Dated 30 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

FROM B COMPANY, DSTB, 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION (from Ft Drum, NY)

- Hello. I wanted to thank your organization, Give2TheTroops, for your kindness for sending the care packages. I am in charge of the Analysis and Control Element for the 10th Mountain Division Headquarters here in xxxx (OPSEC), Iraq. I have xxxx (OPSEC) Soldiers Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Civilians working in this section. The folks here have enjoyed your care package items very much. It is a huge morale booster for the men and women here and they all have appreciated the time and effort spent on thinking of us here in Iraq. Sincerely,
LTC William G. McDonough

- Thank you so much for taking the time to show us your support! Happy Holidays.
CPT Natalie Banach, G2

- Thank you! We appreciate you!
SPC Siriwan Mobley, G2

- Thank you for supporting the troops!
William Vaughan

- Thank you for your support. Everything that you have done for us is greatly appreciated. It means the world to us to know that there are supporters out there like you.
Sincerely,
G2 Fusion Section

- Thanks for your dedicated support to all deployed troops, to include the 10th Mountain Division to which I'm attached. I admire your hard work to make such an impact on so many thousands of troops deployed forward.
MSG Paula Johnson - DAC, US Army Ret., G2 ACE

- Thank you for thinking of us and sending over the great food, goodies and other necessities. Everything is much appreciated and everyone acts differently when packages come into the office. You can see by the expression on their faces that they are happy to see what you have sent. Every day here is now like Christmas. Thank you from some of the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division G2 ACE. Thank you again for all that you have done for us! Wishing you the best in all you do!
Gary Howell

- Thank you for all the goodies you have sent us. They were well received. I wish you and your families a New Year full of love and happiness. Thank you for your support.
Victoria Magoun

- Thank you very much for sending gifts to us. That as very nice of you. I love Americans whether they support us or turn their backs. Your organization is doing the right thing. God Bless you all in 2009 and always.
SSG Christopher M. MacHarrie

Dated 29 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!!

I just wanted to say thank you for everything that you have given my unit while I've been out here for the past year. We greatly appreciate everything you have done for us and all the support you have given us. I can't even imagine how much time and effort it takes to run your organization. We are heading back stateside soon and I just wanted to ensure that you guys were notified!! I am with MWCS 38 in the USMC.

Thank you for everything!!



Love,
Sgt Cassandra Jorgensen
MWCS 38, Unit 41137
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello! I received one of your packages. Thank you very much. I really enjoyed the goodies. It's nice to be remembered at Christmas time. Many other soldiers in my unit received your packages as well. Unfortunately, since we are a military intelligence battalion we are spread out in very small teams all over Iraq and Afghanistan and it would be nearly impossible to send a unit picture with our stockings. I'm sorry. But here is our unit's picture from Kuwait.



Thanks again for taking the time to remember us. Happy Holidays.

SPC Victoria Cisneros, Legal/EA HHC
303d Military Intelligence Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 27 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

To all of you at Give2theTroops, thanks for the boxes this Christmas. I could hardly believe the generosity of so many people I didn't know, and I was glad to be able to share it with the many fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians who are serving with me here at the Corps headquarters.

I especially appreciated the box of golf balls! We have an improvised driving range that I use for stress relief occasionally as the attached photo shows. I know how much time and effort it must take to get all of these boxes filled and sent, and I just want you to know that I appreciate it.

Your support for the troops means a lot, coming from one who is actually old enough to remember Vietnam days (OK, so I was just a kid, but I still remember).



Thanks again, and God bless you, your staff, and the volunteers.

LTC Gregory Graves
MNC-I, C5 Assessments, XVIII Airborne Corps
U.S. Army

Dated 27 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all the help, we could not have done it without you. I am not sure if you saw an e-mail from my Sergeant Major (SgtMaj Milton). He was going to e-mail you to tell you thank you so much for the HUGE gift that you sent to us. I wanted it to be a surprise you receiving an e-mail from him regarding the PS3 system you gave us. I have attached pictures of the SgtMaj with the gift!

As soon as the Marines saw it and the CO, they were just amazed, he announced it to everyone that it would go in our duty room for all to enjoy when they are back in their rooms relaxing. The duty room is a room next to all the Marines' rooms. We do not have a rec room but the duty room will now be that as well. A Marine has donated his television and the PS3 system will be in there.

The Give2TheTroops Marine Corps stockings were hung in Marines' offices throughout the spaces. They were given to individual Marines and they hung them. I will take pictures of the PS3 at the duty room.... you cannot believe how excited the Marines are.

The Christmas party was a great success thanks to all of you, not to me. I was just the middle man, I was the laborer. I don't think I told you guys this but at least once I stayed up until 2 am sorting out the gifts and once I stayed up until 6 am.... Had to get up at 8 am that morning to ensure critical taskers got done. It never bothered me. I wanted to make sure the gifts were organized, ensuring all received at least one gift and also was separating the gifts to send to our Marines that were not here and also had to ensure to pack the all the gifts to send to them... it reached them safely. Not one gift missed. Man, was it a miracle!!! Like I tell my Marines, GySgts don't sleep; they go back to their room and study, drill and conduct physical training. We stay up to look over the junior Marines that watch over our country. But in reality, our job is never done because if it was, there would be no need for Marines.

