Guard said it is prepared to deal with soldiers' loss

The deaths of four eastern North Carolina soldiers earlier this week marks the single largest combat loss for the state's National Guard since World War II, military officials said.

And with National Guard outfits composed of citizens from various towns and cities across the area, being prepared for such a great loss is real test - but one the Guard is prepared for, said North Carolina National Guard commander Maj. Gen. William E. Ingram Jr.

"The Guard is a very close-knit organization, and the loss of these brave men will leave a lasting impact on us all," he said.

The first step in preparing for the worst is to make sure information is assimilated accurately, National Guard officials said. To that end, a family readiness hot line has been established to get family members the most up-to-date information available when faced with possible tragedy, said Maj. Matthew Handley.

Each family who suffers the loss of a loved one is assigned two officers to assist with immediate concerns. A casualty assistance officer helps the family make funeral, travel and personal arrangements. A public affairs officer offers guidance to the family in dealing with the media in a time of great pain, said Tech. Sgt. Stephen Wilkens, a spokesman for the N.C. National Guard.

Family Readiness Groups, made up mostly of volunteers, have also been established to help families with all sorts off problems that can be encountered while a loved one is deployed, up to and including a casualty.

Each region has a family assistance coordinator who is responsible for connecting family members with any professional help they might need, including grief counseling, Wilkens said.

Contact Lindell Kay at 910-219-8456.