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

. . . “Just wanted to let you know that the Squad Leader and Squad that I submitted to you just returned back from the Middle East and was very ecstatic about the packages they received!  Please thank all the volunteers for their help!  Every little bit makes a difference!” (10/07) Fowlkes, USAF Retired

. . . “Thank you for the kind thought of sending us a care package.  I kept the pillow and saved the toiletries because I am running low on them and I could always use a second pillow.  Our Platoon buddy loved the tea.  He has several glasses a day.  Personally I don’t know how he does it when it’s still in the 104’s every day!  Everybody enjoyed the snacks.  One soldier went crazy over the cheese-n-crackers.  He hasn’t had them in awhile.  Thank you again for your support and for the goodies.  Many people say they “support the troops” but you actually showed it.  Thanks” (9/07) Sgt. Kolmar

NOTE:  The “tea” was donated by Dragon Pearl Whole Teas, California.

. . . “To all those that make these CARE Packages possible:  THANK YOU!  The support from the home front really makes a difference.  Thank you for all that you do.”  (9/07) LT Goering

. . . “We received a Care Package from you in Iraq and we wanted to say thank you!  The games, snacks, toiletries, and homemade pillow were all very much enjoyed by all of us.  We want to thank you for your support and encouragement!  Take care and God Bless.” (9/07) 1st LT Bergstrom

. . . “Well, it looks like my fun in the sun vacation time is coming to an end.  My replacement should be here within 10 days and I should be out of here by September 15.  Or at least that is what I keep telling myself!  Our replacements are starting to show up now.  The first ones got here earlier in the week.  Mine will not be here until around the 9th.  Hopefully I will be flying out of here by the 15th.  Overall, it has been a great deployment.  I have been able to shower every day and sleep in air conditioning.  That is a lot more than some of my fellow soldiers out here.  It has only been four and ½ months – much better than the Army, they are here for about 15 months.  I know that sending a typed letter is not considered as personal as a hand written one – but the way I write, consider this more respectful to you since you can actually read the typed words!

We have seen about a thousand patients and have helped with over 200 missions.  No one died – at least while in our care.  We have seen some seriously sick and injured and some not so sick.  I am glad we have not seen too many kids (young 18 year olds) who have been blown up – it is emotionally hard to care for these troops, especially the ones who are missing an arm or part of a leg.  We get the ones that come through here that have been in improvised explosive device (IED) explosions.  I took care of a guy the other night that had been in four IED blasts.  I asked him if he got a set of steak knifes for surviving four or did he have to shoot for five?  He laughed!

We are also seeing a lot of patients with psychological issues.  Some of these patients have post traumatic stress (PSTD. A large portion of the psych patients are having problems with their spouses/girlfriends/boyfriends.  I do not think the people at home realize how much isolation there is over here – guess that is why the letters and packages from home are so meaningful.  But some loved ones at home make the problems bigger for the folks over here.  Guess that just stems from the selfishness of the person at home.  I have heard some of the people here on the phone with their loved ones at home and I am amazed at how the people at home are treating these people.  It all boils down to the fact that we have all volunteered to serve – and separation from our loved ones comes with that pledge of service.

When I first got here I started sending out request for needed supplies for the troops.  Since that initial beating the bushes and continued e-mail request, with Americans like you, I have helped collect over $15,000 worth of clothing and supplies for the troops.  That is not even counting the cost of the shipping to get the stuff over here.  The San Francisco 49’ers donated over $4,000 worth of clothing!  This is going to be a cause I will continue to support when I get home.  Since everyone has been so generous to us here, I have been able to send 15 large boxes of supplies to Balad, Iraq and another ten boxes to Afghanistan.

When I get home, I am planning on driving down to Louisiana, through Houston, on to San Antonio to pick up my dog, on through Dallas, and back home.  So, it looks like I will be seeing some of my country soon!  There will be grass and hills and trees and NO Desert!  I love America!!  Thank you again for all you have done for me and the troops! (9/07) Capt Odom

. . . “Just wanted to drop you a line to say thanks for all your support!” (9/07) Capt Odom

. . . “Thank you so much for the package.  It was very nice of you guys.  I think it is really nice that you guys send packages to the troops.  It lets us know that people support us back in the states because we hear so much negative stuff on the news.  I’m sure my husband would like a package also.  It’s really hard for us both being deployed, but we are getting through it.  Well I just wanted to send you guys a quick note to say thanks!  Thank you so much.”  (8/07) SPC Edmonds

. . . “Thank you so much for getting back in contact with me and you willingness to help out.  Let me tell you about who I am.  I am the Company Commander for Headquarters and Headquarters Company based in Iraq. We are called the Headquarters and Headquarters Company for the Falcon Brigade.  I am a separate company.  I do not belong to a Battalion.  My commander is the Brigade Commander.  There are four Brigades in the 82d and we are one of only four BDE HHCs.  We are all Paratroopers by trade.  That means we have all volunteered at least three times in our military careers... once to come into the Army, once to go to Airborne school and the third to come to the 82d Airborne Division where we routinely volunteer to jump out of perfectly good airplanes with 800 or so of our closest friends, usually at night to execute our mission. 

I have well over 50 different Military Occupation Specialties (MOS) in this Company.  It is comprised of over 130 Paratroopers who all call FT Bragg, NC home.  I have troopers ready to retire; I have troopers who have been in the Army only a month and everything in between.  Well over half of my Company has been deployed in support of OIF I, III and also Hurricane Katrina Relief as of late.  Deployments and time away from home is not new to these Paratroopers.  I have males and I have females.  I have ultra serious troopers and pranksters.  I love the diversity of this unit. 

We have the mission to plan and resource the Battalions that are in this Brigade for all aspects war fighting.  We are extremely heavy in senior leaders.  The Brigade Commander and Brigade CSM are in my Company.  Over 60% of the unit are officers and senior Non-Commissioned Officers who run and mange various staff sections such as personnel, intelligence, operations, logistics, civil military affairs, and fire support.  This Company is made up of the best and the brightest.  Each staff section runs very minimally manned maintaining 24 hour operations seven days a week.  We work shift work and there is no such thing as days off or much personal time.  Most of these Paratroopers work about a 14 hour day and have about 10 hours to do physical training, sleep, eat and get ready to come back the next day and do it all over again.  Young Paratroopers are routinely expected to make decision that have a direct impact on the war fighters on the street.  Most of them have been hand picked to work in this Headquarters. 

We arrived in Iraq on a short notice deployment.  We were notified on _____ and we were here by _____.  That is the mission of the 82d... go anywhere to do anything as quickly as possible.  We were deployed as the first Brigade in support of the President's Surge Operation.  We were told to expect a 6-7 month deployment.  As you know, we and all the other Soldiers deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism are now deployed for a length of 15 months so we are expecting to go home in early _____. 

I have been the Commander for about three weeks now and I can tell already this is an outstanding Company.  The Paratroopers of this unit are more dedicated than I have ever seen and their level of expertise in unparalleled.  Thank you for all you do back home to support us.  It is always good to see that people appreciate us.  I have attached a couple pictures from the Change of Command and an excel roster.  I think I answered all the things you need.  There are no birthday’s listed.  Odd story.  I was putting birthdays in the newsletter and somebody made a complaint that I was violating the privacy act.  I didn’t know birthdays were private, anyway.  I don’t even track when people’s birthdays are anymore. Sorry.  God Bless you for having the vision to set this organization up and dedication to see it though and may God continue to Bless the American Paratroopers!” (8/07) Cpt Harvey

. . . “On behalf of our patients and staff, I would like to thank you for your support with gifts of kindness you sent for our wounded warriors.  This means so much to those who come to us with few, if any hygiene or personal items.  Again, thank you for your continued support to the troops.  Your kinds and prayers go a long way.” (8/07) Lt Col Parker

. . . “Thank you for the care package that was sent.  It was very thoughtful and brought some excitement to my day.  It’s nice to know that some people appreciate what we are doing.  Once again thanks and have a blessed day.” (8/07) SSG Hall

. . . “I received a package from you all and I appreciate very much all your hard work to support us in uniform overseas trying to serve our COUNTRY PROUDLY.” (8/07) Snyder, Commanding

. . . “Just wanted to thank you all for the wonderful care package!  Thank you for all your support!  It really is appreciated.” (7/07)  SSgt Kilpatrick

. . . “Thank you very much for the care package!  Receiving mail is definitely the highlight of our day.  I have shared with the other troops and we are all enjoying the goodies.  Thank you again for sending it to us!!!” (7/07) TSgt Brown

. . . “Thanks for your support its because of people like yourselves that makes my day over here.  Thanks for your efforts and prayers.  Its good to know that you care about us.  Thanks for all you do.  P. S. Thanks for the pillow and also the snacks.” (7/07) SFC Ma’o

. . . “Happy 4th of July!  Thanks so much for sending me such an awesome care package.  You guys are great!  Thanks again.” (7/07) Spc Waites

. . . “Happy 4th of July! Greetings from my sandy beach “vacation” in Never Never land!  Well, one thing – there isn’t any water . . . just all beach!  The sun comes up at around 0430 here and gets BLAZING 0435 . . . not really.  But by 0630 it is pretty hot.  I think the days are in the 120s now.  Glad I am working nights.  We get all the missions (the flights coming in and going out with the patients) at night which means all the work.  But I am okay with that if it means I do not have to be out in this heat during the day!

We received your care package yesterday and what a surprise!  It was stuffed with Sweats for the patients!  Thanks for caring about the troops.  They are so happy to receive positive wishes from people at home.  Well, a little about me, my name is Capt. Odom and I am an RN working in Kuwait.  I have been in the Air Force for 18 years; I was enlisted for seven years before I became an officer.  I normally work in the ER at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; I am the Clinical Nurse Specialist there.  My group got here in May and is supposed to be here until September.  I was born in Houston and raised in Louisiana.

I work at a Contingency Air Staging Facility here in Kuwait.  We are caring for soldiers coming in from Kuwait and Iraq.  We are a transition point about 30 miles from Iraq.  We have critical care set up here as well as primary care.  As for the patients we are caring for here, for the most part they are pretty stable – some are very critical and we try to quickly get them on to the local hospital.  We care mostly for Americans but sometimes people who get injured on the convoys are citizens of other countries contracting services to the US.  They cannot get care in the US hospital in Germany so we have to get them to the hospital in Kuwait.  The hospitals in Iraq are not suitable for the care of those working for the US.  Most coming through are not battle injured.  But we have had a few with external fixation devices and many others with battle wounds.  Been seeing a lot of psych patients also.  We pick up patients from flights, house them, and send them off either to the US hospital in Kuwait – or to Germany.  Some are sent back to America.  Not a bad job – but we are working 12 hour shifts six days a week.  That part gets old.  Since there is not much else to do here but go to the gym and work – I have been splitting my time between the two.

Since I have been here, I got all the application paperwork in for the PhD program at Texas Women’s University.  Most of the class work will be completed online.  Several of the PhDs from my most recent grad school are writing letters of reference for me . . . but they are also trying to get me to apply at UT at Houston for their PhD program.  It is a thought.  But since I went to grad school there – I want to get my PhD at a different university.  The deadline for the application is September.  They will announce those accepted by the end of the year.  Hopefully sooner rather than later.