The Christmas Party was a blast and you could just feel in the air that it was a quiet happiness, it wasn't jamming out to music, it wasn't loud, it wasn't chaotic. The evening was filled with Christmas music playing, burgers and hot dogs on the grill, people playing video games, some people playing basketball. There was a peaceful calmness not expected when a lot of Marines get together. Many Marines were sitting around just talking to each other, groups of 3-5 were formed just sharing stories and just enjoying the evening. You could tell people were calm. Like you would expect when you're at home during Christmas; just relaxing with no problems insight. I was looking around and you could tell that the seniors were conversing with the juniors, juniors talking to juniors and smiling. Many came up to me thanking me for everything and you could tell in their eyes they didn't mind being in Iraq.

Nearly everyone came up to me and personally said "thank you" to me and shook my hand with a great big smile. I want you to know that "thank you" wasn't to me. That "thank you" was to all of you, that handshake was to all of you and that burger I had was for all of you.

I may not be able to give you much more than a letter of gratitude as there are many of you (and I do mean many of you!!), but please know that you guys made it possible.

You have made many Marines happy and they are talking about Madden tournaments tonight!!! I think I could beat them.

Thank you again,   

GySgt. Jesus Deniz, Squadron Gunnery Sergeant
HMH-466 S-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hi there, I wanted to let you know that we received your package. The soldiers were very excited to open it and to go through the goodies you sent. It is difficult to be away from our families, but we believe it is for a good cause. Thank you for your kindness. Have a great day!

VR,

CW2 Edgar (Eddie) Contreras, Shops Tech Supply OICO
D/1-10 Aviation Regiment (Attack)
U.S. Army

Dated 26 December, 2008
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We appreciate what you do for us in support of the troops. We appreciate it greatly. Thanks again for all the books and supplies!

Capt John Creighton
379 Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (EAMXS/MX)
U.S. Air Force

Dated 26 December, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I'd like to give sincere thanks to you all for the care package! We are located in Kuwait where we do helicopter repairs. We are more fortunate than some of the other locations, but many of the items that you provided are not available to us, so they are additionally appreciated. Your organization's support is a tremendous morale booster for us. Not only do we get cool stuff that we need, but it's proof that Americans of all ages support the troops out here.

On behalf of my unit, I thank you all and Sandy Dearborn (from your Connecticut Branch), for all that you do for us! I will ensure that the items are shared and distributed unit-wide. God Bless you and please know that your efforts do not go unnoticed.

With Sincere Gratitude,

SSG Donald P. Boisvert, Aircraft Engine Inspector
TF AVCRAD
Noth Carolina Army National Guard

Dated 25 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is PFC David J. McKim I'm just replying to your care packages you sent to SGT Israel Castilleja and my unit. We all appreciate all the hard work you put into these packages and hope you can keep sending them in the future if you can. We all work very hard to do our best at our jobs and to keep the United States safe. We will all come home safely so don't even worry!

Your care packages help out everyone because it shows that people do care for their soldiers and gives us all a little more motivation to keep our heads in the game. I enjoy a lot of different activities from playing magic the gathering card game to HALO 33 on the x-box 360 system you sent us. My army buddies also play with me on our off time, which is awesome.

I'm married and have one1 kid, they of course are sad that I'm away, but they have confidence that I'll come home safely.

Thanks again for all your support and hope to see more of your boxes in the future!

Take care,

Sincerely,
PFC David J. Mckim
HHB 2-146 FA
U.S. Army

Dated 21 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Colorado Branch),

Dated 19 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to say thank you. I am a linguist and I work with the U.S. Army in xxxxx, (OPSEC) Iraq.

Again, thanks a million. Have a nice day.

Hussein Elbeir  
Iraqi Linguist

Dated 18 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello all:

I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of you the best holiday season possible before you all scatter to the winds to visit family and friends.  I also wanted to remind you of the significant impact of your thoughts, prayer, contributions, and support has made on our Marines.  Regardless of our personal convictions of any war or conflict, the nation must stand together and unite as one in order to achieve our common goals.  I post your cards, letters, and distributed your gifts for all of our Marines.  Although I have never met any of you, you have made a lasting impression and made our time here more tolerable. 

I have sometimes questioned my decision to come back to Iraq when I could have simply retired and blended back into society.  However, it is people like you and the Marines that I serve with that remind me why I'm here. 

To date more than 4,200 service members have made the ultimate sacrifice here in Iraq and will never see the end results of what they were fighting for.  Although in the future of America they will fade away as a statistic, I can assure you they are never forgotten. Most of the buildings on military bases are named after our heroes, places such as honorary walls at every unit, the memorials across the country, and the people they served with will carry their spirits forever.  In every building I have worked in, the walls are adorned with the photos and memories of our fallen comrades. 

