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Lt. Col. Ozzie Arroyo, 47, is a Combat Advisor with the Headquarters National Police Transition Team of the U.S. Army. After a 12-16 hour day, he looks forward to calling home.
Arroyo enjoys speaking to his wife and children on VFW “Free Call Days.” He has seen firsthand what it means to his fellow troops, too.
“We have no privacy at the phone and computer stations,” explained Arroyo. “Separated by only a piece of plywood, you can’t help but witness a variety of emotions.”
There’s laughter. There are tears. Sometimes even distress. Service members call home, letting loved ones know they are safe. Others reminisce about the past week, look ahead to the next deployment or ponder a re-enlistment.
“There are certainly some ‘Kodak’ moments,” said Arroyo.
No matter the conversation, Arroyo can see the change it brings to each service member.
“A soldier’s demeanor and performance are significantly influenced by support from the home front,” he said.
“A familiar voice makes us thankful for all our blessings and gives us hope that tomorrow will be a better day,” concluded Arroyo. | 