I miss my doggie.  I have a little four pound poodle whose name is Tica and she is 10 years old.  She thinks she is a Rottweiler!  She is going to be so mad at me when she sees me again.  For about 30 seconds she is going to be crazy happy . . . then she will remember that I have been gone for almost five months!  There is so much I want to do when I get home.  I want to go out for a few days and see some of my beautiful country! I think I will go on a road trip to West Virginia for about four or five days.  Maybe do a little white water rafting.

Before you know it, I will be back here.  I am slotted to return here next summer.  There is normally 15 months from the time you get home until you are expected to return.  However, I will be returning approximately six months after I get home.  I get home in time for the snow and the Uck winter in Dayton – then come back here to where it is 800 degrees outside!  Okay, maybe not quite that hot – but it is attention getting.

You mention in your note to tell you if I need anything.  Well, I do not really NEED anything, but I sure would love to have some Atkins Endulge bars.  Since I have been dieting and exercising – I sure miss eating sweets.  Those Atkins Endulge Peanut Caramel Cluster Bars really hit the spot!  If your group would like to send anything for the troops, we could use some travel size baby powder, foot powder, Chapstick, and the chap flip flops (men’s size L & XL) for them to use for shower shoes.  Thanks again for the box of Sweat pants!  If you get a chance, drop me a line.” (7/07) Cpt. Odom

. . . “Thank you so much for the package, gestures like this by people like you really help out the morale.  Thanks again for your support.  I hope to be back in Washington soon.”  (6/07) TSGT Oje

. . . “I wanted to write you guys and thank you so much for my package.  A special thanks to “K” for making me a pillow.  Your gifts and kindness mean a lot to me.  I’ll be honest I miss Pasco, especially my family, a lot.  A deck of cards from the Moose brought me back to a different place for awhile.  I’m moving locations soon, so my address won’t be good much longer, but that’s OK, I’m glad I got one of those neat little flags before I left and the package got lost in space.  You guys are really neat people for all that you do.  I look forward to coming home and seeing everyone again.  Faith, hope, and love guide you as it does me.  Peace and love.”  (6/07) SPC Maxwell

. . . “Thank you for your reply.  I do appreciate all that you guys do to support us over here.  I just wanted to let you know that we will be leaving in July.  Which is like in 30 days.  I have spoken with the new guys here and they are all interested in getting correspondents from people.  My mentorship is coming to a close.  The new mentor for the next six months is SSGT McCord.  He is awaiting your reply.  I hope that you do not ever stop talking with troops overseas.  Thank you again for all that you do.  I wanted to say that I am sorry to all those people that have corresponded to me either by E-Mail, letters or packages over my journey here and I have not written back to you. It saddens me that the work load is so very high with the opt tempo and really didn’t have anytime to E-Mail anyone, including my wife.  But I feel bad that I didn’t make contact with you.  I wanted everyone to know that I have appreciated all that you have done, and all that you will do to bring cheer and a smile to someone’s face.  I have received hundreds of letters and many care packages over the last 5 months and if I had corresponded with everyone I would have been on this computer for many hours.  Anyhow thank you again and please E-Mail SSGT McCord this is the new guy here and he is very excited to mentor the new people.  I hope that each of you have a great day.  Thanks again!!!! You really are making a difference.” (6/07) SSGT Ramsey

. . . “On behalf of our patients and staff, I would like to thank you for your support with gifts of kindness you sent for our wounded warriors.  Thank you for pillows, wipes, hand soap and shaving gel that you sent to us.  This means so much to those who come to us with few, if any hygiene or personal items.  Again thank you for your continued support our troops.  Your kindness and prayers go a long way.” (5/07) Lt Col Parker, Deputy Commander

. . . “Your packages arrived in great condition and in traditional Marine Corps fashion, I took care of the junior troops first.  Instead of giving the box to one Marine, it was given to the Lance Corporals first, then Corporals, we have no Sergeants right now, then the Staff Sergeants get to throw out the empty box.  By sharing the whole box to a group, it helps keep any one Marine from feeling singled out.  Of course I make sure that the ones with little to o mail get first pickings and they are not limited to what they can get from the box.  Everything about your care packages was perfect.  The time and effort put into all of them were worth it.  Watching the junior troops gather items from it was a very nice feeling.  If I had the ability to record them and send you the video, you could see how much of a difference a box from home makes.  I cannot express my gratitude enough.  Thank you very much.

A little about our unit, we’re a Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron.  We have over 15 Marines and no females in our section, or work center.  We work 24/7.  I’m in charge of the night crew.  We fix the components that go inside of the F-18, EA6B, Harriers and everything that the Marine Corps flys.  While we don’t fix the actual aircraft, we fix everything that comes in and out of it.  We have some of the smartest people in the Corps in our MOS’s (jobs).  Instead of being from 1 unit, we come from many to support one unit.  We’re very diverse in culture and geographic from all over the US and it’s territories.  As far as anything specific, I feel bad enough asking for anything at all.  Please thank all of your supporters for bring home closer to us so far away.”  (5/07) SSGT Pealo

. . . “Just wanted to thank you for the Care Packages that your group sent.  It is a pleasure to know that the support back home is more than we thought.  Our prayers and thoughts are also with you.  A special thanks to the children who have packed this stuff up and set it out to us.  To sum it all up, we do what we do for our family, country, and Freedom.  We are not heroes we are soldiers.” (5/07) SSG Bryant’

. . . “Just wanted to convey a heart felt thanks from myself and all 67 of my soldiers sure means a lot getting a little something from home.  If there’s a place on a webpage I can post updates and pic’s, I’d love to!  Thanks Again!.”  (5/07) 1st Sgt. Frans

. . . “Thank you very much for the Care Packages that you sent us.  We really appreciate the care and thought that was put into it.  It makes all of us happy that you support us in our efforts overseas.  I hope that this letter finds all of you in good health.  We are very thankful that we are in your thoughts.  Again thank you very much.” (5/07) WPNS Squad, 82nd Airborne Division

. . . “Thank you very much for the care package.  Well, let me tell you a little bit about myself.  I was born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in South Carolina.  My Birthday is July 26, 1984.  I do not have any kids.  I came in the Army in 2004.  My home duty station is Ft. Riley, KS.  When I came in the military I knew that I could be deployed to Iraq.  So, I was ready for that.  This is my second tour to Iraq.  The first time I deployed October 2005 to October 2006.  I got back and the Unit I was in was going away.  So I volunteered to deploy again in February of 07.  We are in a hostile spot, I just pray everyday that I make it home soon.  I try checking the internet every once in a while to see what is going on in the U.S.  I see that a lot is going on as far as getting us from over here.  But I want to give a special thanks to people like you that support us in what we are doing over here.  Once again thank you and I hope to hear from you soon.” (4/07) SPC Sutton

. . . “On behalf of our patients and staff, I would like to thank you for the pillows you sent for our wounded, injured, and ill warriors.  There are times that our patients come to us without their personal items and your kindness and thoughtfulness will ensure that we can provide them with the means to feel refreshed and prepared for additional travel to their intended destinations.  The “travel size” articles are exactly what they need to get from here to their destination conveniently and comfortably.

Should you or others in your community wish to provide additional items for the comfort and convenience of our patients, in addition to the items you so graciously provided they find particularly useful small re-sealable packages of unscented “baby wipes”, travel size bottles of after-shave, tubes of chap stick, and the small plastic dental picks with floss attached.  Again, thank you for your thoughtfulness and willingness to support our troops.  Such gestures mean more than you might think to those far from home and loved ones.” (4/07) Lt. Col Hurston

NOTE:  A picture of the service personnel was included with the following statement:
“The Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility (CASF) is medical holding and staging facility for our wounded, injured or ill soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines traveling to higher levels of care.  The CASF mission is to ensure that patients are approximately prepared medically and administratively for flight.  Our warriors are cared for as though they are members of our family so, when the time comes for them to travel to the next medical facility, they are carefully taken onto aircraft and handed off to our medical flight crew colleagues.  Thank you for your support.”

. . . “I wanted to write and thank you so much for the box I received today!  The items in the box were distributed throughout my entire section.  Whatever was not claimed in our section was offered to other sections and all of it was taken by somebody who had a need for it.  I greatly appreciate the support that you and all members of this organization provide not only to me, but to all members of the military.  It truly means a lot to us when we know that people remember us and are looking out for us, especially when so many basic things we need are not readily available to us here in Iraq.  Your kindness and generosity definitely have brightened our day!

Just a little bit about us:  We’re a section of 13 Soldiers who provide personnel service support to a light infantry combat tem of over 3,400 Soldiers.  We deployed in February and are expected to be deployed for a least a year with rumors already of being extended up to 4 months.  We all pretty much share the same thought: we’d rather know now that we’re extended instead of finding out right before we’re supposed to go home, as has happened to some units.  We’re at Forward Operating Base Falcon, which is in southern Baghdad.  Our camp isn’t one of the “nicer” ones in Iraq, although improvements already have been made in our short time here and will continue to be made throughout our tour.

We’re fortunate in that we have some more comfort things than we had on my last tour here (September 2003-September 2004 in Ramadi), so I certainly shouldn’t complain.  If I do have one complaint, though, it’s with the limited selection of basic things, mostly personal hygiene items, in our PX.  That’s what really makes packages like the one you sent mean so much, because there are things we can’t get here that most people take for granted.  For instance, the PX carries only one type of shampoo, so everybody is requesting that their families and friends send that.  I believe that as the requests continue to come in, the PX will expand what it has available, but of course they must get those items first from their supplier, and that will take a bit of time.  Again, I wanted to let you know that we all truly appreciate what you do for all of us.  Thank you so much!”  (4/07) CW2 Trepanier

. . . “I am currently deployed to a medical unit in Northern Iraq.  A few of us have received a package from your organization.  Thank you so much for your support.  We so appreciate it.  So many folks here at the 506 EMEDS are interested in the tiny flags you place in the packages.  Would it be possible to get 44 of those tiny flags sent to our unit?  I would like to pass them out prior to the end of our rotation.  Thank you so much.” (4/07) MSGT Johnson

. . . “Thank you very much for your recent Care Package.  It was very thoughtful and generous of your troop to do this for us!  Please find enclosed a picture of all the soldiers who say “Thank You” for your support!” (4/07) SGT Major Veronesi

. . . “Thank you so much for the package.  Your organization is more of a blessing than you can ever imagine.  Your thoughtfulness to the needs of our troops and even the smallest extra treat makes such a difference.  Your contribution has helped improve the morale of deployed military personnel and in turn, assisted in propelling forward the movement on our war against terrorism.  On behalf of our entire chapel staff and the people we serve, we pray God blesses you for your love and support.” (4/07) LT. COL. Slater, Wing Chaplain

. . . “Thank you for your care package.  It was such a nice surprise.  I especially liked the pillow and the packages were wrapped.  Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to make sure that the troops have a nice holiday and that we are taken care of.  It means so much to know that people like you are taking care of us.  We will be leaving in April and I’ve realized that I’ve taken a lot for granted.  It’ll be nice to be back in the U.S.  Thank you again for everything.” (3/07) QM3 Randall

