“U.S. TROOP CARE PACKAGE”SUPPORT OUR U.S. TROOPS
COMMENTS FROM OUR TROOPS WHO HAVE RECEIVED A
“U.S. TROOP CARE PACKAGE”AND
COMMENTS FROM OUR GENEROUS DONORS
TROOP COMMENTS
2010
. . .”A little while back we received the care package treats you sent for us and the guys of the unit. Sorry I have not written sooner; it has (unfortunately) been very busy around here, and seems to get busier by the day as we move into summer. The main mission of our battalion is route clearance. Several platoons leave daily to clear surrounding roads around Afghanistan for other missions that need to travel on them without risk of being hit by an IED (Improvised Explosive Device, which are buried and set up on the road around the base). They (and I) are very grateful for the gifts you sent. Again, I was meaning to write sooner and kept your information but then we have a huge increase in activity and I was sidetracked.
We put the treats we receive at the Aid Station out for our guys. They often come here after long missions to relax and dig through any treats we might have available. So again, thank you. It was very kind. Very thoughtful. Enclosed are pictures. One is of me when we first got to Afghanistan in January (we are halfway through the deployment!). Believe me, it’s not snowing now. The other is of a medic I work with, with one of the medevac helicopters that fly into all kinds of crazy conditions to pick up injured soldiers. Anyway, thanks again and Godspeed. Very Respectfully.” (8/10) Spc Murphy
. . .”It was a shower of blessings for our Soldiers to receive the care packages you and your team prepared and sent to us. On behalf of Lt. Col. Beiger and the rest of the 4-9IN Battalion, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your hard work, love, and support. There are not enough words that can express the unconditional love you have in supporting our Soldiers. We also thank you for your prayers. You and your loved ones are in our prayers as well. May God continue to enrich your hearts and bless you with good health and prosperity. Thank you and God bless.” (7/10) Cpt Tupuola
. . .”Hello, this is Spc Berger here at FOB Boris. We just received the care packages you sent us and we would just like to let you know how grateful we are for your support. It’s people like you all that make our deployments easier and more enjoyable. Thank you again." (7/10) Spc Berger
. . .” Thank you very much for the Care Package. It means so much to us here to receive a little taste of home every now and then. I shared some of the contents with some soldiers going through hard times and want to thank you again on behalf of them. We appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness very much. God bless you.” (6/10) Cpt Demberger
. . .” Thank you for the letters and snacks. It really brings a smile to our faces when we receive these packages. There is not much to do out here so the packages really help ease the time. Well anyways I have to get back to my duties and again thank you for your kindness.” (5/10) LCPL Derby/Chapel
. . .”Hope you don’t mind, I took a pocket flag, unfolded it, and now have it displayed for all to see. Me and my buds are very grateful for the thoughts and gifts you provide all over here. God Bless you!!” (5/10) Maj Standridge
. . .”Thank you to a very caring group. Thank you so much for the fabulous care package. It truly was a boost in all of our spirits to receive mail on the ship. I can’t tell you how much it meant. Thank you again.” (4/10) LTJG Gawrys-USNS COMFORT
. . .”I just wanted to take the opportunity to say thanks for the recent care packages my unit received. I am the First Sergeant for a group of 31 Airmen deployed to Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Conditions here are very basic and the care packages were a great moral boost. I’m sending you a photo to show you what your hard work is doing in the field. For added morale, I made a rule that for every item an Airman takes from the box, he has to do 5 push-ups. It’s just added fun. Thanks.” (2/10) CMSgt McClaughlin
. . .”I can’t thank you guys enough, it was all candy and all of us here loved it. Thanks again.” (2/10) TSgt Garber
. . .”Cpt Phillips and I would like to thank you for the care packages the U.S. Troop Care Package organization have sent to soldiers deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom; these packages warm the soldiers sprits and are greatly appreciated. It is always hard for soldiers to pack their bags and leave family and friends, yet kind words of support and appreciation from proud Americans always seems to lessen the burden. Just to give you some information about the soldiers that you helped cheer up this holiday season. We are an Army Aviation Battalion deployed from Katterbach, Germany to a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in western Afghanistan called Shindand. FOB Shindand is a small austere FOB about 50 miles from the Iranian border.
