Red Cross assists Staff Sgt Dion with travel home

Staff Sgt James Dion arrived at Charlotte Douglas Airport at 10:30 am on Monday, December 29, 2009. This unexpected travel – and holiday gift for his family – is because Dion’s mother-in-law, Evelyn Barbee, is facing her final days. Mrs. Barbee, who is diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, suffered a broken hip on Christmas Eve. A request for the serviceman’s presence in North Carolina at first seemed impossible, but Saturday morning Debbie Dion learned her husband would arrive in Charlotte at 10:30 am on Monday morning. “My husband is so important to my mom, they are so close and his arrive will mean a great deal to her,” stated Debbie Dion. Friends of the family have made arrangements to pick up the Army Staff Sgt Dion at Charlotte Douglas Airport so Mrs. Dion’s family can stay at the side of her mother. Dion is currently serving a third tour of duty in Iraq and did not expect to receive approval for leave. The emergency request for travel was initiated by the American Red Cross staff in Cabarrus County as a result of Mrs. Barbee terminal condition and the complications of her broken hip. The American Red Cross facilitates emergency communications for military families 365 days of the year. This year’s Christmas Eve message is especially meaningful for both the family and the Red Cross. “We are always happy to support our military families in any way we can. But this message – and this family need – on Christmas Eve was especially meaningful,” stated Karen Long, Director of Response and caseworker on duty when the initial call was received. Service to Armed Forces staff & volunteer caseworkers provide 24 hour access to this important service to our community’s military families. Community members in need of assistance from the Red Cross can contact the American Red Cross of Cabarrus County by phone at 704.782.9022 or visit the offices at 167 Union Street South, Concord, NC, 28025