To your Founder, Andi Grant: This message was designed especially for you.  All too often, wives, sisters, and mothers are left at a moment's notice when the men run to the call of duty.  Your sacrifices are often overlooked as you perform all of the duties and responsibilities in a household that are normal shared.  On the other hand, we cannot forget that we also have our own females that serve side by side with their male counterparts out here.  I have 10 in my company for example.  All too often we focus on the "fighting man" and omit those at home that have to endure many sacrifices as well.  Thank you for all that you do. 

In the end, I want you to know that you have touched the hearts and minds of the Marines who serve here with me.  Your dedication and support helps us push forward when the future is uncertain.  Whether I live to be a hundred or die tomorrow, you have made a difference.  I wish and pray that each of you receive all the joy in life that you deserve and that your dreams for the holiday come true. 

It has been my heartfelt honor just to know you even if only through letters or e-mails.  We are halfway through our deployment and although our Marines are out on missions everyday, we have not lost nor had a Marine wounded in action.  I attribute that to your prayers.  So for this Christmas I ask not for any material object for me or my Marines, but simply ask that you take a moment to say a prayer for the safe return of our Marines and all service members to their families and loved ones.  I am a firm believer that it works.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!       

Semper Fi,
 
1stSgt Scottie Lee Bowden, H&S Company 1stSgt
9th ESB, Unit 38432
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 18 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks so much for all the things you've sent us.  G2TT has now provided us with enough Christmas decorations to decorate our camp, and thanks to you we also have enough goodies to give to everyone!!! You even sent my favorite peanut butter and a Maxim calendar, and toys for the kids, and snacks and so much more!!!

G2TT is truly an organization that "Supports" the Troops! 

Thank You.

Respectfully,

Dated 17 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you again so very much for all of your support throughout the year. And thank you for the recent holiday box you sent my unit - full of goodies.

The DVDs, X-Box games and Playstation 2 games were a particularly big hit with the guys. So if you ever run across more of those, please be sure to send them to us!

Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

God Bless,

Sincerely Yours,
MA2 Michael A. Reddington
Task Group Trident
U.S. Navy

Dated 17 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

FROM B Company, DSTB 10th MOUNTAIN DIVISION, U.S. ARMY:

Thank you for your support! We received your holiday care packages! And we wish you all a wonderful holiday season!
SPC William Hess

Thank you for all the goodies you sent to us through SPC William Hess! We hope you have a good holiday season.
With our thanks and warmest wishes for a bright and happy holiday.
SSG Andy Ellis

Thank you for all that you do for the troops. We appreciate everything you send us out here. Have a great holiday season.
Daniel L. Minahan

Thank you for all your support. Your generosity has overwhelmed us here in Iraq. Thank you for taking time out of your day to send us care packages. Nothing can display my gratitude. Thanks a lot.
SPC Todd Rump

Thank you so much for all of your support! All of us here really appreciate it. May happiness fill your holidays and New Year, too.
Mike Baber

Dated 17 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm an Airman in the United States Air Force and I wanted to send at least a thank you card to you! I have received one of your care packages and it made me smile. What you're doing is truly amazing and a great accomplishment! You have no idea how HUGE of a deal it is what you're doing by sending us care packages. You've managed to put smiles on troops' faces and made the fact that we are overseas during the holidays much easier for us.

It's truly an amazing feeling knowing that we have such supportive and understanding Americans at home. I'd like to thank your Founder, Andi's, husband for serving too. Somebody's got to do the job and he stepped up. Mrs. Grant should be proud of herself for starting Give2TheTroops. Please give her this message: "Thank you for being you! You're one of a kind!"

Words can never explain how thankful we all really are because of what you're doing. THANK YOU SO MUCH!

I hope you enjoy the holidays with your families.

May God Bless you!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE 386TH EXPEDITIONARY WING!

A1C Lucy Hernandez
386 ESFS, Security Forces
U.S. Air Force

Dated 15 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you all so much for all of your support throughout the year. It really means a lot to us.

Love,

Mike

MA2 Michael A. Reddington
Task Group Trident
U.S. Navy

Good Afternoon!

Here is a thank you letter that I typed for you on behalf of my unit:

Respectfully Sent,
LCpl Christopher P. Campbell
MSG Detachment New Delhi
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 15 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FOM AFGHANISTAN!

Thank you for the holiday care package you sent to SSgt Reuben McBroom and our 3/8 India Company, 2nd Platoon. We appreciated it and want to wish you all a Merry Christmas. We are mailing you photos of us - they are en route to you. Please keep up the good work!

Thank you all!
LCpl Mike Woodall
3/8 India Co., Unit 73255
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 15 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

LTC Horace Bowden and the
402D AFSB, 3RD ESC LSE
U.S. Army

Dated 12 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

To all who have supported us, this thank you is for all of you.