Our primary mission is to provide Air MEDEVAC support to western Afghanistan, air transport of troops and supplies to remote FOBs, humanitarian operations, and aviation maintenance. We have currently been deployed since Christmas and hope to return home to our friends and family before Christmas 2010 (we are keeping our fingers crossed at least). Thank you again! If you would like to continue to send cards, hygiene items, snacks, stationary, or anything else it would be greatly appreciated, especially since we do not have any PX/BX (or store) here on FOB Shindand. Therefore, we have opened a free PX that distributes hygiene items and snacks, which we receive from care packages to the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of FOB Shindand.” (2/10) Cpt Phillips, 1SG Bartley
. . .”I would like to thank this wonderful organization for sending me a Care Package on December 14, 2009. It is an honor serving my country here in Iraq and having thoughtful citizens back home thinking of me and all of the soldiers deployed. God Bless.” (2/10) Cpt McCoy
. . . “Thank you for the Care Package and supporting the troops. All we ask is that you keep us in your prayers and you have done more than that. We can’t thank you enough. Happy New Year!” (1/10) 1LT Sikorra
. . . “I would like to thank you so much for the package. I shared a lot of the items in the package but kept the pillow for myself. I plan on using it on the plane when I go home on leave next month. Thank you so much for all of the support. Thanks for the game.” (1/10) SSG Fox
. . . “I just wanted to write and thank everyone for the Care Package. I shared most things to help other people out as well. One of my favorite things that came in the box was the pillow though. I definitely enjoy resting my head on my pillow. Plus it has a tag stitched on it so I can always remember who I received it from. Happy New Year to everyone in the states.” (1/10) PO1 Delbo
. . . “My name is Balog. I am a Lt serving with the 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan. I’ve been here 8 months with 6 more to go. Life over here is quite boring and lonely as you can imagine. Its great to hear from the folks back home especially at the holiday season. I was very surprised and excited to get a Care Package from you with so many useful things. Thank you again! May God Bless you all.” (1/10) Lt. Balog
. . . “Thank you for supporting the troops and sending us letters and care packages. It means a lot to the soldiers knowing you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.” (1/10) 1lt Sikorra
. . . “I received your care package a couple of days ago. I wanted to say thanks to all the people who make this possible. We don’t have a PX or anything so that package goes a long way here. Thanks again for your time and support.” (1/10) SPC Barker
. . . “Thank you for the care package!! It helps with the passing of the holidays. We appreciate all the kind words and items placed; they’ll go to good use!! I’d also like to thank the cub scouts for making the book mark from Pack 202. Thank you again!” (1/10) MSGT Jones (Qatar Money enclosed)
2009
. . . “Thank you so much for the thoughtful Care Package. I would like you to know that it was enjoyed by many soldiers. We are a National Guard Unit from Ohio, mostly Cav Scouts and Infantry with a Mle Size support platoon. Trust me when I say we all felt the love and support you packed into the box! Thanks again.” (12/09) SPC Baker
. . . “Thank you for supporting the troops. I enjoyed your poem. May God Bless you and your family this holiday season as we celebrate the birth of Christ. Thank you for supporting your husband as he served honorably in the USAF. I am part of the USAFR Nurse Corps. God bless you and Thanks.” (12/09) CPT Hall
NOTE: This letter was addressed to a person whose letter was enclosed in our Care Package.
. . . “Thank you for supporting the troops! May you be blessed as we celebrate a day of thanksgiving, the birth of Christ and a New Year! God Bless You!” (12/09) Cpt Hall
NOTE: This letter was addressed to a person whose letter was enclosed in our Care Package.
. . . “Hi, my name is SRA Bond, I am in the Air Force and have the privilege of working with the missiles and bombs. I am from Iowa and I am currently in Iraq. I would like to personally thank you for sending that embarrassing story you turned into a poem. I really enjoyed reading it and I could just picture that colle tion plate rolling to the feet of the pastor. HaHa!! You have quite the talent for writing poems I see. I bet God laughed and had a big kick out of it. I hope you returned next Sunday! It certainly sounds like your husband is a Great Man and I’m sure that makes you a Great Woman. Thank you again for writing and sharing that poem with us. I hope this letter is proof that your kindness does not go unnoticed. God Bless You and Your Friend in Christ.” (12/09) SRA Bond
NOTE: This letter was addressed to a person whose letter was enclosed in our Care Package.