. . . “My husband and I wanted to thank you for the box that you sent him.  He asked me to write to you because he is very busy in Afghanistan.  Justin is a Chinook crew chief and he is always flying.  He works 14 hour days most of the time.  He is stationed at Ft. Bragg and he has been in the army for almost 6 years now.  We are originally from Cincinnati, Ohio.  We have been here the whole time he has been in the army.  We have been married fore 8 years now and we decided we wanted a change that is why he joined the army.  We love it except for the deployments.  This is his 3rd deployment since January of 2003.  It is wearing us out to say the least and we are ready for a change ourselves.  We are hoping to get stationed somewhere that is less hectic than Ft. Bragg.  As I said before you have no idea how thankful we are for your kindness.  Justin only gets 1 day off per 14 days so he has very limited time for anything really.  He liked the stuff you have sent.  He did ask me to have him removed from the list and no longer wishes to receive care packages.  He appreciates this but he says he is getting bombarded with many care packages and would rather this go to someone else who is in need more than him.  I hope this does not offend you.  Thanks again for your kindness.”  (3/07) A. Neely

. . . “I recently received a care package from your organization and wanted to say thanks!  Sorry it took so long to write back we’ve been sort of buy the past few weeks.  That was really great of you to think of me and my buddies out here.  I’m 27 and from the northeast. My squadron over here is a small unit of Air Force people from bases all over the world.  We’re located just north of Baghdad.  The weather here is pretty cold on some days, but overall not too bad.  We’re supposed to be getting into the rainy season soon.  How about you guys?  Any major plans for the weekend like visiting family?  Ii try to call home whenever I get the chance, but email is definitely the way to go.  Thanks again for the thought.  Things like that really do make a difference to people over here, especially for some of the guys who don’t have family or friends who write.  Be safe and have fun!”  (2/07) Capt. Skow

. . . “I just wanted to send you a quick email thanking your organization for the care package that was recently sent to me.  Words alone can’t express the gratitude that me and the other 22 Soldiers of my platoon feel each time we receive a package from great Americans like you.  We are a tight knit group that shares the items we receive amongst ourselves and your package brought joy to myself and the other 22 Soldiers of my platoon.  My personal thanks goes to each and every one of you.  God Bless!” (2/07) MSG Teal

. . . “I received the care package yesterday and just want to thank you very much!  I’m going to share with my folks!  Thank you for everything you do, it means a lot to all of us!” (1/07) MSGT Hughes

. . . “Greetings from Baghdad, Iraq.  My name is PFC Wright.  I am writing to thank you for the packages you sent the 630th MP Co. They all went to good use.  I hope you have a great holiday and an even better New Year.  Thanks! (1/07) PFC Wright

. . . “Thank you so much for your donation!  Your contribution is more of a blessing than you can ever imagine and your thoughtfulness to the needs of our troops of even the littlest extra treat makes such a difference. Your gift has helped improve the morale of our deployed military personnel.  On behalf of our entire chapel staff and the people we serve, we pray God blesses you for your love and support.” (1/07) Chaplain, Lt. Col. Slater

. . . “Thank you for your recent donation/gift.  I am Major Michelle Franco-Cohn and I am the 332nd CASF donation/gift Representative.  The CASF is an element of the 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group in Balad, Iraq.  Both the patients passing through here and the staff wish to thank you for your efforts.  It is a comfort to all of us that folks like yourselves remember we are here.  We all know what you have done takes from your busy schedules.  On behalf of all those who benefit from your kind donations we send you our gratitude.” (1/07) Major Franco-Cohn

. . . “Thank you all very much for the wonderful care package.  I loved it and really boosted my morale.  Thank you for all you do for us out here.  I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” (1/07) Spc Gapinski

2006

. . . “I want to thank you so much for your support and generosity.  I am an officer on board the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.  We are currently off the coast of Pakistan, providing air support to the ground troops of Afghanistan.  I was able to share your care package with 60 sailors who work for me.  The time and effort you all put into getting these packages together is greatly appreciated.  Life at sea can get very monotonous and it’s always a comfort to know that the citizens back home support the sacrifices of our soldiers and sailors.  Once again thank you and God Bless.”  (12/06) ENS Shaffer

. . . “I would like to thank you for the package.  I shared it with my maintenance team.”  (12/06) SGT Parker

. . . “Thank you so much for sending me a package, I enjoyed everything in it.  It is finally nice to see that we have friends who care and want us to succeed and come home safe.  I also give thanks to Christian and Adam for the card and the letter if they have an address, I’d like to write to them personally.  Once again thank you and God Bless.” (12/06) SSG Lopez

. . . “I want to personally thank you for the gifts that were sent to my guys and I.  It is always a special feeling knowing that people want to give to the deployed troops and I’ve not been on this side of it for a long time.  Thank you again for everything, most especially for the support.  It’s just awesome.” (12/06) MSGT Buntin

. . . “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to your organization for your very active participation in sending Soldiers in my Platoon care packages.  Each Soldier has also asked me to pass on their sincere appreciation for your kindness in providing them with the little comforts of home while they take part in supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.  We are currently hard at work conducting the mission the Army has brought us here to do, and we look forward to the day we return back to Fort Lewis sometime next year.  Since you are located near the Fort Lewis community we look forward to possibly meeting the members of your organization so we can thank you all in person.  Again, thanks so much for your enthusiastic participation towards the Soldiers of First Platoon.  I have no doubt that it would not have been for someone like your organization the Soldiers could not get through a day without your heartfelt care packages.  Please keep in touch.” (12/06) Lt. Vivian

. . . “To all of the volunteers with U.S. Troop Care Package:  The Soldiers of 1st Platoon, 630th Military Police Company wish to send our deepest gratitude for your thoughtful package and kind words.  It is always great to know that there are folks like you who appreciate and support us and what we do on a daily basis.  From the sands of Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan, we send our sincerest Thanks!!  Regulators!” (12/06) CPT Bratton

. . . “Just want to inform you that I did receive the packages for my soldiers.  We all do appreciate everything that you have done for us.  Thank you for your support.  Have a blessed day.” (12/06) WO1 Hunter

. . . “Hello.  Thank you for the care package I received today.  It was full of goodies.  Didn’t expect a package to come that good.  It made my day.  Thank you for your support.  Take Care.”  (12/06) SPC Catap

. . . “Greetings from Iraq.  We just wanted to send you a letter thanking you for your support and generosity.  Your kind thoughts and gifts have been helpful for boosting the morale of our soldiers.  As you can imagine, it is very difficult to be away from family, friends and loved ones for such a long time.  Receiving packages from home truly demonstrates your appreciation for the hard work we are doing over here in Iraq.  Again, thank you from the soldiers of the 310th MP BN.” (11/06) Soldiers of the 310th MP BN

. . . “Hello!  First off I would like to thank you for the care package.  I know that a lot of the time you send boxes and packages out to troops, you don’t get replies or thanks right away or not at all.  But I would like to thank you for the care package.  I really appreciate it a whole lot.  It really lifts the spirits of those who receive packages from the supporters in the USA.  I have to be honest with you, when I saw your package, it put a smile on my face.  I was having one of those bad days and when I saw your package I instantly changed my mood.  Sometimes all it takes is a letter or even an email just to make a troop have a better day.  I know when people write to troops they say that they are thankful for what we do, but the thing is, is that we are thankful for the support.  Without the support from citizens like yourself, we would be hating life and depressed, but when we get letters we realize what we actually do and how much it makes a difference.  Without troops working the long hours and doing the convoys and patrolling through the cities, our country wouldn’t be free.  And I know that a lot of Americans take advantage of their freedom and don’t realize what it takes for us to be free.  This was supposed to be a thank you letter but I hope it leads to more.  I hope it inspires you and I hope you continue to send packages to troops in need of attention and continue to be a supporter of the American troops.  I hope to hear from you soon.  Thanks and God Bless!  With love and thanks.” (11/06) HN Christofek

. . . “Thanks to everyone involved in sending my package.  It made my day and the soldiers I shared with.  Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!” (11/06) SSG Crane

. . . “Dear Matthew, George, and Connor (Boy Scouts & Cub Scouts).  Thank you so much for the thoughtful care package.  We loved it!  It’s always nice to be remembered at Christmas time.  We also liked the letters and pictures you drew.  I am in the Army.  Before I came overseas, we did lots of training to prepare for our jobs here.  That’s how we get good at our jobs.  Not everyone fights-there are also computer jobs, cooks, truck drivers and more.  Sometimes we sleep out in tents, kind of like we’re camping.  I bet you learn lots of cool stuff in Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts!  Thanks again for supporting the troops.  It’s so great to be an American and be proud of our country!  Have a Merry Christmas!”  (11/06) Sgt 1st Class Schwind

. . . “Thank you so much for the care package.  I can’t tell you how much I appreciated it and the card inside made me cry.  It was a little slice of home just when I needed it the most.”  (11/06) TSGT Curro

NOTE:  The card referred to is a card “U.S. Troop Care Package” puts in each and every Care Package and reads “Our community extends our deepest appreciation and gratitude for all that you do for our country.  YOU make us proud to be Americans.”

. . . “I’m currently deployed in support of the war and just received a care package from you guys.  I want to thank you for your support to me and my brothers over here.  Getting this package made me feel at ease knowing that you all support us.  It helps cope with being away from our family’s during the holiday time knowing that we are fighting for a cause and that people really do care about us and what we are doing.  Thank you so much.” (11/06)  SRA Albrecht

. . . “I just wanted to thank you and who ever else made the care package for Ryan. He really enjoyed it.  He is having a hard time right now and it really made him smile. Thank you!” (11/06) Marie Goff

. . . “Just a short note to say thank you for the wonderful care package I received.  I am currently stationed with medical in Kuwait and the package made my day.  Wishing you and those you hold dear a very happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday.”  (11/06) LCDR Braun

. . . “Thank you for the many wonderful things you have sent me.  Please let the person responsible for crocheting the hat that those are a big hit with all the guys.  I hope you don’t mind but I shared the package with all the guys in my unit.  It really helps us over here knowing there is some one back home thinking and worrying for all of us over here.  Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our service members overseas.  Please know that your efforts are not going unnoticed and are not taken for granted.  I do have one request though.  My wife and daughter are back in the States and it will be my daughter’s first birthday on the sixteenth.  Please send a letter or something to my wife telling her how much she is appreciated.  For all the sacrifices we make it is small in comparison to what a military spouse has to endure.  Thank you again.” (11/06) SRA Young

. . . “I wanted to let you know that I received your care package in the mail today.  Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.  Everything in there was very, very much appreciated.  I shared some with some of my buddies over here and they enjoyed it as well.  The personal touches were the best and reminded me that there are actually some people back in the states that really do care.  Thank you for that.  Unfortunately I don’t think I have all of the names of everyone who contributed to the package but I do have a few names.  Please forward my personal thank you to Kyle Cormell, Douglas Crawford and the Addison Cub Scouts Tiger Den.  Their personal touches really brought a piece of home over here and that is what matters the most.  Thank you again.  My most heartfelt thank you goes to a boy named Daniel who drew me a great picture.  That really means a lot.  (Unfortunately, that is all of the information I have about him . . . just his first name.)  Again, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you.  Happy Holidays and God Bless!” (11/06) SSGT Merrifield