God bless,
1LT Eric Kuyper
337th Signal Company, TF Warrior
U.S. Army

We received another box from you today and the guys loved it.  The stockings were great! We hung them up with the other stockings we have received from our families.  Our break tent is just about full of stockings and X-Mas decorations! They really loved the batteries and DVD’s. It’s nice to watch some new movies every now and then.  I opened your box up and within an hour, the guys have raided the box and there is very little left. It's nice just to get little things like a new toothbrush, soap, or even something to snack on. 

Once again, I can’t begin to say how much we love you and your organization for providing for us during our deployment.   During the holiday season, it is so wonderful to receive gifts and packages like the ones you send out on a daily basis.  It makes being so far from home a little easier to get through - especially during this time of year.

Thanks for all you do and I know everyone you touch is thankful that you do what you do, too.

Dated 13 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm really happy that you sent us those holiday care packages. We ate for THREE DAYS - just from the items you sent in the boxes! Those protein body bars helped a lot also. My whole Platoon got something out of the boxes. They were really enjoyable.
 
Thank you for everything.

I hope you all have a great holiday.

Your U.S. Army Soldier,



SPC Travis John Hoyle
64 BSB, 3rd BCT/ 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 12 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I received a package today that made me want to hug the mail clerk. Thank you very much! Do you have an angle tree because I wanted to put my children on it so they could get something for Christmas! Could you send me some info from East Carolina University on a degree in education, nursing, and psychology?

Thank you to everyone for everything,

SGT Rosemonde D'Haiti
601 ASMC
U.S. Army

Thanks for sending out the care packages. All of the Marines' faces lit up like Christmas when they were opened. The supplies you sent will not go to waste and are greatly appreciated. Thanks again.
GySgt Kenneth M. Mabe, Airframes Division Chief

My name is Sgt Derek Carpenter. I am a mechanic on the V-22 Osprey. We recently received some packages full of some great stuff that we could all really use and I just wanted to say thank you for the stuff. We all appreciate it. Again, thank you very much for the packages.
Cpl Derek L. Carpenter

Thank you for everything y'all sent us, it was extremely appreciated.
LCpl Timothy S. Carlton, Jr.

My name is SSgt April Ceballos, I got some of the items that you sent to Sgt Hoyle, and I just want to say thank you for everything.  My Marines and I greatly appreciate everything you’ve done for us.  Once again thank you so much.  Take care, God Bless.
SSgt April M. Ceballos

Dated 10 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

We received the packages that you mailed out today. I must say that you shouldn't have, you sent out way too much. It was great to get all those items. You gave everyone in here a smile from ear to ear. It was like watching my daughters opening gifts during Christmas. Sgt Matthew Hoyle and a few of the Junior Marines opened the boxes and were proud. They had their chests puffed and seemed very humbled to get such gifts. I tell you that we have gotten packages before, but nothing close or as nice as the stuff that you sent to us. You have hearts the size of Texas! You even gave a smile to one of the Marines here ... a smile that I would have never thought possible, and he was ear to ear as well and that was me. I am old and mean, from what the Marines tell me. I guess being with the grunts for 7 years will do that.

Sgt Hoyle has told me that your founder's husband has been over here a few times, I hope he returned home safely as well. I have been over here 3 times now. It gets better every time. I came over here in the beginning and wow that was crazy, then I was here a year later. The second time I got to see the improvements that were built on our shoulders from the first time. I decided to change jobs so that I could fly and now I am over here for the 3rd time, and well I see a good place. Since I fly on the MV-22 Osprey I have been able to fly all over this place and see what we have done and the great work our military has done.

Well I have a little work to take care of and I still need to call my wife and kids today. I must say though, that I am humbled to see what you did for the Junior Marines here. You have given them a good day here, and those types of days are far and in between for these young guys who have left there families for the first time.

I am grateful to all of of you and your friends, donors, and volunteers for doing everything that you have done for us.

Thanks to you and yours,
SSgt Matthew A. McLellan, Crew Chief/ Aerial Gunner
VMM 266 Maintenance Control
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!

I just received four care packages from you and more stuff than I could have imagined!!  There was enough for the entire Maintenance Division.  You should have seen it.  Everyone was scrambling to get the items of their choice.  It was like children in a candy store.  It is truly amazing that your organization and your fellow volunteers would take so much time, energy, and money to support us out here.  Words are not enough.  I could never repay you for the impact you just made. 

Attached is a photo for you. SSgt Hiller is on the right and me on the left.  We passed out the items you sent.  Please send my “thanks and appreciation” along with the entire VMM 266 Fighting Griffins' “Thank You's” for all that you all did.  It truly means a lot!  You are great Americans! 

Your Friend,

Sgt Matthew M. Hoyle
VMM 266 Maintenance Control
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

My name is Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) Jay Morgan. I am the person who requested care packages for my USAF service men and women currently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.  I would like to personnel thank you all and your staff for putting smiles on my Airmen’s faces during this holiday season.