. . . “I wanted to say thank you for the key ring ornaments. These deployments aren’t or isn’t as bad as the last two...but I want to thank you for your support and I wish you and your family the best...if you would can you send my kids a few letters and tell them you appreciate them as well. It would mean the world to me. Thanks.” (12/09) SSG Mosley
. . . “Thank you for supporting the troops during the holiday season!j It means a lot to the soldiers. Have a wonderful holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.” (12/09) 1LT Skiorra
. . . “I would like to send a Thank You to all of you for the wonderful care package you sent me. I am thankful for all your support and thoughts especially at this time of the year. I hope everyone of you has a Happy Holiday and again Thank you from myself and all of my co-workers.” (11/09) TSGT Drury
. . . “I just want to say thank you for the time, money, and dedication that you put into sending out all the Care Packages to those serving in the military. I can speak for not just myself but, many others and say we are truly grateful for the support.” (11/09) SSGT Sims
. . . “I waited to wish a Merry Christmas to the Blue Mountain Council Cub Scouts who put together packages for soldiers during their day camp in June 08, Pack #133. All the soldiers that you send packages to are very very grateful even the ones who may not get a chance to write back! Please pass on a special thanks to Stan Session for the patriotic bookmark! Also, I received a very nice letter from a Liah Johnson who goes to school at Martha Vineyard Elementary in Ponchatoula, LA. I have enclosed a picture of my unit who are all stationed with me in Iraq. Thank you very much and take care!” (11/09) SSGT Sims
. . . “Thank you for supporting the troops! God bless you this special season as we celebrate the birth of Christ. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.” (11/09) Capt Hall
. . . “Thank you “Courage IG” for all your support! thank you again.” (11/09) SFC Brown
. . . “I just wanted to say thank you for the care packages sent by your organization to the Marines of MAG 26 here in Iraq. It is wonderful to receive these items from home, and to know the citizens of our great country still have us in their thoughts and prayers. These items were very well received, especially the pocket flags – very nice. God Bless and thanks again!” (10/09) LtCol Crisafulli
. . . “How are you? I received a Care Package today with a small note from you. It really made my day! Just so you know, I am writing from Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. You would be so proud of the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen. I know I certainly am. Thank you so much for taking the time to include a little something special! Semper Fidelis!” (9/09) Cpt Fulton
NOTE: This letter was addressed to a person whose letter was enclosed in our Care Package.
. . . “I am currently serving in Iraq for the U.S. Air Force. Recently I received a very thoughtful care package filled with many useful and thoughtful things inside. Also, I found your name on a piece of paper and wanted to take the time to say thank you to each and every person whop put their thought, time, and prayers into this loving package. Your care has made me smile and feel so very blessed. May God Bless You.” (8/09) 1st Lt Merritt
NOTE: This letter was addressed to a person whose letter was enclosed in our Care Package.
. . . “On behalf of the Paratroopers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, thank you for your thoughtful care package. The items you sent will be a morale boost for many young Paratroopers who live and work far from the comforts of home. It is good for them to know that people such as yourselves support them.
As the last true airborne division in the world’s most feared Army, the temptation is to think that we can successfully defend America’s freedoms by human power. However, Proverbs 21:30-31 reminds us, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” As the Panthers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team help the Iraqis bring order to their country by encouraging those who do good and bringing to justice those who pursue evil, we ask that you would remember us in your prayers. Again thank you for your generosity. May the Lord bless you as you have blessed us! Airborne! All the Way! H-Minus! In His Hands.” (3/09) Maj Jaedicke, Chaplain (“Holy Panther”)
. . . “Please pass my deepest thanks to all involved in the U.S. Troop Care Package operation. We could not succeed in our mission abroad without the support of Patriots like you back home. The U.S. has the most effective fighting force the world has ever seen. The only hope that the enemy has for any measure of victory is to undermine American public support for the mission. It's you and others like you who defend this most-important front. You continue to stand fast against the onslaught of agenda-driven misinformation from both the enemy and from the more easily misled among us who, either foolishly or maliciously, seek to obstruct our mission; which inescapably advances the enemy's cause.
By countering their efforts to divide and dissuade Americans, you preserve the strength of collective national resolve that allows the military to do its part. Your selfless contribution of time, goods, and effort; and your unfaltering moral support throughout this conflict have made victory increasingly feasible. Your sacrifice increases the likelihood that an oppressed people half-a-world away, whom you may never even meet, will experience the hope, self-respect, and limitless possibilities of a free society.
