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

American Red Cross recognizes veterans on 68th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor

Concord NC, December 7th - Dr. Hector Henry MD speaks to veterans and guests attending a dinner honoring the the 68th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. The dinner event was hosted by the American Red Cross, Cabarrus County and Crescent Heights Independent Retirement Living community. Approximately 60 people attended the dinner where the service of past and current service men & women was recognized. Mr Mike Barbee provided entertainment and Premier healthcare services and Crescent Heights provided each veteran with a care package.



Community members who would like to join the work of our volunteers in supporting service men, women and their families can join our chapter as a volunter. Enrollment and orientation information is available on the volunteer page of this website.