We receive our U.S. Mail every night around 8:00 PM - right after my nightly maintenance meeting.  Besides talking about aircraft status, we (old supervisors) also talk about the morale and welfare of our troops.  Some of the deployed squadrons were unaware of such organizations like yours.  Well, this is where I come in to play in the sharing department by spreading your G2TT care packages wealth to other squadrons on the base.  My troops really appreciate your support and I assure you none of the items sent will go to wayside.  A few of my troops collectively decided to spread your gratitude to US Servicemen, DoD Civilians, and Contractors traveling through the passenger terminal and USO located on our base.  Your organization's name was placed above the display along with your web site just in case they wanted to respond.

Once again, the men and women of the 75th Expeditionary Aircraft maintenance Unit humbly say “THANK YOU” for your support.

SMSgt Jay Morgan
455 EAMXS (A-10)
U.S. Air Force

Dated 10 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would just like to thank you for doing what you do for us!  It means so much to receive things from back home.  I received the package and it was a hit with the troops.  We ended up finding some old baseball gloves back in an abandoned building about 2 weeks ago so we ended up playing ball that night with the bat and balls you sent.  It sure was a good distraction with all that is going on around us.  I just want to send a little note to thank you all for sending us a great care package.

TSgt Mike Rooney
332 ESFS/SFOB
U.S. Air Force

Dated 8 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received yet another package from your group - thanks so much. As it turned out, it came just in time to catch a couple of Marines from my platoon who are at a remote location. We pooled items from your various packages and sent them back north with a good supply for the small number of Marines we have up there. Again, thank you for all you have done for me and for the rest of the service members here.

Ed

CWO-4 Edward M. Williams, Engineer Ordnance Maintenance Platoon Commander
1st Maint. Bn, Maint. Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We received a box full of Christmas today from our back home!! Our team is spread out everywhere, but I will make sure everyone gets what was put together for them. We have been so busy. I know I speak for the whole team when I say that the holidays have come up and are going by faster than we can keep up with!! I'm not sure who specifically at Give2TheTroops organized the assembly of our personal box of cheer, but please relay to them on behalf of our unit, a very heartfelt thank you and Merry Christmas too.

Thanks for taking the time to be so thoughtful and generous. We are truly grateful.

V/R,

SSG Rodney G. Little c/o Major Michelle G. Tope
xxxxx Battalion (unit information withheld as per OPSEC)
U.S. Army

Dated 8 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to send a special thanks to all who assisted in all the time and effort.  We wanted to start off by saying that we appreciate all the care packages that your organization sent to us.  All the Marines are enjoying all the candy, hygiene gear and games, which are really putting smiles on their faces.  The dedication and support from all the people back home works wonders and reminds us of why we put the uniform on everyday.  It lets us know that our efforts do not come unnoticed. 

We will be sending pictures and Christmas Cards to your organization.  Please send our deepest appreciation to all the children who took the time out of their daily schedule to write us and make the Christmas Cards.  Please pass on to all our sincere gratitude.

Again our deepest appreciation for everything. 

Happy Holidays,

MSgt Armando Valdez and the Marines of
MWSS-373/ AGS DET
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 7 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Colorado Branch),

Dated 2 December, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

We just received a care package from you mailed in early August.  Our Soldiers appreciate it.  I'm sure you've heard the same from others that getting mail is extremely important to the morale of Soldiers.  It probably took a while to get to us because we changed bases and getting mail here is sometimes difficult.  It's great because we don't have a post exchange or anywhere to get certain items except.

Your package was included with all the mail and most of the snacks are already gone.  On behalf of my fellow Soldiers, we appreciate everything you and other patriotic Americans are doing to support us and other service members.

Thank you. 

Very respectfully,
CPT Manuel Duenas
U.S. Army National Guard

Dated 2 December, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Thank you for the wonderful box I got yesterday. I read Rick Collins' biography on the G2TT web site. I would like to hear about his Vietnam experience sometime. I tried to contact all the Texas sports teams, Cowboys, Texans, UT, Texas A&M to see if they could send us something. Haven't heard from them as of yet. I am trying to get calendars, posters, whatever I can get to decorate with. Plus we all know the best cheerleaders come from Texas! I hope we can be friends even after I go back to the States next year.

Have a great day,

SSG Gary Harders, Jr.
710th Ord. Co. (EOD)
U.S. Army

My name is Shawn Hayden and I received a package from you guys the other day. This is the first one I have received since I have been here, and it brought a smile to me and the other soldiers I work with to go through it and find all the things inside. I would like to thank you and all the volunteers for sending this package to me. I really appreciate the fact that people back at home still keep us troops in their prayers and thoughts. Stay safe and I will talk to you later.