We troops are sometimes described as heroes for what we do, and it is a deeply moving attribution. But without you we would likely have been pulled home by now, unsuccessful in our objectives and leaving behind a rejuvenated and exuberant enemy to take their revenge on those who stood up to side with America and Freedom; the world a more dangerous place and American national security at increased risk. Your courage in the face of sometimes overwhelming opposition and your persistence through the fickle tides of public opinion have been absolutely essential to our cumulative successes and to ultimate victory for America and for our allies. You are certainly America's unsung heroes. God bless you, and thank you for what you do.” (3/09) Maj Way
. . . “On behalf of my entire unit, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to you all for your support, words of encouragement, and care packages. Words are not enough to articulate our heartfelt appreciation and gratefulness for your unwavering support and care, let me simply say that my men and women are deeply touched by your high regards. Thank you all of you, especially the young children who sacrifice their play time in order to write, color, and design thank you cards to send to us, complete strangers. I would like to let you all know that your support has not gone unnoticed and that knowing that you stand behind us has greatly contributed to our effort here. I prayed a very special blessing upon you and your whole crew, may you and yours be prosperous in all your endeavors. May you be safe and healthy. May the Lord watch over you all. Again, thank you very much for your undying support. We greatly appreciate you.” (1/09) Cpt Saint-Val, Chaplain
. . . “Thank you very much for your holiday care package! The toiletries and snacks were greatly appreciated – you obviously put a lot of work into packing every inch of the box – thanks for all your effort! To me and so many others working in much harsher conditions, the support of everyone back home makes all the difference in the world! Thanks once again! Happy New Year and God Bless you All!” (1/09) Major Martin
. . . “Thank you so much for the package. Sandy from Texas, Tom & Ev, Bobbie and B. Scott. It came in just before Christmas and brightened our spirit. Thank you so much for your support and we can’t do what we do without your support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and keep up the great work. Happy Holidays!” (1/09) SSG Vera
2008
. . . “Just wanted to say thank you for the delightful care packages you all send. I appreciate the folks doing all the work behind the scenes. Thank you for your service.” (12/08) Pleinis
. . . “I am currently deployed on the USS Iwo-Jima and I have received a package from you. I was just wanting to say thank you for thinking about me during the holidays and thank you for everything you do for everyone. Hope you had a Merry Christmas and hope you have a Happy New Year. Once again, thank you and God Bless.” (12/08) Cpl Tatum
. . . “I received one of your Patriotic pillows when I deployed back in 2006 and it has served me well during this deployment and several previous trips. Thank you very much for taking the time to make and send these pillows to the troops. Several people have expressed interest in the pillows and are interested in receiving something similar for their trips into Iraq and Afghanistan. I’m currently stationed at one of the major passenger hubs for deploying and returning troops, and would be willing to ensure the pillows are given to the deploying troops during our upcoming troop movement.” (12/08) MSgt Cook
. . . “Thank you for the Care Package that was sent to Walter Reed Hospital. You are great Americans.” (11/08) MSG Paz
. . . “I am writing to thank you for your prayer squares. I just received a box from you. Inside of my box was a prayer square and a card from you. Thank you for the heart square. More importantly, thank you for your time and energy that went into making it. I have placed it in my uniform pocket. It has become a part of my uniform. Every time I place it in my pocket, I will think of you. When my deployment is over, I will place it in my deployment scrapbook. Thanks again.” (11/08) Cpt Hudson
NOTE: Buckland United Church of Christ in Buckland, OH sent us a number of “Prayer Squares” in 2006, which we forwarded to the troops. The idea caught on and since that time many others have made the “Prayer Squares” some in the shape of hearts. The “Prayer Squares” are 2 ½” X 3 ½” in size, knitted or crocheted and contain a card that reads: There are prayers stitched in every square for comfort, encouragement, love, and hope for your safety and well-being. When you feel lonely or need comfort, reach for me in your pocket. You are not alone-God and our prayers are with you always. God Bless and Much Love.
. . . “We got the packages about a week ago. They was very nice, they had a lot of good stuff in them. Thanks again and talk back with you soon tell your friends thank you for the packages also like I say they were very joyful and had very nice things in them.” (11/08) Sgt Jensen
. . . “I want to thank you for the wonderful Care Packages I have received while in Iraq. I am able to share with my office and battle buddies. I especially enjoyed the letters from the children in school and appreciate the school’s addresses. I have sent the students a note at their schools and hope it reaches them. I appreciate your efforts to make our days just that much brighter. I want to specifically thank Ev in Washington State, Lem E. Dickey, Herma Day, and Suzanne Welton for the wonderful Care Package I received. If you could let them know that I appreciate their time, effort, generosity and prayers, I would greatly appreciate it. I hope to be home in December for Christmas. God Bless.” (10/08) Maj Pleinis
. . . “Your box of goodies arrived safely to Iraq. Please send along a big thank you to the Nickson family for sponsoring it. Our Seabees always appreciate boxes from the U.S. It is a wonderful reminder that people like you really care! Blessings from the desert.” (9/08) Chaplain Dieter
. . . “Thank you so much for writing to me. This summer I am attached to the US Army’s 224th Area Support Medical Company here at Contingency Operating Base Adder, located on the Tallil Air Base in Iraq, south of Baghdad. This is my fourth mission in Iraq. It is really hot here, over 120 degrees in the afternoons and the wind constantly blows the fine tan dirt at us, quite uniform in color. There is no sand in this desert; that is a big misconception. Blowing dust storms sound like rain outside our CHUs – a comforting sound when you are inside. We drink a lot of bottled water to keep from getting dehydrated. We are all wearing the new generation of the fire resistant Army Combat Uniform (ACU). I still carry an M9 Beretta. We have to wear our assigned weapon everywhere we go, including to chow at the DFAC (Dining Facility), and even to Chapel services, where I went this morning.
