What is the primary purpose of AER?

The primary purpose of Army Emergency Relief (AER) is to relieve distress of Army members and their dependents. AER is a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to Army personnel and their families who face unexpected financial emergencies. This can include situations like medical expenses, rent, utilities, food shortages, and other urgent needs that may arise due to circumstances beyond the service member's control.

AER aims to ensure that Soldiers and their families have the support they require during challenging times, reinforcing the Army's commitment to taking care of its own. The organization achieves this by providing loans and grants, helping to alleviate financial burdens and allowing service members to focus on their duties without the added stress of financial insecurity. This foundational principle aligns closely with the overall mission of the Army to support its personnel and their families.

The other options do not capture the primary mission of AER. Providing legal assistance, collecting funds for parades, or offering recreational activities may be important aspects of military life, but they do not address the crucial need for immediate financial support that AER specifically targets.