SGT Shawn C. Hayden
CFLCC-G2
U.S. Army

Dated 30 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First of all, Happy Holidays! Secondly, THANK YOU SO MUCH for your support. We have received your gifts, boxes and care packages and I, from the bottom of my heart and the hearts of my Marines and Sailors thank you so much. Your undying and constant devotion to us is definitely a great reminder that people care about us, regardless if we know you or not. You make us realize that there is a bigger picture to this conflict, which is UNITY.

These enduring and hard times away from home, loved ones and all that we were used to make us put a lot into perspective; things we never think about when we are home. Being deployed makes you realize how many great people there are in the world and how many are willing to go beyond that extra mile and beyond their personal lives in order to ensure the Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers know that they are cared for ... every single one of them.

I know we can never repay you, for what you have done for us goes beyond words or material items, but please know that we are forever thankful. In all honesty, you all are truly the main reason why we can focus on the mission at hand and why we do this with a smile on our faces.

You are the reason why the sweetest feeling in the entire world is knowing the day will come when we can go back to the great country we call home and to the great people who are willing to sacrifice a piece of them at home to endsure we know you all care about us and that you have our backs.

Our country is well protected, Please sleep better at night because our morale here is now high and we are focused ... focused because of all you guys have done for us. The smiles you bring us will never fade and your willingness to help make our Christmas a great one for me, my Marines and my Sailors will forever be in our hearts.

I cannot wait for Christmas to come and to see their faces when they receive and open the gifts you sent us!!!

Thank you forever and ever.

SEMPER FI,

GySgt Jesus Deniz and the Marines and Sailors of
HMH-466 S-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all of your prayers and support. We really appreciate the care package you sent us. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Take care and God Bless.

Sincerely,

Sgt Christopher N. Egge
CLB-2, DET-B, KV STP
U.S. Marines

Dated 29 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Where do I begin? I came back after a patrol yesterday and was met with a note that I had mail. The anticipation of mail from home brings smiles to many grown men and women, and it is quite a powerful stress reliever. The usual process for these types of notes is to immediately, and I mean immediately, track down the person who left it. Fortunately, she was very close. "Sir", she said, "you have two huge boxes, two heavy boxes." I followed her to get them, trying to think who they were from.

When I first saw the Give2TheTroops logo, I immediately smiled. These gifts were an unexpected and very welcome surprise. Thank you for everything. We put aside the stockings so we can hand them out on Christmas Eve. Everyone here says thank you.

I asked around here to see if there are any particular needs or wants. A lot of people (the younger troops) mentioned video games, so I am going to get a list of what they are talking about to see what we can do for them. We can't complain. It is not even close to home, in any aspect, but we know why we are here.

Speaking personally, two simple words cannot begin to describe the appreciation I have for the efforts your team. Please extend to your entire organization my sincere gratitude. The result of your tireless efforts is a piece of the home that everyone misses.

Also, I enjoy reading the cards as well. Please let Shannon, Stacey, Sandy, and my friends at Bank of America know that I thank them all. These are people that we have never met, but they are yet connected to us through their kindness and generosity. Lastly, I love reading the cards from the kids. They remind me of what my own girls and what they would do, and no amount of praise is enough for that.




In closing ... thank you all.

Bill

CPT William Arendt
B/403 CA Bn
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 26 November 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

On behalf of the soldiers of the 24th/348th MP Det (CID), please accept our sincere thanks for your kindness, prayers, and care packages this Holiday Season. The items were enjoyed by us all. It's nice to be remembered and appreciated. God Bless You, your Families and the North Carolina Branch Volunteers.


V/R,
CW4 Stephen W. Gaunt, Commander
24th/348th MP Det's
U.S. Army

Dated 23 November, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Just want to send you a e-mail and let you know we received your packages earlier this week and handed them out to the guys/girls in the squadron. They loved the packages and the support you are providing for them and for all service members deployed. I'm sorry we don't have any pictures the troops opening your packages but right now we can't use thumb drives or download pictures to the computers. I have included a few taken a couple of months ago.

Just a little back ground on our unit; we are the 75th Fighter Squadron /75 Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) stationed in Moody AFB, Georgia. We maintain the A-10C aircraft and belong to the 23 Wing out of Moody. The 75 AMU is one of the three original groups that started back in 1941 as the 1st American Volunteer Group named The Flying Tigers.

The group was started by Claire Lee Chennault who recruited pilots and crewman to go to China and help support and defend the Burma Road from Japanese attacks. They flew the Curtiss P-40 aircraft and had one of the best fighter records in military history. Their trademark shark teeth can been seen flying on our aircraft even today.

On a personal note, I would just like to say how much your support means to the people deployed throughout the world. It's so great to see people like yourselves taking time out of your busy days to help out. It's people such as yourselves that make this country worth fighting for and we are proud to defend this great nation.

On behalf of the 75 AMU and myself: THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!