My job as a Christian Family Practice physician from Birmingham, Alabama, is to take care of sick and injured soldiers and civilian contactors in our Outpatient Clinic and Emergency Department. We have twelve MDs and Pas to take care of a base population of 11,000. Two weeks ago I was on a mission to CSC Cedar II, which was pretty enjoyable. The food was very good there, the work was light, and I slept better. Do to your prayers, we have not had any mortar or rocket attacks hit anything on this base since I arrived in May. We appreciate prayers for our safety and for the success of our mission! Please pray for yourself first, though, so God can hear your prayer for us.
Years ago I prayed this way: “Lord Jesus, I need you. Forgive my sins. Come into my heart and take control of my life. Make me the kind of person you want me to be. Thank you for hearing my prayer. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.” When you pray this prayer and mean it, Jesus will come into your heart, you become a child of God, and God gives you eternal life. It will be wonderful to see you in Heaven, if not before! If you wish, you can write to me. Let me know if you prayed the prayer. Thanks again for your concern and support. God loves you a lot and I love you too. Thanks so much for the wonderful care package! Everyone enjoyed getting something! (9/08) COL Cosby
. . . “Thank you for the wonderful package that you sent to me here in Iraq. God Bless you all. (7/08) CW3 Schnell
. . . “Thank you so much for your gift of toiletries, snacks, pillows, and games. May God richly reward you for the compassion you hold for our warriors, and for your concern for their personal needs. Your rare benignity and love has made a monumental difference in the day to day lives of our service members. Your selfless charity has elevated the morale of deployed military personnel reminding them of the felicities of home. On behalf of our entire chapel staff thank you for your friendship and generosity.” (5/08) Lt. Col Ziccardi, Wing Chaplain
. . . “I don’t know how many of these you receive but I would like to take the time to recognize you all for your thoughtful service to the men and women of the armed services. I recently received one of your care packages through my mother-in-law Patty Thomas who signed me up. You all do a wonderful job of supporting the troops and many times it goes unheard of. I just want you to know that I appreciated your package and nothing is going to waste. Being deployed is hard on families, but knowing that there are people in the United States that support the U.S. Soldier makes it worthwhile. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do.” (4/08) SFC Collison
. . . “I got and am using one of those neck cool ties, the ones with the gel in them...I am in Iraq and its been in the 100’s and it has come in handy more than you can ever imagine!!! Thank you so much for taking awesome care of us.” (4/08) Rooks
. . . “I’m writing on behalf of my unit, the Virginia Army National Guard 429th BSB to thank you for the recent care package. It was on behalf of the Miska family so thanks to them as well. We use and recycle everything we get here so know that the gift was appreciated. The weather is starting to get worm here, soon it will be up to 120 degrees by day. Our unit is rotating out soon, so I’m glad I’ll miss the worst of that. Hope all is well with you and your organization back home; we’ll be with you soon.” (4/08) Spc O’Brien
. . . “Thank you so much on behalf of the 54th QM Co., Ft. Lee, VA. My name is Kerry and my 7 cohorts and I are in our 4th month in Baghdad. We received a package for another soldier and you graciously offered it to us. We appreciate your kindness. Thank You.” (4/08) Spc Robinson and the 54th
. . . “Thank you for sending the snacks and supplies. I shared with quite a few guys here at FOB Hope who want to say thanks as well. We all are thankful and happy with all the support we get from back home. Thanks again and God Bless.” (4/08) Sgt. Heilman
. . . “We received the boxes of Neck Coolers (500). They are great!! Thank you so much for sending them and supporting us here. Your generosity is much appreciated. Thanks.” (4/08) SFC Leahy
. . . “My name is Andrea and I am an Army wife. My husband is currently in Iraq and one of my FRG leaders sent me the link to your site. I just wanted to say thank you so much for what you are doing. I’m new to the whole military thing (this is my husband’s first deployment) and the whole thing is very difficult, and extremely stressful. I can’t even begin to tell you how good it made me feel when I went to your site and found out about what you are doing for our troops and soldiers like my husband. It means so much to me to know that there are other people out there who really care about them. So I’m sorry if this email seems silly, but I just wanted to express my gratitude to you for what you are doing. Thank you.” (3/08) Wife of a soldier
. . . “I recently found your site and really appreciate everything you are doing. I know how busy it must keep you because I used to be at the post office everyday sending my husband things until a few personal things happened recently and I haven’t been able to go as often since. I’ll get you out a donation soon though. I just wanted to say thank you for everything.” (3/08) Wife of a soldier
