South Central Contributes $1,000 toward satellite dish for Beaver 222nd soldiers

(Escalante, Utah) South Central Communications contributed $1,000 to help purchase a satellite dish that will enable soldiers from the Beaver unit of the 222nd to phone home more often.
Don Willden, a South Central board member, presented the check to Amber Willden and Heidi Walbeck, whose husbands are serving in Iraq.
Amber explained, “The Army provides satellite phones for soldiers to use, but because there are so few phones and so many soldiers, the men don’t have many opportunities to call home. They stand in line for hours and their calls are limited to 20 minutes.”
Lois Willden, Amber’s mother-in-law has been spearheading the campaign to raise the $10,000 necessary to purchase the specialized satellite dish.
She said this is an example of private individuals, businesses and government leaders coming together to make life a little easier for the soldiers and their families.
Lois noted that while the Army provides some phones, many of the units that make up the 222nd have solicited funds from private sources to purchase additional satellite dishes and phones.
“The units from Cedar City and St. George have had these satellite dishes for quite some time because they have so many people who have made donations. We don’t have as many people in our area so it has taken us a little longer to raise the money. That’s why we appreciate this sizeable contribution from South Central Communications.”
Lois said about half the money came from private citizens and business and the balance came from contributions by Beaver and Garfield counties. “Private citizens, businesses and both county commissions have been wonderful to support our effort,” she said.
Heidi Walback is anxious to have the dish in operation. “I’m very proud of my husband and what
he’s doing, but it is difficult dealing with everything at home on my own. I need to talk with him about things.”
Heidi and Amber quickly admit the separation has been difficult on their families. They are also quick to acknowledge that support from their families and the community has been overwhelming.
Don Willden, South Central’s board member, emphasized the company is proud to be part of this effort. He pointed out that South Central currently provides free Internet service to the immediate families of 222nd servicemen to help them communicate between the United States and Iraq.