MSgt Scott A. Blakeman, A-10 Weapons Flight Chief
455 EAMXS/WS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 27 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care packages and was blown away by the incredible generosity your organization has shown us. I'm with the 50th Brigade Combat Team of the New Jersey Army National Guard. I'm a Sergeant First Class - a Platoon Sergeant. I've been in almost 20 years and I've been here twice - the first time was with the 42nd Infantry Division. Your packages are by far the most generous display of Soldier support I have ever seen.

What I do when I receive boxes, is I bring them to our Company TOC and make sure all the Soldiers get to share in the good fortune. I have to let you know (because you probably won't see it on television) but things are a lot safer here, thank God, than they were when I was here the last time. We work side-by-side with the Iraqis and other countries' forces and they have come a long way.

I hope to hear from you again. I truly appreciate all the support great Americans like yourselves have shown us. It makes me so proud to be a part of the greatest fighting force in human history and to defend the greatest country God has given mankind.

Thank you so much!

Sincerely,

SFC Christin Auriemma, Force Protection NCOIC
HHC 50th STB
New Jersey Army National Guard

Dated 27 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wish to thank you for all your support this year. The items you sent us were great and I was able to share them with members of my entire unit! I'll be coming back to the U.S. around the time you receive this letter. I wanted you to know that I appreciate your thoughtfulness and efforts in making my time here worthwhile. I've enclosed one of the original letters written by "Andi" which was sent inside one of the care packages. This letter has officially been to xxxx (OPSEC), Iraq and back to you in 2008.

While many of you thanked me for my service to our country, I want to remind you that there are many others still serving who need your support.

Once again, THANK YOU!

Sincerely,

LTC Michael A. Dalesandro
B Co. DSTB, 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 23 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received another care package from you today with the PS3 Game System & games inside. Wow! What a surprise! Thank you! There were also some Santa hats and holiday decorations. The guys loved the Santa hats - we have been having all kinds of fun with them. We all thank you very much. We really love the game system. The Marines were so happy ... I had 15 buddies in my room playing it. I will have to mail you some pictures.

Thank you again and Semper Fi.

Love,

LCpl Dustin Turner
1/3 C Co. 1st PLT
U.S. Marine Corps

On behalf of the Soldiers of HAVOC Company, 50th Special Troops Battalion, I want to thank you for the support you have given to us while deployed to Iraq. Our unit is from the New Jersey Army National Guard, headquartered in Port Murray, New Jersey. We are located very close to New York City, and have participated in several operations in the areas surrounding New York City, following the events that took place on September 11, 2001. Our participation in those operations, as well as our operations here are extremely important to us, as many of our Soldiers were directly affected.

We recently received 2 very large boxes from your organization, and I am truly amazed at the generosity shown to my Soldiers. We're with a small Soldier support area in a camp in Iraq. Our Soldiers have limited accessibility to many of the items your organization sent to us. The news of your care packages was received quickly and made it through the camp. Our Soldiers literally "rushed" the Command Post to see what you sent.

The items you sent us made it to the hands of Soldiers in a matter of minutes! All the cards and letters enclosed in the boxes were taken by the Soldiers, and many intend on writing you or contacting your organization directly to share their appreciation.

I wish that there was more I could say to thank you for your time, efforts and donations. It is truly appreciated.

May God bless your organization, volunteers and donors in the days to come.

Sincerely,

CPT Sean J. Combs, Commander
HHC 50th Special Troops Battalion
New Jersey Army National Guard

Dated 22 November, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much for the package that you sent!  It was an awesome gesture that everyone enjoyed.  We have placed the cards that the kids made on the wall as a constant reminder that people still appreciate what he are doing out here.  It is always a great feeling to have mail sent out here and everyone just loved all the goodies in the box!  Enclosed, I am sending a few pictures of us and will keep you posted until we depart next year.





SSgt Peter D. Frankland
455 EMSG/CE
U.S. Air Force

Dated 22 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello.

It's me - SPC Thompson again! I hope all is well with everyone. I wanted to express my appreciation to everyone who participated in the "Halloween Morale Booster" project! It was a great success all around.

It was such a huge success that I didn't go to work that day. I stayed at the living quarters and passed out the treat bags to Soldiers who work at the hospital, post office, the Battalion that is all over us, and to Soldiers who work at the DFAC (Dining Facility). And I continued to make bags for most of the day.

Meanwhile my coworkers SGT Dozier (Shift Leader) and SPC Wilson (my roommate) went to the FARP and gave out bags to the pilots. (They must have known I was giving out candy because a lot more than usual came to get fuel!)

SGT Dozier had to come back to the living area to get more treat bags. Anyway, we had enough, so it worked out well. They told me that some of the pilots had on costumes or at least their helmets were painted. I wish I could have been there ... I bet it was funny. But I was taking care of the Soldiers and I had a lot of fun on my own.

The challenge actually came that night, when we hand delivered 144 Treat Bags to everyone in our company. It was awesome! SGT Dozier knocked on the door ... and then SPC Wilson sprayed them with silly string and I snapped the picture. Of course, we paid for that dearly, because for the rest of the night, people toilet-papered our doors! We must have laughed for a while. I've attached some photos for you, so you can laugh as well! (the date is wrong on the photos).

