U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific

BRADSHAW FIELD TRAINING AREA, Australia -- After a long day of training in full gear with temperatures breaking 100 degrees, there’s nothing quite like a cold drink.

A chilled refreshment can be hard to come by out in the field, but not when the Sallyman, short for Salvation Army man, drives his truck to training areas all over the Top End simply to deliver iced beverages and snacks to service members.

“It gives them a bit of a boost. Not just physically, but mentally as well,” said Arnold Beazley, Sallyman with the Salvation Army. “It increases morale when they get something cold to drink after training all day.”

Beazley started working for the Salvation Army more than 10 years ago. Throughout his time with the organization, his passion for giving back to those who serve has only grown.

“It’s always a good feeling to be the reason for a positive change in heart,” said Beazley. “It’s nice to get a smile out of the troops. They appreciate that small break from what they do.”

Thanks to funding from the military and donations from the service members, Beazley is able to keep his truck’s shelves stocked.

“I’m just out here to show my support for the troops,” he said.

The Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and Australian soldiers equally appreciate what the Sallyman does for them. Troops come running from all directions when they see Beazley approaching in his truck.

“We love it when he comes out, because he always brings cold water,” said Sgt. Rick Smoron, platoon sergeant, Weapons Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, MRF-D. “Whenever he comes by, Marines just jump up and yell, ‘it’s the Sallyman.’”

Beazley’s effort to travel wherever Marines and soldiers may be training has not gone unnoticed.

“He’s come out to every mission we’ve been on out here,” said Smoron. “We look forward to seeing the Sallyman whenever we’re in the field.”

If there is an exhausted and sweaty Marine or soldier training “out bush,” Beazley plans to be there with cold drinks and snacks, asking for only a smile in return.