wife stood in the street and watched their home smolder, a woman from the American Red Cross came up to them and explained she was there to help.

A few years later, Allen was attending a community fair and met some Red Cross volunteers who were providing information about the Service to the Armed Forces program, which helps members of the military, veterans, their families and caregivers cope with the challenges of service. Allen decided it was time for him to give back and has spent his time since then volunteering with the Red Cross.

As a Service to the Armed Forces volunteer, Allen enjoys helping both active-duty military personnel and veterans. Much of his work takes place in health care facilities where he interacts with veterans to provide comfort and build morale. Allen’s volunteer work also involves meeting with enlistees and their families to share how Red Cross services can help before, during and after deployment. He also helps recruit volunteers.

Allen said his volunteer work with the Red Cross has given him insight into the problems facing veterans today, such as homelessness, economic hardship, physical issues and mental health challenges.

Allen joined the Navy in 1968 and was stationed on a nuclear submarine for four years. From 1979 to 2003, Allen served in the Army Reserve. Allen sees his volunteer work with the Red Cross and other veteran groups as a continuation of his service to our country.

Thank you for your service.