By: Linn Behling Hughes

On Saturday, Jan. 24, 2025, Mason McAnear will pick up his packed bags, say his goodbyes to his family and dog, Charlie, and prepare for the long flight ahead. McAnear is heading to Iraq for a nine-month deployment with the American Red Cross, where he will serve alongside service members and provide them with Red Cross services and support.

McAnear joined the Red Cross North Texas Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) in January 2024 as a program specialist, knowing that he could be asked to deploy within his first two years. While deploying with the Red Cross is something new for McAnear, leaving his home to serve overseas is something the United States Air Force veteran has done before.

“As I prepare for my first SAF deployment, it feels both familiar and new,” McAnear said. “Having deployed globally with the Air Force, this time it’s about supporting military families through the American Red Cross, which adds a new layer of purpose.”

In preparation for his departure, he completed extensive training to ensure he was ready for the deployment, including two weeks in Indiana just prior to deploying. He also underwent additional training to learn how best to assist soldiers and their families.

Additionally, he coordinated with his volunteers, partners and coworkers to ensure they were aware of his deployment and worked to cover all his responsibilities while he is away. He also found accommodations for Charlie.

“I’m also making sure that my dog, Charlie, is well taken care of with my mom, and that everything else is in order before I go,” McAnear said.

For nearly 140 years, the Red Cross has supported every major U.S. military deployment and mobilization. Red Cross staff and volunteers help relay urgent messages about the health and wellness of family members, organize morale and welfare activities and work to ensure adequate care as needs arise. 

While the separation from his family and Charlie will be a challenge, McAnear knows that his work will positively impact the lives of service members and their loved ones.