Col. Mark McClellan | U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood Commander | Mar 19, 2026
Army Emergency Relief (AER) has a proud tradition of Soldiers helping Soldiers. For every dollar
donated to AER, 89 cents directly assist Soldiers and families. The 2026 AER Campaign runs
from March 1 through June 14.
This year’s goals are straightforward and achievable: ensure 100% of Soldiers are informed
about AER and reach at least 20% participation among active-duty Soldiers.
Established in 1942, the same year Fort Hood was founded, AER remains essential to our
Army’s readiness and resilience. AER provides zero-interest loans and grants to Soldiers,
retirees and their families in times of genuine need.
Assistance commonly covers emergency travel, rent and utilities, food, vehicle repair and
medical or dental expenses. AER also offers education assistance for spouses and children.
Every case is assessed based on need, preserving dignity while delivering timely support.
AER directly supports Fort Hood through locally managed assistance that is responsive to our
installation’s requirements. With Fort Hood home to the Army’s largest concentration of 18- to
24-year-old Soldiers, AER is a critical safety net, especially for those encountering their first
financial challenge away from home.
The local AER team, aligned with Army Community Service Financial Readiness Program, helps
Soldiers build sound budgets, avoid predatory lenders and resolve crises before they affect the
mission.
AER is a commander’s tool. Unit commanders and first sergeants play a vital role in financial
readiness and can quickly connect Soldiers to AER when needs arise. AER counselors review
each situation to determine whether a zero-interest loan, grant or a combination is
appropriate; ensuring assistance fits the circumstance. Leaders set the tone: encouraging
Soldiers to seek help early is a mark of trust and professionalism, not weakness.
This campaign is about more than donations, it’s about awareness, prevention and readiness.
Leaders: brief your formations, dispel myths and make AER part of your unit’s battle rhythm.
Soldiers: learn what AER offers, share that knowledge with your battle buddies and if you are
able — give.
Retirees, civilians and family members can also contribute. Everyone can give at checkout at
stores across the installation or go online to the AER website. Together, we can ensure no
Soldier faces a financial emergency alone. That is the enduring promise of AER, and it’s how
Fort Hood continues to live the ethos of Soldiers helping Soldiers. For assistance or to donate
during the campaign, contact your unit AER representative, visit the installation AER office on
the second floor of the Shoemaker Center or visit
give.armyemergencyrelief.org/site/TR/Events/General?pg=team&team_id=1722&fr_id=1060