Army Emergency Relief (AER)

Overview

Army Emergency Relief was established in 1942 as the official nonprofit of the U.S. Army. Michael A. Grinston serves as CEO while Gen. John F. Campbell chairs the board. The foundation provides financial assistance and educational support exclusively to soldiers, retirees, and their families. The portfolio allocates 40.47 percent to private equity alongside holdings in hedge funds, real estate funds, common and preferred stocks, U.S. Treasury securities, and corporate bonds. Geographic exposure centers on the United States with additional global private equity and hedge fund commitments. No specific named portfolio companies appear in public records. The organization maintains an investment portfolio valued near $355 million. It operates from a single headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. In March 2024 it sponsored the AER Annual Campaign Kickoff to raise funds for financial readiness programs. AER maintains a reciprocal assistance agreement with the American Red Cross and participates in the Military Aid Societies network that includes the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and Air Force Aid Society. Governance ties directly to active and retired Army leadership through its board structure.