. . . “Thanks for all your support to my husband’s unit 72nd SIG BN.  They are coming home this month.  Thanks for your support to my husband Sgt. Ramon Acevedo with all your care packages and messages that he was able to share with his unit and other soldiers in Baghdad.  You guys are great.  God Bless all of you!” (11/06) Lourdes Sauveterre

. . . “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful care package you sent me.  It helps uplift all of our spirits.  Because of caring people like you we are able to continue with our daily missions.  Words can’t describe how much the support means to us.  Know we are being safe and will always be grateful to your organization.  Thanks again and God Bless our wonderful country.” (11/06) Tuckwell

font color="blue">. . . “I received a package from your group last week and I can’t thank you enough for all the wonderful things that I received.  Your company is doing great things and has sent packages to myself and several of my comrades.  We are all very thankful for the gifts and for people doing good things such as you and your company.  It is a hard time to be over here with all that is going on but knowing that there are people back home that don’t even know us but are thinking about us is an amazing feeling.  Thank you again for the package and for your doing your part in supporting the troops.” (10/06) SRA Land

. . . “Thank you so much for all the pillows.  I pass them out to all the soldiers that come through here.  The pillows bring smiles to the injured, they are greatly appreciated.  Thank you for all the love and support.  Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.” (10/06) TSGT Dewberry

. . . “I just wanted to thank you for your package...it was greatly appreciated!  Thank you for your support of the troops.”  (10/06) Sgt. Glass

. . . “How did you ever fit all that into one box?!  Thank you very much for the care package you sent on September 5th!  You did a great job of packing a lot of goodies into the box!  And all the variety!  There’s always been something from the package that really hit the spot!  Most of all, thank you for your support!  So many people here are doing without the luxuries and conveniences we all take for granted (myself included) and are going for extended periods without their families.  It means so much to everyone here to just know they have your support!  Thank you U.S. Troop Care Package volunteers!  Thank you for all you do!” (10/06) Major Martin

. . . “Thank you so much for my wonderful care package.  I’m not sure if I wrote you all a thank you so I came across this address and I’m writing to you again.  So here’s a little of info about me.  I’m 29, have a 4 year old beautiful daughter named Mea.  I joined because her dad broke up with me and I was not secure financially, so I thought doing a little time for the army will make a good future for the 2 of us, and so far so good.  I miss her (she’s with her dad while I’m here) but I had to make a sacrifice for our future.  I grew up in Smithton, Illinois (close to St. Louis) a population of about 1,000.  I love America, baseball and my family and friends.  I believe we will win this war but it will be a long war so we need folks like you to spread the work to support our military.  The Good will win, I believe in my heart.  Thank you all for all the hard work and time you put into making me and countless other soldiers feel appreciated.  My unit is supposed to be going home around November.  Boy am I ready, I’ve been here since January.  They are stopping our mail in October so if ya wanna write do so before then.  Thank you.”  (9/06) PFC Bramble

. . . “Thank you so much for the care package.  I received it about an hour ago.  Much appreciated.  My care package was great.  I definitely like the knitted hat of the Seahawk colors.  I will use everything you sent.  It’s always nice to know someone back home cares.  Thank you.”  (9/06) SSGT Crump

. . . “I received my care package today!  Thank you for all the support, care and time put into putting together this care package and shipping it out to troops such as myself.  The water gun is a nice touch; can’t wait to help my fellow soldiers cool off.  Thanks again.”  (9/06) SGT Brown

. . . “Thank you again for your donation to our American Heroes who were injured while defending freedom.” (8/06)

. . . “THANK YOU during this difficult deployment.  Many generous people back home, like you, have supported me and my platoon.  This support has helped make this austere environment a little more comfortable.

Thanks to you, our morale has not dipped or wavered in the slightest and we have maintained the strength to carry on and perform the difficult jobs at hand.  Your letters and care packages have let us know you care and that we are not forgotten.  It is difficult to turn on the news and read the papers when the news from home seems public support is waning.  You could not tell this to be true from the number of letters and packages we have received.  It has been completely overwhelming.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated.  It has put a smile on many faces and made my job a little easier.  It has brought a piece of happiness to those who are homesick and sad.  The letters and packages of support have been a ray of sunshine in a desolate and barren place.  Thanks again.” (8/06) MAJ Haislip (”Grave Robber Platoon”, A Medic Platoon)

. . . “Thank you for all your support, this year has been a long one but you reminded us that there are people back home waiting and praying for us.  Thank you again for everything!” (8/06) SPC Dandy

. . . “On behalf of 332d Expeditionary Aerospace Medicine Squadron (EAMDS), I would like to personally thank you for the generous donations of snack foods and support that your organization provided for our injured war heroes who are awaiting airlift transportation to a safer area.  Your continued commitment in providing for our troops is sincerely appreciated by the troops themselves, their families back home, and the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility (CASF) medical staff.

One of the many missions of the CASF is to provide the incoming heroes with a quiet resting area, warm shower, clean change of clothes, and the small but meaningful extras that remind the troops just how much we love and support them.  Donations from supporters like you and your family help to ensure our heroes are comfortable and well taken care of as they continue their homeward journey.

I would like to personally acknowledge your support for our troops and can not begin to tell you how much your support means to all of us.  To know that we are remembered is a wonderful gift.  Thank you again for your generous donations and continued support.” (8/06) COL Bunning, Commander

. . . “THANK YOU.  During this difficult deployment...many generous people back home, like you, have supported me and my platoon.  This support has helped make this austere environment a little more comfortable.

Thanks to you, our morale has not dipped or wavered in the slightest and we have maintained the strength to carry on and perform the difficult jobs at hand.  Your letters and care packages have let us know you care and that we are not forgotten.  It is difficult to turn on the news and read the papers when the news from home seems public support is waning.  You could not tell this to be true from the number of letters and packages we have received.  It has been completely overwhelming.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated.  It has put a smile on many faces and made my job a little easier.  It has brought a piece of happiness to those who are homesick and sad.  The letters and packages of support have been a ray of sunshine in a desolate and barren place.  Thanks again.”  (8/06) Major Haislip

. . . “I just wanted to thank your company for the care package that I received.  I really appreciate.  It is good to know that we are supported in our time of war.  Thanks again so much.” (7/06) CPL Albright
. . . “I hope my email finds you doing very well.  I wanted to take a quick moment and thank you and your organization for the incredible support that my soldiers and I have received during this deployment.  I know I have been derelict in my duty to write more letters than I have, but I hope that no one will be too upset with that. I believe I was able to write at least one or two thank you letters and notes for the support received.  I just wanted to make sure that you knew our potential time frame for leaving the desert.  I know I cannot be completely accurate, but it would probably be safe to make sure that no one mails anything else to us after the 6th or 7th July.  I think we will be moving out by the time anything mailed after that would arrive.  I do not want anyone to be upset or postage to be wasted that could go towards someone else’s care package delivery.  The round has been anything but easy, however, the support we have received has continued to anchor our morale.  Especially, the truck drivers that would spend 10-15 continuously on the road through Iraq, it has made a huge impact and difference for their time.

Once we are out of Iraq, we will be in Kuwait going through the usual red tape.  After that is complete, we will all board the big iron bird and return to Germany if there is anything remaining after the world cup.  I will leave my information for Germany just in case anyone would like to continue to stay in touch.  We will probably be going through about 45 days of paperwork and downtime, and then we will prepare for the next mission whatever it may be.  I have interviewed for a company command, so I am just waiting on the news from that.  If I get the company, there is a possibility that I will have to move from Kaiserslautern to Mannheim.  Either way it will be a good step forward.  Sincerest appreciation.”  (6/06) Cpt. Geishaker

. . . “Thank you so much for the care package.  I will use everything!  Thanks again.” (6/06) LCDR Logan

. . . “Your support really means a lot.  Thank you!” (6/06) SSG Foxx

. . . “Thank you very much for you supporting my platoon with mail.  Mail time is the second most important time of the day.  Second only to meal time.  Well, some of the time that is debatable.  Something as simple as a care package, letter, or card means the world of difference to a soldier’s morale when they are deployed to a foreign land.  It lets us know we are not forgotten and that people back home care.

Thank you very much for supporting the members of my platoon with care packages.  I shared mine and it put a lot of smiles on my medics’ faces and was the highlight of a day.  We are deployed to Northern Iraq.  I am the Battalion surgeon or Chief Physician for 2/327 Infantry.  We provide medical support to the entire Battalion.  We have enjoyed all the support from people all over the U.S. and Canada.  I am originally from West Virginias.  I am currently stationed in Georgia.  I live there with my wife Bridgett and son Mac.  I will finally get to see them next month after 9 months apart.  It will only be for 2 weeks, but hopefully we will be home 3-4 months from then.  Thanks again.”  (5/06)  MAJ Halslip

. . . “We would like to personally “Thank You” for making a difference in the lives of the people of the Horn of Africa.  With grateful donations like yours, we are slowly linking their world and ours.  We have traveled into many of the villages throughout the region and truly witnessed how their lives have been touched.  It’s all due to incredible people like you who took the time to gather these materials ad send them to us.

The Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa is responsible for an area that is two-thirds the size of the United States and contains eight nations.  The area has a population of 170 million people of which fifty percent are unemployed.  There are 3.3 million refugees and an additional 10 million displaced persons living in the area.  Our goal is to raise the awareness regarding how people of faith and goodwill can make a tremendous difference in the lives of honorable and appreciative people who live throughout the Horn of Africa.  Donations like yours improve peoples’ overall quality of life and help them to better support their families.  Know that you have made a difference tin the life of our troops, our Seabees and Marines who guard our camp with the donations you have sent.” (5/06) Chaplains’ Poe and Stoneking

. . . “I would like to thank those of you that faithfully supported the 29th SPT BN while they were deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Your donations touched the lives of many soldiers and for that you are to be commended.  Many of you continued to support me throughout my 120 day extension period with the 32nd Signal Battalion.  I thank you for your continued support.  Many of you sent donations to me for the Local Nationals that I encountered throughout my duties as a Civil Military Operations Officer.  I enjoyed giving the donated items to the Local Nationals and was rewarded with an exceptional experience.  The Locals were very appreciative of the items they received.  Many times, I felt bad because I did not have enough for every Local national that I encountered, however, I take comfort in knowing that what I did handout impacted those on the receiving end.  I will be leaving Iraq for re-deployment back to Hawaii.  I have enjoyed the warmth and wealth of support shown to me, the soldiers of the 29th BN, the Iraqi Children and Adults, and the soldiers of the 32nd SIG BN.” (4/06) MAJ Nilsen

. . . “I just received one of your care packages, I’m not sure when it was sent but it was much appreciated.  I’m sitting in East Africa and the well wishes from home are the best.  Mail is key!  I would like to extend thanks and gratitude from 270 California based marines for supporting us while we are at war.  You are the best, and you also make being far away from home better!  Thanks again.”  (4/06) LCPL Weiss

. . . “I returned from my R & R leave to Germany to find your generous package waiting for me.  It was such a wonderful surprise to receive it and I would like to sincerely thank you for your kindness in thinking of me and the other soldiers.  Your support, thoughts, and prayers make so much of a difference to soldiers like myself-all the wonderful things in the package (and all quite useful things!) really boost our morale.  So thank you from the bottom of my heart for brightening my day.  Your kindness will be remembered as I finish out my tour here with the 130th Engineer Brigade in Iraq.  Thank You.”  (4/06) Cpt. Karelis