. . . “I am now the proud owner of 45,000 Tea Bags, courtesy of the Dragon Pearl Whole Teas out of Grover Beach, CA as well as from Tadin Quality Herbs & Teas from the City of Commerce, CA that were donated to our soldiers here in Iraq. WOW!!!!!!!!!! I just want to let you know that I received your 10 boxes today here at LSA Anaconda; and your generous donation will be greatly appreciated by the thousands of troops that file through our transient housing area monthly. I can guarantee that this tea will not only be enjoyed, but will be appreciated by all. Rest assured that the tea will be distributed to those in which you intended. So, on behalf of all of those, soon to be “Tea Drinkin” soldiers, thank you from the bottom of my heart.” (2/08) Cummings
. . . “On behalf of the Marine Security Guard Detachment, we would like to say thank you for your support. We just received our first Care Package from you all and we deeply appreciate it.” (2/08) Sgt. Jimenez
. . . “It truly amazes me how much kindness has been sent our way from everyone at U.S. Troop Care Package. I have received several packages and got some more today. Wow, I am dumbfounded and speechless. The support displayed by so many of our fellow Americans means the world to us. This is a reflection for our sincere gratitude. Thanks for the personal hygiene products. Thanks for the snacks. The items you sent brought a special smile to my soldier’s faces that I haven’t seen since we deployed a few months ago. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, I don’t think I can say that enough. We really do appreciate you all. May God bless you all and our beloved Country!” (2/08) CPT Akinbayo
. . . “I received the packages yesterday afternoon on mail call. My soldiers were impressed about your donations and packages. They did not let me spread out all the items but they got what they needed. I was not able to take pictures this time but for the next time I will take them so you can see the difference you guys made for us. Thanks a lot for your time and effort. The soldiers will be good with the items for about a month or so. For my soldiers, 7 out of 10 soldiers, this is the first time deployment and they were not expecting that. I got my share and they were glad to see that some good Americans care for soldiers. On behalf of myself thanks for the gift. I will contact later again. Keep up the good work and keep the soldiers moral up.” (2/08) SGT Oquendo
. . . “I want to thank you personally for supporting the troops in a very big way. Appreciate the time and effort you put into this. This means so much to the troops over in KOSOVO. Thanks again for the SUPPORT!” (2/08) SSG Fuller
. . . “Thank you for all your support and thoughtful gifts. I gave your box to my Marines and it was like Christmas morning, only in Iraq. Thank You.” (2/08) SSGT Grantham
. . . “I recently received a Care Package from your organization from the Hallmark Gift Shop in Milton, WA. I just wanted to write a short note thanking them and your organization for making the effort in sending the packages that you do. I appreciate the items packed and the card that was enclosed from the Hallmark Staff. Thank you again.” (2/08) MSGT Webb
. . . “My name is Sgt. Michelle J. Crow stationed out of MCAS Miramar, CA and I am not sure if this is the correct E-Mail address to send this to but I would just like to thank all of the volunteers for their time and support. It is people like you that we fight for and are proud to serve. God bless you all and God bless America. Thank you all, you’ll never know how much receiving a care package means to us.” (2/08) Sgt. Crow
. . . “I just received your package today! Thank you very much, everything was very thoughtful and needed. I really appreciate the handmade items it really shows your appreciation. It makes me happy and proud to see us Americans sticking together. Once again thank you for everything. P.S. I have a friend that is in need if you would like to help him his address is the same as mine.” (1/08) York
. . . “I would like to thank you all for the “heartfelt” care package I received this week. I am nearing the end of my one year “remote” tour in Korea and will be returning to my wife and 3 boys in February. I really appreciate everyone who contributed to this awesome “morale boosting” gift, specifically the “cool tie” and folded pocket flag. The toughest part of any deployment is the separation – so anytime we get mail or something from home it’s an awesome thing. To open a box filled with love and kindness like the one I just got really makes serving our country worthwhile. I appreciate your support and all you do for our country as well, may God bless you all.” (1/08) TSGT Gregaitis
. . . “Thank you for assembling and shipping out the care package. It was received with gratitude. My crew and I have enjoyed the contents and whatever we have left over or what we do not need, we hand out to the troops we transport into and out of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa. Thank you once again for supporting us, especially during this time of year when we are all away from friends and family.” (1/08) CPT Pavlansky
. . . “To whom it may concern - I’d like to say Thank you for acknowledging the troops the way you do. It touches me to no end to see what you do and the difference you make. You see my name is Mike Mason and I am a contractor in Kuwait, supporting the U.S. Army as they head towards Iraq and Afghanistan and it is the best feeling in the world. I will have supported the U.S. Army for 4 years as of February 1st, 2008 and get goose bumps knowing that I really make a difference. You and you’re team should be so proud of the Army here in Kuwait, what a fine group of men and women who are so genuine, professional and focused on their jobs. It is truly a great feeling and what a heartfelt feeling to be able to say “I AM AN AMERICAN,” as I support the awesome power that is the U.S. Army . . . Great Job.” (1/08) Michael Mason
2007
. . . “Thank you for your support.” (12/07) Speck Benitez
