DANVILLE, Ky. – The Kentucky National Guard is helping get food to people who have lost their jobs or are facing shortages due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Twelve Soldiers assigned to 138th Field Artillery Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB) worked with First Church of God at the host site of God’s Pantry Food Bank in Danville to prepare and distribute 190 boxes of food. Residents were able to drive up as Soldiers and church members loaded the boxes into their cars.
“Without the help of the Guard, we wouldn’t be able to support the" monthly food distribution, said Lois Pike, administrative assistant at the church.
The support Soldiers were able to give was satisfying to citizens and Soldiers.
“I’ve had the opportunity to live here my whole life,” said Sgt. 1st Class Joshua McElroy, medical section chief. “The people around me have given my family a good life and I figure I owe them whatever I can do to help.”
“Kentucky Army National Guard Soldiers are always ready to support our fellow citizens when the commonwealth is in need,” said Capt. Thomas Hobbs, commander of the 138th HHB. “It's always inspiring to see the men and women of our unit step up to serve, and our leadership team couldn’t be more proud of the way our Soldiers have conducted themselves during this challenging time.”
Soldiers from all across the state have been able to support their local communities during this pandemic.
“I grew up only 5 minutes from here,” said Spc. Robert Martin, fire control specialist. “So it’s a huge privilege knowing that I am giving back to the community that made me who I am today.”
“Before this, we were running 24-hour operations to support local law enforcement at several hospitals in and around Lexington,” said Spc. Kolton Helm, a medic. “Coming out here has given me a respectful feeling knowing it’s all about helping our neighbor, and I get to see firsthand what this means to them.”