. . . “Thank you for the boxes of joy, your enthusiasm in supporting all Soldiers deployed forward in support of the Global War on Terrorism is greatly appreciated through out all ranks.  Your support has brought thanks and smiles to all the Soldiers in the company.  You truly uphold the definition of what we call a “Great American.”  Once again thank you for your time, effort and support.  (3/06) Cpt. Hunter

. . . “I WANT TO EXPRESS MY APPRECIATION FOR THE INVALUABLE SUPPORT YOU PROVIDE TO OUR MEN AND WOMEN IN UNIFORM.  AS A MEMBER OF THE “AMERICA SUPPORTS YOU” TEAM, YOUR ORGANIZATION HELPS STRENGTHEN THE BONDS BETWEEN OUR MILITARY AND THE AMERICANS THEY SERVE.  THANK YOU FOR LETTING SERVICE MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES KNOW HOW MUCH THEIR FELLOW AMERICANS VALUE THEIR COURAGE, COMMITMENT AND SACRIFICE.” (2/06) SECRETARY OF DEFENSE, DONALD RUMSFELD

. . . “We here at 226 Med Log Bn (FDT) Al Asad have received the care packages that you have sent.  It is most appreciated and is a welcomed change for us here.  We, the soldiers here, are grateful for what you have done for us and countless others.  The countless hours and volunteer work that you all have put in for this cause is noticed by all.  Again we are thankful for the package.  Our unit is based out of Miesau, Germany.  We are a medical logistics unit.  We are a detachment of our main body which is at Balad.  The five of us here consist of 3 medical supply specialists and 2 biomedical maintenance equipment technicians.  With all that goes on here in Iraq the simple things are the best remembered.  This will be remembered as a significant part of our deployment to Al Asad, Iraq.  With respect and Love.” (2/06) SGT. Green, SPC. Ray, SPC. Banks, SPC. Carswell, PFC. Saenz

. . . “What a wonderful surprise when your package arrived.  The soldiers were all happy, plus I loved the pillow.  Your support helps us (the soldiers) know that America Cares.  Thanks.” (2/06) SFC Soper “Fixin to Fight”

. . . “Hello, I am SFC Crute and I just received your care package today.  I would like to thank you for your support and the things were definitely needed.  We are up here on the Iraqi/Iranian border with no PX, finances, and so on.  I don’t want to give too many details.  I think it’s the troop downsizing that is taking our life support.  Thanks a million again and I will share it with my fellow troops.  Have a good day.” (1/06) SFC Crute

. . . “Hello my name is JP Malboeuf, I am a USAF, SSGT, currently stationed here in Iraq.  My current duty is to assist in restoring a better electrical system to Iraq.  I am a husband and father of four.  I have two daughters (ages 13 years old and 1 years old) and two sons (7 years old and 4 years old).  Even though my family misses me very much, they do understand that one of my responsibilities is to help out people who cannot help themselves.  I and many other people here have received your many generous donations.  During the Christmas Holiday I was assisted by many of my work mates in delivering to the field your packages and wishes.  I noted that the soldiers we came out to see didn’t know how to respond at first, I explained to them “Everyone from the U.S.A.F. wishes us the best out here and wants to see that each and everyone of you come home safe!”  News spread fast through-out the camp.  Soldiers were looking for us and no longer did we have to seek them out.  Their harden stares become smiles all around us.  Smiles so big, like they just met their favorite movie stars, and to them this movie star came to their camp, just for them.  No I am not speaking of myself or anyone else delivering the packages.  They were smiling at you..!  Because of you and your treats, letters, notes, and cards they all sent a B – I – G message.  Your message “YOU CARE..!”  I hope you don’t mind that I am taking the liberty to speak on behalf of the group, I know they would have sent the same exact message.  So on behalf of the men and women stationed here who don’t have the time to write you themselves. “Thank-You!” (1/06) SSGT Malboeuf

. . . “We just received several of your care packages and I wanted to thank you!  It seems as though you have a lot of people involved as each package was signed by a different person.  Please extend my thanks to everyone.  We make all of the goodies and necessities available for our patients.  It is wonderful to see them smile as they take a piece of home with them.  Your work goes a long way in maintaining morale in our troops.  I just wanted to let you know how much everything is appreciated!  Thank you very much again!" (1/06) CDR Weehsler

. . . “First of all I would like to thank you for all the support and prayers.  They do not go unheard or felt.  People like you make me proud to serve my country.  In times like these you all are a blessing.  My name is Sergeant Trammell.  I am with the 10th Combat Support Hospital of Fort Carson, CO.  I am a 91M which is a Nutrition Care Specialist.  I work under a dietitian doing special diets for patients.  Some of the special diets that I may have to produce are diabetic, clear liquid, cardiac prudent, renal and so on.  We provide care to patients that are soldiers, civilians and members of other foreign services.  I am married to a wonderful man named Tony and I have a 16 year old stepson.  They are wonderful and very supportive in what I do.  I have been in the active Army since 1997 and I just re-enlisted in November of 2006 for 6 years.  I do plan on making this a career and retiring when my service is complete.  I work in an office with two other soldiers and they are a great team.  The rest of our team was sent farther up north to support the other half of our hospital.  The pictures that I have included are of us in route to Kuwait.  I am sorry that I do not have any current theater photos but I will send them as soon as I get some.  In a theater like this we are limited to certain things.  If there is any way that you can help, my section and fellow soldiers would be so grateful.  I have provided a list of things that we do not have access to or are in limited quantities.  If you are unable to help in this way please keep praying for all of the soldiers and their families and a safe return home.  Again I thank you for all you do in support of our mission.” (1/06) Sgt. Trammell

LIST OF ITEMS REQUESTED: Chicken broth granules, beef broth granules, sandwich bags, snack sandwich bags, sugar free snacks, crackers, graham crackers, pre-made jello packs, crayons, markers, tape, colored printer paper, construction paper, shampoo, conditioner, shave cream, razors, baby wipes, foot powder.

. . . “My husband was deployed to Iraq and you all sent him care packages.  I just wanted to say Thank You from the bottom of my heart for keeping our soldiers and their families in your thoughts and prayers.  My husband is home safe now.  Thank you again for all your support.” (1/06) Melson

. . . “Please send more patient pillows.  They appreciate all that you do, and the pillows really offer a sense of comfort on the long flights that these individuals have to take.”  (1/06) TSGT Winkler

DONOR COMMENTS

2010

. . .”Once again thank you for your very much appreciated service for our wonderful country. (8/10)

. . .”I wanted to thank you for all that you do for the troops.  I know how much they appreciate what is being done for them.  I know that many of them do not make a lot of money and it is my privilege to help them with some goodies and necessities in their lives.  Because of you and others I can e a small part of helping the troops with their daily living.  I am so thankful to you and the other workers who put together all of these care packages for the troops.  I wish more people would help the troops.  I do not know how many people truly appreciate and understand what a sacrifice it is for these young men and women who put their lives at risk every day.  I talk to a lot of people about this and I hope they follow through with sending a package.  Please keep doing this and I will continue to send goodies, until the troops come home.  With great admiration.”  (6/10)

. . .”Thank you for doing what you do.”  (6/10)

. . .”I wanted to thank you for all that you do for the troops.  I know how much they appreciate what is being done for them.  I know that many of them do not make a lot of money and it is my privilege to help them with some goodies and necessities in their lives.  Because of you and others I can be a small part of helping the troops with their daily living.  I am so thankful to you and the other workers who put together all of these care packages for the troops.  I wish more people would help the troops, I tell a lot of people about this and I hope they follow through with sending a package.  Please keep doing this and I will continue to send goodies, until the troops come home.  With great admiration.” (3/10)

. . .”Here are some items to pass on to soldiers in your packages.  I found it online and wanted to share.  I have sent you greeting cards before for the soldiers.  I plan to do it again for the holidays.  I know how special cards and letters are to soldiers away from friends and family.  I have a few soldier pen pals and enjoy their letters a lot.  They love to get mail.  Our fall weather is nice after such a hot and dry summer here in Texas.  You are doing such a wonderful thing for soldiers all over the world.  Just want to tell you thank you from me.” (1/10)

. . .”I wanted to thank you for all that you do for the troops.  Because of you I can be a small part of helping the troops with their daily living.  I am so grateful to you and the other workers who put together all of these care packages for the troops to have just a little better and more comfortable experience in such absurd circumstances.  Please keep doing this and I will continue to send goodies, until the troops come home.  With great admiration.” (1/10)

2009

. . .”I saw the article in the newspaper highlighting your effort.  Please use my donation wherever there is a need.  I wish I could do more for all our troops away from their families.  They deserve so much more.  Thanks for all you do for them, along with all your other volunteers.”  (11/09)

. . .”Thanks for all you do!” (11/09)

. . .”Thank you for what you do.” (11/09)

. . .”I appreciate the work that you and your organization do to make things a little better for our troops.  I’m glad to be able to help in this small way.  Thank you.” (10/09)

. . .”You do a great job!” (10/09)

. . .”Hi how are things there with you?  See you’re all putting Christmas things together for our troops.  That’s thinking and providing ahead.  I’m sure they appreciate it during the Holidays even that much more.  Thank you.  As November 11th-Veterans Day is approaching, I thought I should send my Uncle (who is also a Vet, some $ and then he maybe, as it gets close to Veteran’s Day, he could put some flower’s at Tahoma National Cemetery (where dad and mom are place in their urn in Columbarium Wall). Then I thought – Nope, dad and mom would appreciate more money being sent for our troops whom they appreciated and are Proud of their Service and Sacrifices.  So please use where it’s needed in their memory.  Thanks.  In Remembrance of Veteran Arthur McDermott and wife Marion McDermott.” (9/09)

. . .”Thank you for the letters you send and letting me know what is going on there and with the troops.  I really appreciate them!  I hope to continue sending items for the soldiers.  God Bless you and all you do.” (8/09)

. . .”Thank you so much for coming to Cub Scout Day Camp.  We greatly appreciate all of your time, supplies, and willingness to help out.  We are very happy the boys and parents have been made aware of your organization and what you do.  Thanks.”  (8/09) Cub Scout Day Camp Staff

. . .”Thank you once again for allowing me to be part of this wonderful effort.  I am so very proud of what you’re doing.  (6/09)

. . .”Thanks so much for your letters/updates.  We’re hoping this maybe helps in whatever way to achieve something nice for our servicemen and women or that’s needed.  Sure appreciate all you do in helping with that.” (6/09)

. . .”During the month of February, our Sunday School, Church and School collected items and donations for the “Adopt A Soldier” program.  We are sending 3 boxes and have collected to pay for shipping.  We have individuals in our own Redeemer family who have served or who are currently serving in Iraq, so we know first hand the sacrifices our soldiers make.  We wanted to take this opportunity to thank our soldiers for securing our freedom for our country.” (3/09)

. . .”Thank you so much for sending me a copy of Major R.S. Way, USAF letter that was sent to you.  I am going to have our Editor of our monthly Bulletin put it in the next bulletin so all of our members can read it and see how much of what we do is important to our troops.  As soon as I get caught up on my other work I will be sending you more letters to put into your care packages.  I am sorry for not sending them sooner however I have had so many projects to finish before I could get back to them.