. . . “Thank you for assembling and shipping out the care packages. It was received with gratitude. My crew and I have enjoyed the contents and whatever we have left over or what we do not need, we hand out to the troops we transport. Thank you once again for supporting us, especially during this time of year when we are all away from friends and family.” (12/07) Capt Paviansky
. . . “Thank you very much for the kind care package you sent. Was very thoughtful and very much appreciated by my soldiers and I. We know that your thoughts and prayers are with us every day and thank you for taking the time to show how much you care. God Bless You!” (12/07) Lt. Col Ingram
. . . “Thank you so much for your contribution to the deployed troops. With your donations you have contributed towards 2,000 pounds of supplies to the FOB (Forward Operating Base) project started by the Panther Airman Advisory Council located at Balad AB, Iraq. By collecting donations, from different agencies on and off base, we pack up boxes of hygiene products, food, magazines, books, etc. and send the supplies to our fellow soldiers, airmen, marines and sailors located at these bases that do not have the accommodations that some deployed bases have. You are making a difference by boosting the morale in the deployed troops. We personally thank you for your contributions and consideration towards the deployed troops.” (12/07) Panther Airman Advisory Council
. . . “Thank you for your outstanding support to all of us. The men and women of the “Screaming Eagles,” a C-130 Airlift Squadron from Abilene, Texas, truly enjoyed receiving your stockings the other day. It is never easy to be away from friends and family, but especially during this time of year, it really becomes foremost in our minds. Your well wishes really went a long way to emphasize to all my airmen that there are patriots out there, such as yourselves, thinking of them and all that they do. I know you may not always receive a letter back about the impact you have on the troops, but let me tell you it’s immense. The smiles on their faces are priceless from all of us over here, please tell everyone thank you, we really appreciate it.” (12/07) Lt. Col Zick
. . . “Thank you very much for what you have sent to us so far. I have received 22 boxes out of the 30. I appreciate it greatly. Take care and will write when I get a chance.” (12/07) SSG Fuller
. . . “I wanted to inform you that we received the other 4 wonderful boxes from your organization. Once again I cannot begin to tell you how much your generosity has touched the members of our small unit here. We are 83 personnel deep and we do not have easy access to many of the necessary items to make it through a normal day. I have attached a photo of the 500 strong that we have scattered throughout the AOR (Area of Operation). I am the first sergeant and the medic so in some small way you are still taking care of the medical community. Thank you again for your generosity and it is people like you that make the whole experience a little easier to deal with.” (12/07) MSGT Sheffield
. . . “Thank you for the update. I am very happy that we have organizations like yours that takes care of our troops. Ya’ll are to be commended on a daily basis. Thank you.” (12/07) Capt. Wozniak
. . . “Just wanted to let you know we received the packages today. We really appreciate the extra effort and all the stockings you sent. I gave your address to my commander who will in turn be sending a thank you from the squadron. Thanks again.” (12/07) Major Cyrus
. . . “Thank you for your care packages, it really makes our day. I will be on my way home soon but we will be leaving some fellow soldiers behind. Please forward a care package to them.” (12/07)
. . . “Thank you so much for the treats, toiletries, etc. We received four boxes from your organization this week and distributed them to the troops. It’s always nice to get mail from friends and family, but most touching when people like you take the time to put together thoughtful care packages. They arrive unexpectedly to brighten the day here at FOB Hammer (though some would argue it’s bright enough out here in the desert!); not only are the treats delicious and the other items necessities, but it means a lot that an organization we don’t even know supports us and wishes us well. So you know, your presents went to my detachment of Airmen from the 557 Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron, a heavy construction unit comprised of engineers and craftsmen from all over the country. Right now we’re deployed for six months in support of the Army, constructing facilities and roads for the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division so they can operate from something a little more reliable than tents and dirt paths! It’s rewarding work; our base has come a long way since we arrived. Thanks again for your generosity. Hope you have a safe winter and God Bless!” (12/07) MSGT Sheffield
. . . “I wanted to thank you for the continued support you send to may unit. I am often asked by people back in the states why we do what we do. They ask me about being away from home, or the lack of comforts, or the mission usually couched with “I don’t know how (or why) you all do it.” I usually write back and tell them about the conditions here in Iraq, or tell them of the oppression I have seen or of the children’s faces filled with happiness and hope, or the trash and sewer in the streets. I tell them that we are winning this fight (because I truly believe we are!) and regardless of why people think we were sent here . . . we are here now and we are here to find terrorist and defeat them and we are here to leave Iraq better than when we found it. Nothing else matters to us now.
