Friends of Cannon Families step in during times of need Published March 24, 2009 By Greg Allen 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. S -- It can happen to anyone. A phone call from the Red Cross gives you the bad news that there has been a death in the family. You need to get on an airplane immediately, but there is a glitch. You know that you can get a no-interest loan from the Air Force Aid Society, but you don't have the money for incidentals such as lodging if you have to wait for a connecting flight. That's where the Friends of Cannon Families steps in. This organization, headed by Cannon's first sergeants, steps up to the plate to help base Airmen in times of need. "We provide emergency assistance when Airmen face personal hardships such as a death in the family," said Senior Master Sgt. George Childers, 27th Special Operations Equipment Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. "The program is run by the First Sergeants' Council, and we kick in funds for Airmen who need help covering emergency costs," he continued. "The Friends of Cannon Families complements the Air Force Aid Society with support for Airmen, " said Capt. David Troxell, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal flight commander at Cannon. "The two organizations work hand-in-hand to serve Airmen. Captain Troxell, one of the project officers for this year's AFAS campaign, said that the AFAS mission is that of a non-profit organization to help relieve financial distress for Air Force members and their families. "Both organizations work together to help Airmen when the unexpected hits," he added. The Friends of Cannon Families program donates from $15,000 to $17,000 to Airmen yearly. The group is funded by non-profit organizations such as the United Way and the Combined Federal Campaign, which gave $2,000 and $6,000 last year. It also receives help from the community. The Cannon Federal Credit Union donated $5,000 last year and. The Friends of Cannon Families is currently funding a candy sale under way at Allsups convenience stores with all of the proceeds donated to the program. For more information on the Friends of Cannon Families program, call 693-6995.