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“Nothing gets me more excited than VFW Operation Uplink™ surprising us with random free call days throughout the year.”
For Pfc. Andrew Mitchell, 22, VFW “Free Call Days” means more than just a phone call. It means a chance to share his experiences in the Army with his family … and save a few dollars in the process.
“As soon as I realize that calls will be free, I head for the SPAWAR phone room when I have any free time,” said Mitchell, a member of the “No Slack” battalion of the 1st Brigade Combat team, 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles.”
Mitchell always calls his wife Melissa, and if he has extra time, keeps in touch with other members of his family, reliving the “good old days.” Mitchell greatly appreciates the free calls VFW provides, and he makes it a point to see his comrades can enjoy them as well.
In the Army, Mitchell currently serves as a Food Service Specialist, taking his culinary skills learned at Kent State University to fellow service members. His role keeps him in contact with a large number of soldiers, and he has become somewhat of a spokesman of the free calls.
“I send the news all over. Every time soldiers come into my dining facility for some food, I let them know the phones are free so they can call the family.
“It [free calls] really makes a difference. Hearing voices from home is as soothing as it is motivating.” | 