I have contact with a SGM that was in Kuwait and now is in DC and we communicate via e-mail.  I also have another soldier at Camp Taji that communicates with me.  It is so nice to be able to communicate with some of the troops and let them know how much we appreciate all of their sacrifices.  As soon as we get more funds in our Americanism Project Fund we will be sending you more things however at this time our funds are rather low so I am the one that is footing the expense for shipping, etc.  I only hope I will be ale to do more for our troops in the near future.  Take care and I applaud you for the wonderful work you are dong for our troops.  Love in friendship.” (3/09)

. . .”Thank you again for the wonderful work you do!!! Best Wishes.” (3/09)

. . .”Thank you for providing a wonderful service for our troops.” (3/09)

. . .”I want to thank you personally for all of the work you do for the troops.  I would also like to thank all of your staff and volunteers for putting the care packages together for the young men and women who are so proudly serving our country.  It is so important that our troops are being recognized.  It is a great honor for me to be able to help the troops in some small way.  I am proud of them and will continue to support them until they come home.  Without all of you putting things together the troops would not be recognized and supported as much as they are.  Keep up the good work.  With great respect.” (2/09)

. . .”Thank you for your kind words.  I have to tell you that I have heard from several of the service men and women.  Apparently when you put one of our thank you letters in a care package when they receive it some of them will either e-mail me or send me a card or letter.  I know they tell us not to expect a reply, but I am so amazed how many do.  Some of them have given me their unit number and their APO address so we are sending packages to two different units in Iraq.  So if you are wondering why we haven’t sent any items other than our letters to you this is the reason why.  I have so many more letters to put in envelopes and as I do I will get them off to you.  I know the words of encouragement and thanking them for their service and sacrifices they are making for me and our Nation seems to be most important to them at least this is what they express in their letters back to me.  I will continue to send beanies to you as soon as we can get a few more together as our men said they had enough as we sent one each for all of the men and women in their units and also scarves that are hand made also.  (1/09)

2008

. . .”Please accept this donation as a sincere thank you for what you do for our precious troops.” (12/08)

. . . “Rather than exchanging gifts with each other, we have chosen to donate to your care package cause.  We are part of the Daughters of The Utah Pioneers (DUP).  Thanks for all you do to bring hope and comfort to our troops.  We all pray for those in harms way and for peace to all mankind.  With heartfelt thanks for all you do.” (12/08)

. . . “Thank you for your tireless efforts.” (12/08)

. . . “Just a note to thank you for everything you do for the soldiers everywhere.  I enjoy sending packages to you for the soldiers.  I enjoy doing it and I know they appreciate the packages.  I have gotten thank you letters.” (12/08)

. . .”Thank you so much for all that you do for our troops.  It is so appreciated.” (11/08)

. . .”In thanks for all your “caring and sharing” in support of our troops, Laureate Beta Delta Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi, thanks you with our support and this donation.” (10/08)

. . .”Thanks for supporting our troops and service to our country.” (10/08)

. . .”Thank you so much for joining us this year for our “freedom walk.”  I’m so glad you received lots of donations.  Thank you for all you do!  Hope to see you next year.  All the best.” (9/08)

. . .”Please find enclosed our contribution to your fine organization.  It means a lot to those who are putting their lives on the line every day to our benefit.  We are impressed with what you are doing for our soldiers with so little. W would like to help as we can.  Thank you for your contributions to a much needed service to our soldiers.  Without your commitment you are making, this service would not be there.” (9/08)

. . .”Thank you for all that you do there.  Thane has made Eagle Scout now.  Thank you for a wonderful opportunity for Eagle Scout Projects and the great feeling it gives a person to help make a difference!” (5/08)

. . .”What a great organization.  Thanks for all you do!” (5/08)

. . .”We would like to thank you for ALL that you do for our brave Soldiers.  Your Web site and services were brought to our attention by our good Friend James.  For his Fifth birthday, in lieu of presents, he asked his friends to send the troops something instead.  So in honor of our friend, James and all the brave men and women fighting for our freedom, please accept this donation.”  (4/08)

. . .”We would like to thank you for ALL that you do for our brave Soldiers.  Your Web site and services were brought to our attention by our good Friend Sarah.  For her Eighth birthday, in lieu of presents, she asked her friends to send the troops something instead.  So in honor of our friend, Sarah and all the brave men and women fighting for our freedom, please accept this donation.”  (4/08)

. . .”God Bless you for all you do for the troops around the world.  I enjoy sending packages once in awhile to help make a difference to our troops around the world.” (4/08)

. . .”I hope this finds you well and in good spirits.  I read about an organization that sends packages to the enlisted overseas and thought I could do the same.  My son joined the Marines for two tours but was killed in a car crash before he could serve and I just know I would have been sending packages to him so in his honor this goes to you whom ever you may be.  I don’t know what you need or what you would like but hope some of the items in this little package are something you like or could use.  We all pray that all of our men and women are home soon and never have to go back.” (4/08)

. . .”Thanks for letting me be part of your wonderful program.” (4/08)

. . .”Thank you so much for allowing me to work with you and your organization.  It truly was a great experience." (3/08)

. . .”I would like to thank you for the great experience of working in the “U.S. Troop Care Package.”  It was a lot of fun and it gave me a chance to see how people take their time to help the people out in the army.  The best part of helping out there was talking to all the workers.  Some of them even told me they had someone they knew in the army.  They were all really nice to me.  It showed me how much these people care.  I would have loved to invite you to my presentation of my time helping out in the “U.S. Troop Care Package” but I have failed that part of my project.  I had a wonderful time helping out at the “U.S. Troop Care Package.”  So I would love to thank you for accepting me to give you guys an extra hand it was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life.  Thank You.” (2/08)  High School Student-Community Service Project

2007

. . .”Thanks to all of you for the great work you do for our troops.”  (12/07)

. . .”Thank you so much for all that you do, and God bless you in your endeavors.” (12/07)

. . .”With thankful hearts we appreciate all you do for our troops and their care.  We are so appreciative of your organization and the many volunteers that devote their time to this project.  May God Bless you and we all pray for his blessings on our Troops everywhere.” (11/07)

. . .”You came to our church, Calvary Chapel Tri-Cities, many Sundays ago and your presentation touched us so.  My husband and I want to contribute to your wonderful cause.  Our daughter is USMC and is currently studying Korean at the DLI in Monterey, CA.  We haven’t experienced deployment yet, but we are gearing up for it with in the next several months.  In the meantime, we’d like to help those already serving our country elsewhere.  Consider this a monthly gift!  God Bless you! (10/07)

. . .”I wasn’t able to tell you thank you for taking your time to come talk to us.  I’ve been wanting to let you know how much we all enjoyed your presentation on the troop care package. (I was kinda busy)  I hope we can get some things together to send you.  Thanks again and will you please send some patterns for the hats.  Thanks” (10/07)

. . .”Forgive my lateness in writing this thank you note.  The lateness in no way reflects a lack of appreciation for your time in coming to Sarah Circle at West Side Church earlier last month.  Learning about what a difference you, one person, has made in the lives of so many by stepping out to fill a need that incredibly was not being met anywhere else was an inspiration and a pleasure.  Being able to participate by bringing items for care packages was a blessing as well.  I certainly enjoyed giving of time and fabric to make the pillow cases I took to Howard Amon Park to give to you.  Knowing no one personally who is serving in the armed forces left me feeling very remote.  But now, imagining pillows from me giving comfort, I feel more involved.  Thank you for sharing yourself with us and getting us involved.” (10/07)

. . .”Our prayers are with you and your helpers and all the service men you help.  Thanks for all you do.” (9/07)

. . .”Thank you for speaking to Sarah Circle of Westside Church.  We were in awe of what your group has accomplished.  Hopefully, some of our ladies may be of help in the future.” (9/07)

. . .”Thank you for taking time today to come to Calvary Chapel.  Robert and I feel we needed to know what you are doing.  I will be calling you for more information.  God Bless You!” (8/07)

. . .”Thank you for all that you do in support of our troops.” (8/07)

. . .”Thank you for helping the troops.” (8/07)

. . .”We’re so proud of all that you are doing for our country and thank you for your sacrifices” (please include this thought).  Please accept the enclosed amount for Care Packages from Master Alpha Omega Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.  Thanks for the good work you are doing to support our troops.” (5/07)

. . .”A few weeks ago my wife was at the Post Office seeing you mail out packages to our troops. She asked what kind of help would most benefit your organization?  She was told that postage was the biggest hurdle to accomplish.  She came home and informed our small church congregation of this.  This past Sunday we took a vote to send you $ for this effort.  Keep up the good work and we will pray that we have success in our mission and that the troops will not have to be in Iraq for too many years.” (4/07)

. . .”Thank you for allowing me to contribute to our troops!  I appreciate all of your efforts.” (3/07)

. . .”Thank you for your care and concerns to help returning military personnel.” (3/07)

. . .”The U.S. Congress has stated they “support the troops.”  We would like to put our money where our mouth is and do the same.  Please accept the enclosed check to help those brave troops wherever it is needed.  God bless all of you!” (3/07)

. . .”Thank you for all that you do for our troops!” (3/07)

. . .”Thank you for what your organization does for our fine men and women.” (3/07)

2006

. . .”Thanks for all that you do for the troops.  Our “Antique Study Group” chose your project for our Christmas support again this year.  Thanks.”  (12/06)

. . .”Please accept this donation on behalf of our Dad, Walter Ullrich, Jr., New Jersey National Guard (Army), retired.  Dad has served his country honorably and is a staunch supporter of our troops in Iraq as well as the men and women that serve our country throughout the world.  Please use this donation towards a care package in support of our troops in Iraq.  We wanted to make this donation in his name as a gift to Dad for Christmas.  We couldn’t think of a better gift to give to him that would make him any happier.  We wish we could send more money; however the gratitude that goes along with this small donation is immeasurable for those that serve and sacrifice for our freedom and our country.  In closing, please note Dad’s name on the website as the Donor to this wonderful cause.  God Bless You.  God Bless Our Troops.  On Behalf of our Dad, Walter Ullrich, Jr. and our family, Thank you and Happy Holidays.”  (12/06) Mark and Jane Ullrich, NJ

. . .”Thanks again for all you do.  Of all the organizations, it is our opinion you are head and shoulders above he rest.  We first met you at the Mustang Car Show this fall and now received a great “Thank You” and information letter.  We are happy to enclose another check.  When our Marine was in Desert Storm we adopted his platoon and know what these Care Packages mean to our troops.   And while our packages were good, yours are great!  Happy Holidays.” (12/06)

. . .”Howdy from the Lone Star State.  This year the Emerson Elementary School Eagles participated in Operation $7.70.  We decided to celebrate Veteran’s Day a little differently.  Together teachers and students collected money to cover the cost of mailing care packages to our troops.  We wanted to honor those that are still fighting for our freedom and remember those that died fighting by joining your efforts to provide care packages for the men and women fighting in Iraq.  Thank you so much for what you do.  Please accept this gift from us and may it help to shop a lot of care packages.” (11/06)

