News Release - Etheridge Unveils Virtual Reservists' Support Center

News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

April 7, 2003

Contact: Sara Lang
Phone: (202) 225-4531

Etheridge Unveils Virtual
Reservists' Support Center

Website Provides Assistance for Reservists,
Opportunities for Supporting Troops

RALEIGH - As American troops fight for freedom overseas, U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) today unveiled a new virtual "Reservists Support Center" on Etheridge's website, www.house.gov/etheridge. The new site will serve as a one-stop informational portal for reservists and their families, providing information on health care, life insurance, employee rights, family support services, reservists' pay, education benefits and retirement procedures.

"I am pleased today to provide our National Guard Members, reservists and their families with this new resource on my website," Etheridge said. "Our reservists are the unsung heroes who go about their civilian lives while preparing to fight when called. With one click of the mouse, reservists and their family members will have all the information they need on everything from health care to retirement benefits right at their fingertips."

Etheridge also unveiled a "Support Our Troops Center," which provides opportunities for individuals to support the troops through e-mails, contributions and volunteering. North Carolinians can send e-mails to troops overseas through Operation Dear Abby at www.anyservicemember.navy.mil and virtual thank you cards through the Defend America website at http://www.defendamerica.mil/nmam.html. Donations can also be made to Operation USO Care Package, the American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services or any of the military relief societies. Individuals can also volunteer at their local VA medical center honor veterans who bore the lamp of freedom in past conflicts.

"I have heard from a number of North Carolinians who want to know what they can do to help and how they can support the troops," Etheridge said. "I hope you will join me in taking a few minutes to let these fine Americans and North Carolinians know how much we all value their sacrifice and their service. Now is the time for all Americans to join together to support our troops and their families."