A plea for help went viral on social media concerning a missing Soldier. Specialist Michaela Nelson reportedly went missing on October 26th, and her loved ones immediately began to worry.

Many were unsure of the accuracy of the claims, given the lack of media coverage. However, Pop Smoke Media obtained an official statement from Stephanie Beougher, the Public Information Officer for the Ohio Army National Guard:

“Spc. Nelson enlisted with the Ohio Army National Guard in September 2020 and her military occupation specialty is 56M (religious affairs specialist).

Spc. Michaela Nelson is a valued member of the Ohio Army National Guard’s Recruit Sustainment Program. Spc. Nelson’s family has filed a missing person’s report and anyone with information is urged to contact the Columbus Police Department at 614-645-4545. Our number one priority is ensuring she is found safe, and we will provide any assistance needed to her family and law enforcement.”

Although brief, the statement is a reflection of an ongoing investigation. Some details may not be ready for public release as of yet.

The statement does indicates the Ohio Army National Guard acknowledges the soldier is missing, and is willing to provide any assistance authorities require.

The spokesperson also elaborated the Recruit Sustainment Program “provides training and skills to help soldiers successfully complete basic and advanced Army training.”

Furthermore, “Once she (Spc Nelson) completes RSP, she would be assigned to another unit as a 56M.”

The training pipeline for National Guard soldiers is somewhat different than active duty troops. The soldiers may spend much less time in uniform, and under direct accountability of the military.

If you have any information, please contact local authorizes. Ohio State Highway Patrol can be contacted by clicking here.