. . .”The members of Pasco Laureate Beta Delta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi are pleased to donate to the Troop Care Package.  We hope this donation will help you to purchase postage for the shipping of the packages to our troops everywhere.  We are very proud to be a small part of this great cause.  Thank you for all that you do all year to keep our troops in touch with the U.S. and all the people who appreciate and support them in everything they do.”  (10/06)

. . .”Just wanted to say thank you for providing such a great service.  Keep up the great work.”  (10/06)

. . .”Thank you all for your efforts to ease our militaries needs.” (10/06)

. . .”We were impressed with your project Troop Care Package when we read about it in the Tri-City Citizen.  Here’s our small donation to help with mailing packages.  Thank you for caring.” (10/06)

. . .”Keep up the good work!!  In admiration of you and your co-workers.” (10/06)

. . .”Alpha Omega Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi in Prosser is most happy to donate toward postage when sending packages to our service men and women overseas who are serving their country.  God Bless them all!  And God Bless you for doing this.” (10/06)

. . .”Thank you for doing what you do for our kids!” (9/06)

. . .”I’m dedicated to your cause.  I will send and bring goods and lobby for more support.”  (9/06)

. . .”Thanks for doing a great job.” (9/06)

. . .”Good luck with this wonderful cause.  God Bless You all.” (9/06)

. . .”Thank you for all you continue to do for our troops – a truly wonderful effort.  Please accept the enclosed check which may help with postal costs.  And thank our courageous troops for their many sacrifices for all of us.”  (9/06)

. . .”Great Job.  God Bless You.”  (9/06)

. . .”Your group is doing an outstanding job.”  (9/06)

. . .”It was an honor to meet you yesterday and learn of the background and continual success stories of “U.S. Troop Care Package.”  You and members of your organization epitomize the importance and contributions of volunteerism in our society.  And what more deserving group is there to serve than our military who keep us free to engage in volunteerism by choice.  Thank you and your multitudes for YOUR SERVICE to our country.” (8/06) Former LCDR, USNR

. . .”Thanks for all you are doing for our troops.” (6/06)

. . .”Please accept this to help in the costs of the care packages.  Thanks so much for all that you do.” (5/06)

. . .”Thank you for attending our meeting and explaining abut the Troop Care Package program.  Enclosed is a check to help with the mailing costs of this program.”  (5/06)

. . .”The Past Kennewick Men of the Year wish you well in your efforts in working with our U.S. Troops abroad and your shipments of supplies to them.  Programs such as this are one of the many reasons Kennewick and the Tri-Cities continues to be an outstanding place to live.  Thank you once again for all your efforts for the service men and women of our community.” (5/06)

. . .”I want to thank you for having a program that my 4-H groups can participate in.  This has been our biggest project in 2 or 3 years.  We have all REALLY enjoyed being ale to help out with this WONDERFUL project!!!  Again THANK YOU sooooooo much for all your help!!!”  (5/06) Brandford County 4-H, District V 4-H, Florida 4-H, Bradford County Shooting Sports 4-H Club.

. . .”Keep up the good work!  Enjoyed your program at Kiwanis. (3/06)

. . .”The Rotary Trustees and Board of Directors have approved a donation for postage in mailing your care packages.  We value the work you do for our community in helping the people protecting our country.  We wish you success and appreciate your commitment to safety and positive experiences.  Your work has always been a very valuable asset in our community.  Thank you for your dedication.” (3/06)

. . .”We appreciate the time you took to inspire us with your wonderful presentations.  The service you give is appreciated by all of us and especially our troops.  Let us know how we can help.” (3/06)

. . .”Thank you so much for coming to our Beta Sigma Phi Group.  Your program was so informative.  Excellent presentation of needs and concerns.” (3/06)

. . .”Thank you so much for taking the time to visit with our “Red Hat” group the other day.  I’ve received a “thank you for taking me” from everyone who attended.  We went away very enthused.  I hope we can be of help.  What an interesting and rewarding afternoon.  Thanks again.” (2/06)

. . .”Thank you and the volunteers of U.S. Troop Care Package for helping to make the 2006 Benton-Franklin Dinner a success. The decorations you made and your display added to the theme I was looking for – The Military – putting the center piece on each table filled with items for our troops was wonderful.  It was hard work and will always be appreciated.” (2/06)

. . .”Many thanks for your time to present your program, we are still talking about it.  Plan on visiting your site and getting some gals together to volunteer.  Keep up the good work. I loved your expression “It’s a God thing.” (1/06)

. . .”I was pumped after your talk at Bingo City.  Came home and E-Mailed lots of friends and relatives.  Many responded “Great work.”  One asked for your address for a donation.  My niece sent me this:  One of Tom’s military retiree magazines says so many areas have boxes, etc. where troops can buy anything they need, but so many wish for prepaid phone cards.  I was telling women about your talk at a church women’s group Thursday nite and stopped because they said you’re speaking Monday at our senior’s group.  Am moving this week and work full-time but hope to help more this winter.  I told you I love to shop, so could help in that way.  Oh, a woman at my group said she went to a dollar store and bought $28 of stuff for you.  Woman asked who all these things were for and she told her.  She got the manager and he told her to pick out $28 more and gave it free.  Her co-worker’s son was the only survivor of 8 from a Humvee bomb the week before Christmas.  He was to arrive in Washington or Oregon Thursday and it is like a miracle how fast he’s healed from facial burns and other injuries.  All late 200’s-30’s and he was 2nd in command and suffering from “Why did I survive?” (1/06)

2005

. . .”Jan we congratulate you and your team on the work you have done and are doing.  We are pleased that our friend Sandra is teamed up with you too.  We praise her also.  Keep up the good work.  Thanks.”  (12/05)

. . .”Our son is in Kuwait so we know the importance of what you do.  Keep it up!”  (12/05)

. . .”Thanks for all of your efforts for the troops.  Merry Christmas.” (12/05)

. . .”Keep up the good work.”  (12/05)

. . .”In lieu of a Christmas gift for my boss, a donation is being made to your organization.”  (12/05)

. . .”Enclosed is a check from the Columbia Center Rotary Club for our support of the U.S. Troop Care Package program.  This program expresses the ideals of Rotary in “Service Above Self.”  The 2004-2005 Board of Directors passionately supports the use of these funds for postage to send Christmas Care Packages to our U.S. troops.  It is our hope that as you progress with this community and world service project that you keep Rotarians in mind if we can be of further assistance.  Columbia Center Rotary would like to thank all of you for your loving dedication to “our extended families throughout the world!” (12/05)

. . .”Thank you for the great job you are doing for our boys and girls.” (11/05)

. . .”Thanks to all of you who are volunteering your time, effort, and resources.” (11/05)

. . .”Keep up the good work.” (11/05)

. . .”With great appreciation for all that you do for our men and women who do so much more for us.” (11/05)

. . .”Enclosed please find eight pillows decorated by my Jr. Girl Scout Troop and my two kids.  Please forward to the troops hopefully in time for the holidays. 
Associated holiday cards made by some of the kids are attached to the pillows.  Thanks for organizing such a wonderful effort for our troops.” (11/05)

. . .”God Bless you, your work, and our troops.  Thank you for your work.” (10/05)

. . .”Here are just a few things for our troops.  Due to the Katrina disaster we haven’t sent anything lately.  With the holidays coming, you will see more packages from our small group.  We would like to express our gratitude to your organization for all that you do for our men and women serving around the world to ensure our freedoms here in the states.  As the mother of a soldier I know what it means for the troops to receive something from home.  Bless You!” (10/05)

. . .”Hello.  You guys are doing great work.  May God Bless you.  I hope this package made it in time for the Christmas pack out.  May God continue to bless our troops.” (9/05)

. . .”Enclosed is a check along with our heartfelt thanks for all that you do.  We are members of Laureate Beta Delta, a chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.  There are 12 members and we hope to bring items for the packages and to assist in filling them in November.  Thank you again.” (9/05)

. . .”Please accept this contribution to help with the special needs of our troops.  God bless all of the brave men and women who give so much of themselves to keep us safe.  Your effort is greatly appreciated.  Thank you.” (9/05)

. . .”Please accept these items for the troops.  I will try to send as I can each month for the pack outs.  Thank you for all you’re doing for our brave men and women.  God Bless.” (9/05)

. . .”My husband and I admire what you are doing for our men and women in the service so much.  We would like to make this small contribution to assist you.” (8/05)

. . .”We at South Park School (Illinois) appreciate you working with us to get the supplies we’ve collected for soldiers in Iraq.  Mrs. Gira and the 3rd grade also collected money for you which we hope will go to helping the soldiers.” (7/05)

NOTE:  The card was signed by about 20 children.

. . .”I found out about your work with the troops on the Tammy Bruce radio talk show web site.” (7/05)

. . .”Enclosed is our check for the Care Package fund.  Also enclosed are some thank you letters some of our grandchildren wanted to include.  We hope they will be forwarded and will bring encouragement.  Thank you for all your efforts for this project.” (7/05)

. . .”Here are some donations for “U.S. Troop Care Package.”  We hope these items that can be used by our troops overseas.  Thank you for the work you are doing for them.” (7/05)

. . .”We have been so blessed by God by living in this country that we are proud and honored to be able to donate goods for the soldiers at Walter Reed hospital.  Please use this money towards postage.  Thank you for all that you do.” (7/05)

. . .”Thank you for all you are doing.  We found this web site thru President Bush’s speech last night.” (7/05)

. . .”Please accept this small amount for now with my humble admiration.” (7/05)

. . .”Enclosed is a small donation to help you with care packages to our troops in memory of my husband Hirana Havens.  God Bless you all.” (5/05)

. . .”We attended the Senior Luncheon at Richland Lutheran Church yesterday and were very impressed with Jan’s presentation and all the information she gave us about your organization.  I am enclosing a self addressed stamped envelope.  Would you please send us several more of your brochures.  We would like to share with friends to pass along this information about your great work.  Thank you.” (5/05)

. . .”I would like to extend my appreciation to you for taking the initiative to start this program.  We need to support the men and women that are fighting for our freedom.  Thank You.”  (1/05)

. . .”Thank you for your beautiful letter and for sharing the letters from Capt. Collins.  His letters were so very real and touching.  Of course, I shed some tears!  You did not request donations, but am sure they won’t be refused either.  Enclosed is a small one that I hope helps wherever it is needed.  I wish I could help but my physical problem and pain will not allow it.  So about the only way I can help is by donations.  I feel so guilty of not being able to give time and labor, please forgive me.  Thank you many times to you and your helpers for the outstanding work you do.  God’s blessings are with you.” (1/05)

. . .”On behalf of Thundering Hooves 4-H Club we would like to present your wonderful organization with a check.  Our club members this summer earned $200 at their club sponsored car wash and voted at their December meeting to donate to U.S. Troop Care Package.  In the spring of 2003 our girls assisted you in assembling care packages in your storage unit.  That experience was such a positive and rewarding one for the girls, thank you for allowing them to be of service to you.  I know they came home so very excited about what was being done for our troops and being able to have a small part in that.  It is so encouraging as a parent and 4-H leader to see an understanding of the importance of “service” blossom in the children!  Thank you again for that opportunity.  If you could use our club’s working hands again, let us know what the possibilities might be.  I know they have talked about wanting to do something again for your organization.  God Bless you, our troops, and this great country in the New Year! (1/05)