I want to share a story with you. This weekend I was sitting talking to one of my troopers about re-enlisting. He is a positive kid, 4 years in the Army, motivated to his task, dedicated to those around him. I expected he would re-enlist and would require little convincing. As we were talking about his options and his motivation to soldier he said “Sir, I am staying in the Army and I will be happy continuing to do what I do. But I am not motivated by the words you say, or the money in the bonus, or for my buddies, or by the feeling I have being a Paratrooper. I do it for my kids and my wife and what my job means to them and their future.”
He then handed me a tattered copy of the poem below. He said when he was here for the invasion he was a brand new private and it was sent to him in a forward e-mail or something. He has had it ever since and has never shown it to anybody but his wife. As I read it, it hit me like a bag of bricks. I thought I would share it with you. I have typed it exactly as it was on the copy he gave me and I have given credit to the author so I believe you would be free to share this story and poem with anyone you like. I thank God everyday for giving me the opportunity to lead America’s Sons and Daughters and I pray I am doing it right. May God continue to bless the American Soldier!” (11/07) CPT Harvey
POEM
The things that make a Soldier great and send him out to die,
To face the flaming cannon’s mouth, nor ever question why,
Are lilacs by the little porch, the row of tulips red,
The peonies and pansies, too, the old petunia bed,
The grass plot where his children play, the roses on the wall:
Tis these that make a Soldier great. He’s fighting for them all.
Tis not the pomp and pride of kings that make a Soldier brave;
Tis not allegiance to the flag that over him may wave;
For Soldiers never fight so well on land or on the foam
As when behind the cause they see the little place called home.
Endanger But that humble street whereon his children run
You make a Soldier of the main who never bore a gun.
What is it through the battle smoke that valiant Soldiers sees?
The little garden far away, the budding apple trees.
The little patch of ground back there, the children at the play,
Perhaps a tiny mound behind the simple church of gray.
The golden thread of courage isn’t linked to castle dome,
But to the spot, where’er it be – the humble spot called home.
And now the lilacs bud again and all is lovely there,
And homesick Soldiers far away know spring is in the air;
The tulips come to bloom again, the grass once more is green,
And every man can see the spot where all his joys have been.
He sees his children smile at him, he hers the bugle call.
And only death can stop him now – he’s fighting for them all.
Edgar A. Guest, ca. 1940. . . “I want to express my sincere appreciation for your blessed gifts. I know small things like a toothbrush and snacks don’t seem like much but to us out here they are huge reminders of home. Nothing is more precious than our family and friends and these small items remind us of home. I do feel like we Americans are making a difference in this world, and you should be proud. Regardless of the press, the less fortunate need our help. I will be coming home very soon and I hope to volunteer and give back to my other family, my Navy Shipmates, the way you have given to me. Thank you.” (11/07) AZ1 Diesburg
. . . “I am sorry for the un-timeliness of this note. It should have been sent months ago. However, the box of pillows you sent to us in care of Sgt. Lozado had been misplaced! We have found them and we have distributed them to airmen heading into 12 months of deployments. The pillows went very fast. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and also for your good wishes and concern for our Airmen! Know that your gift to us has gone beyond our Air Base perimeter and that its touching the lives of many. Your pillows were a great hit.” 10/07 Major Drober
. . . “Good afternoon Ev Pratt and all the members of the U.S. Troop Care Package. Thank you so very much for sending me a care package. I did share it with the other soldiers here in Baghdad, Iraq with me. We have been here for eleven months so far and appreciate everything that we have received. May God continue to Bless Us All. We are scheduled to go home in January, 2008. Take care. God Bless.” (10/07) SFC Worsley