. . .”Please accept this donation on behalf of Control Point Solutions’ clients.  In lieu of traditional holiday gift baskets and gifts, we decided to put the money allotted to a much worthier cause.  We respect what our troops are doing, and appreciate your efforts to support our troops.  Could you please post Control Point Solutions’ Clients on your website as a donor?  It would be very appreciated.” (1/05)

. . .”Your organization provides a wonderful service to support our troops who put themselves in harm’s way to defend freedom throughout the world.  Thank you for giving people on the home front a way to show our appreciation to our troops.” (1/05)

. . .”Many thanks for the copies of Captain Quentin D. Collins letter.  Do keep up the wonderful job.  Check enclosed to help.  God Bless.” (1/05)

2004

. . .”We are thankful to those military personnel that are fighting for freedom.” (12/04)

. . .”Thank you for what you’re doing for our troops.  Regards.” (12/04)

. . .”Hello! This year instead of exchanging gifts my family is supporting our troops!  Thanks so much for making this possible.  God Bless and Happy Holidays.” (12/04)

. . .”Merry Christmas to all.  Thanks for all you and all the helpers do.” (12/04)

. . .”I wanted to contribute something to help with your endeavor.  I think it is truly commendable for all that you do in helping the military who are stationed a long way from home.  Thank you for enclosing the information and photos from Quentin D. Collins, Chaplin Captain.  It certainly helped me realize how important and useful the pillows are the members of our troops.  I am glad you shared them with me.  Enclosed is some fabric that I cut into 13 inch squares.  Also enclosed are thread, and a check for some fiberfill.  I hope you will be able to put it all to good use.  We appreciate what our men and women are doing for our country.  I do hope this helps out.” (12/04)

. . .”Thanks for all you do!” (12/04)

. . .”I am an American living in London, England and found you guys on the internet.  Your efforts and support of our guys in Iraq is humbling and inspiring.  Maybe one of the packages will reach my cousin R. Barrett who is a Marine training Iraqi police! (He is from Potomac, Maryland)” (12/04)

. . .”Thank the troops and tell them we love them.” (12/04)

. . .”I read about you as a result of President Bush’s speech to the Marines in Camp Pendleton in California yesterday.  What a wonderful ministry!!!  I pray that you’re flooded with support from the American people.  Please accept this check in honor of Jesus’ birthday to go towards Operation Comfort to be used for any aspect of the comfort pillows (material, fiberfill or postage).  The feedback from the soldiers on this gift really touched my heart.  I will send items from your shopping list also but wanted to go ahead and get this check in the mail so it can start to work.  Thank you for your time, energy and effort to bless our wonderful soldiers.” (12/04)

. . .”Please accept my check as my part in your blessing to the troops.  Also, please enclose the three hand-written letters to be put in Care Packages as you see fit.  Thanks for your love in this time of war!” (12/04)

. . .”Please use this money to mail packages to our U.S. soldiers.  Thank you for the great work you are doing and have a Merry Christmas!” (12/04)

. . .”God Bless Our Troops.” (12/04)

. . .”Thank you very much for what you are doing for our troops overseas.  Here is my small donation for whatever you want to do for them.  I’m a retired person, depending only on my SS benefits, but I have my only son in Iraq.  If you have a chance please send him a care package.  Again thank you very, very much and God keep blessing you.” (12/04)

. . .”In the names of our two grandsons, we would like to donate $80 toward the “Care Packages” for “Project Walter Reed” and “Personal Care” and/or “Food Items” for our fighting troops away from their loved ones during this coming Holiday Season.  Merry Christmas to One and All! ” (12/04)

. . .”Please accept this contribution for our troops abroad.  We are deeply grateful for their service and they are in our prayers.” (12/04)

. . .”We are just a small R.V. group and hope this will help to get some packages overseas to our troops.” (12/04)

. . .”Enclosed is our check to be used as you desire.  It isn’t much but every little bit helps.  I just wish we could give more but we are a small group and are trying to do the best we can.  God Bless all of you.” (11/04)

. . .”Cable Bridge Zips Restaurant is very proud of our men and women in the service.  Nothing is more important than our freedom and our veterans.” (11/04)

. . .”Thank you to all of you folks!  God Bless you for your efforts to express our support of our Armed Forces!  Please use the enclosed $ in your efforts.  May the Lord continue to Bless and encourage you in this task! (11/04)

. . .”Hope this will help out-you are doing a great service.  Thanks! (11/04)

. . .”Please use the enclosed check for postage, misc. items, as needed.  Thanks again for all your group does for our troops! (11/04)

. . .”Thank you for all you are doing.  Hope this will help a little.  God Bless.  (11/04)

. . .”Please use this donation for postage supplies whatever you need.  Thank you for all that you do.”  (8/04)

. . .”Just a note to say Thanks to all the volunteers who are working so hard to support our troops.  You are doing a great job.  Keep up the good work!...A community member.”  (8/04)

NOTE:  This message was contained within a colorful “Thank You” card.

. . .”Great article in the Tacoma News Tribune about the Care Packages.  As a military family we certainly support your work.  Please accept the donation to help.”  (7/04)

. . .”Thank you for what you do for the soldiers!  Read the article in the July 21st, 2004 Tacoma News Tribune and wanted to contribute a few things to our wonderful, brave soldiers!  I don’t know/have anyone in the military, but I really love them.!!”  (7/04)

. . .”Enclosed is the article from the July 21st Tacoma News Tribune.  I am also enclosing a small check to help with your efforts.  As I told you, if you have a need for used books, I would be happy to ship some myself, saving you the postage.  Bless you for your good work.”  (7/04)

. . .”It’s wonderful what you are doing!  God Bless you.”  (7/04)

. . .”Dear Jan, you all are doing such a wonderful job.  I’m very proud of you and your crew.  Affectionately, Peter.”  (7/04)

. . .”Thank you for doing this.  Use our donation where it is needed.” (6/04)

. . .”Please accept this check to help with the U.S. Troop Care Package.  And let us thank you for your hand work in this cause.” (4/04)

. . .”Please accept this donation to help you continue your wonderful ministry.  Our son is in Iraq now, he’ll be there until February 2004.  We put his name on your list.”  (4/04)

. . .”Tri-Cities Chapter 46 of the Disabled American Veterans would like to help support the Troop Care Package program with an enclosed donation to use where it will do the most good to help serve our Troops.” (4/04)

. . .”Enclosed is a check.  We hope this will help in mailing packages to our troops.  Thank you for all you do!”

. . .”A member of the Grange brought the newspaper article to our meeting on Friday.  The seventeen members who attended the Friday night meeting decided to hold a collection at that meeting and donate money to your cause.  We hope that this small donation will be helpful to your cause.”

. . .”I am so happy that someone is trying to help the injured military.  Do keep up the excellent program.  God Bless.”

. . .”I wish this check could be for 100 times as much but at least I will do what I can and “Thank each of you!” for your commitment to our boys and our country.  I can only do my small part because you stood up and made it possible.  I thank our Lord Jesus for such as you!  Especially J. Sass!  The initiator of this group!  Your friend, In Christ, and may our God Bless America!”

. . .”Enclosed is a donation for our soldiers at Walter Reed.  Use it for whatever you wish.  Thank you.”

. . .”Please use this contribution for postage for the care packages to vets at Walter Reed.  We admire your “hard giving work.”  God Bless.”

. . .”Thank you for the job you are doing for our troops.  Enclosed is my check to help with the recent project for injured soldiers’ recovery in the hospital.”

. . . “You are angels to these troops.”

. . . “A big thank you for the great job you and your help are doing for our troops over in Iraq!  It means so much for everyone concerned.  Take care.  God Bless.”

. . . “Thank you for organizing everything for such a worthwhile cause.  God Bless America!”

. . . “Thanks for all your time and energy.”

. . . “You are creating a way for others to help that feels personal.  Thank you!”

. . . “Thanks for helping us show our U.S. Troops how much we appreciate them and their service to our country.”

. . . “Keep up the good work.”

. . . “Thank you to each and every one of you.  Wish we could do more.”

. . . “Thank you for your efforts.”

. . . “Wish we could do more at this time and hope this helps.  You are doing such a great thing.”

. . . “Thank you for the opportunity (to donate).”

. . . “Thanks for all you are doing.”

. . . “I am against the war, but proud of our service-men!  Thank you for all your hard work and efforts to help them.  Best of luck, God Bless you!”

. . . “My 88 year old grandmother living with me donated $5 of this money.  Keep up the great work, and God Bless.”

. . . “My husband was a WWII Veteran with the 82nd Airborne in Europe.  Keep up the good work and keep pushing for more money to send out the accumulation of Care Packages you now have in storage and are ready to be sent.  These Troopers need us to stand behind them.”

. . . “Thanks for what you are doing!”

. . . “Thank you for your hard work.”

. . . “Please find enclosed a small check to help in a small way to send your packages to our fighting men and women overseas.  What a wonderful thing you are doing.  I have a son who spent two tours of duty in Vietnam and how much he and his buddies enjoyed the packages we sent from home.  Keep up the good work and know how having people like you here helps loved ones over there.”

. . . “Keep up the good work.”

. . . “Thank you for what you are doing.”

. . . “God Bless you.”

. . . “Thank you so much for doing this for my son and his company.  This really lets them know that not only parents are caring for them, but everyone else is too.”

. . . “Thank you for organizing this thoughtful project!”

. . . “May the good Lord Bless you folks for everything you are doing to make sure our troops receive care packages.”

. . . “I appreciate all you have been doing to support our troops.  God bless you all.”

. . . “Thank you for what you are doing on behalf of our troops.  May God bless you all and your families.”

. . . “Keep up the good work!  Thanks!!”

. . . “A great service you are doing.”

. . . “Thank you for your service.”

. . . “Please accept this small token of appreciation for your efforts in support of our troops.  I wish you the best of luck in your efforts to provide Care Packages to our active troops.”

. . . “What a great job you are doing!!”

. . . “Thank you so much for your effort on behalf of our troops.”

. . . “Enclosed is our check to help with your work.  It’s a wonderful thing you are doing.”

. . . “We hope this will help for a “Wonderful Cause.”

. . . “Good job folks.  Thanks for all the hard work.”

. . . “After reading about what you are doing for our service people, I felt the Lord directed me to help you.  May the Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you and guide you and all the people helping you, and give you super natural strength to perform your tasks.  Bless you all.”

. . . “We are planning to send packages to our son but we want soldiers who may not have families who are able to do this to have what they need to make life a little better for them.  We appreciate your efforts in supporting our troops.”

. . . “Hope this will help a little to send packages.  Please let us know if you need more and we will try to help.”

. . . “I hope this will help you mail your packages.  It is a God given thing you are doing.  God speed your efforts.”

. . . “I just sold a sewing machine I no longer used, so I’m sending you the money.  I’m 83 years old.  I hope this helps.”

. . . “As a former Navy man I know what packages and personal letters from home mean.”

. . . “Enclosed is a check to help with the mailing of packages to our service men and women in Iraq.  I know how much care packages and personal letters mean to our service people.  I am the widow of a Navy Pearl Harbor survivor and a veteran of the Korean conflict.  God Bless you for the work you are doing.”

. . . “I received a package like yours while in Vietnam and it made a great impression on me that people back home really cared about me.  Thank you for your effort.”