After we got through clowning around, I went to a Gospel Explosion! And it truly was just that! I gave all my fellow choir members Treat Bags as well. The Lord was with us that night ... his spirit was truly there. We sang and praised the Lord. Sometimes we forget just how much God loves us and how much he blesses us. But I am telling you, the next morning, I was just filled with joy. What more could I ask for?

I had a great time with all my friends (with your help). I was able to do something really nice for the Soldiers and build up their morale, and then, when I went to the Gospel Explosion, I was filled with spirit!

I'm thinking of doing something for Christmas, but would like you to be involved again and am open to suggestions. Please let me know.

P.S. SPECIAL THANKS TO PATRICIA A. MOE, M.L. & CRAIG OLSON, CINDY HIBBS, JANET CAGLE, SHARON CLOWDUS, CYNTHIA ARTIS






Thanks again,

SGT Hope Thompson
894 TH QM Company
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 22 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE CARE PACKAGE!!!! We received it and it was great. The Marines are enjoying all that you sent us. We even put up the Christmas tree and the decorations. There was a blow up Christmas tree and we have put that one up and it is lit all day and night. You should have seen our faces when we opened up the box!!! We are definitely so grateful for everything that you have done for us.

In all honesty, I do not know how to ever repay your organization for what you do for us, I can only say thank you from the bottom of my heart and our hearts. The Marines definitely enjoyed opening the box and setting everything up.

Thank you for all that you guys are doing for us over here.

Take care and God bless.

GySgt Jesus Z. Deniz, Squadron Gunnery Sergeant/Logistics Chief
HMH-466 S-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your latest care package the other day with the PS3 Game System & games inside.  You sure do know how to make a lot of people smile and jealous at the same time.  I said that everything was everyone's to enjoy.  Some of the young women really wanted the teddy bears.  They said it made them feel like little girls waiting on Santa all over again.  Everyone has enjoyed the goodies and other things that you sent.  The letters and cards from the kids really mean a lot. 

I can only tell you "thank-you" at this time.  But, the holidays are yet again upon us.  A lot of the senior enlisted want to make donations to your organization and I told them who to talk to and how to do so.  Even the officers are impressed ... now, that is truly hard to do in my Battalion!

Thank You Again,

SGT Israel Castilleja
HHB 2-146 FA 1st PLT
Washington Army National Guard

Dated 22 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings from the big sand box. I received 2 care packages from your group yesterday. Thank you so very much. We passed the items around the Platoon and you made all very happy.  DOD has banned all removable media devices from government computer systems, as the result of a large cyber attack, a such we are unable to upload photos at this time. Trust me, you brightened a lot of Marines' days.

Thanks again,

Ed

CWO-4 Edward M. Williams, Engineer Ordnance Maintenance Platoon Commander
1st Maint. Bn, Maint. Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU!

Wow. Where do I start? You people are amazing. You guys are so selfless, and giving, and thoughtful. We got the care packages yesterday. You wouldn't believe how many troops crowded around the boxes to see what had arrived.

When the boxes were opened, the room lit up with smiles. Everyone started saying "Can I have one of those?", or "Cool, it's like Christmas here.", or "Who sent these?" It was amazing. Everyone started taking the Christmas decorations and hanging them up, or putting them out.

I had to have everyone STOP for a minute or two. I read the letter you guys sent aloud. People were amazed to hear how many people were involved in helping put the packages together. We are all so thankful for you guys. We are proud to be fighting for such great people! I will try to get the pictures we took sent to you. I took them on a digital camera, and the connection here is next to none, so hopefully they will send!

Thank You again, and God Bless.
 
A1C Megan Rosado and The Troops
386 ESFS/PHOENIX
U.S. Air Force

Dated 19 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

As soldiers, each day in our lives we experience so many different things and situations that bring both happiness and sadness to our lives. When we received the wonderful care package you sent (that volunteers took the time to send to us), it was just an awesome moment. That box was so big and heavy I said, "Now this is how a Marine sends a care package" - knowing that your Founder's husband is a U.S. Marine.

We read each card that was sent to us and send a Thank You to all.

My favorite season is winter and missing the ski season doesn't happen very often if I can avoid it. My family and I have visited many places in Connecticut, and actually have family in Groton, CT.

All of the gifts in our care package were needed and will certainly be used. We have both female and male soldiers serving with our unit and a few invisible soldiers who protect us and watch our backs. Yes, we believe in Angels in our business - that's for sure.

Thank You for keeping our soldiers in your prayers and thoughts. Please keep up all the hard work and continue to know we are very glad you take the time and effort to help us and think of us.

THANK YOU, GIVE2THE TROOPS AND ALL YOUR STAFF, VOLUNTEERS, AND DONORS!

SSG Ryan Edwards
A Co. 112th FA
U.S. Army

Dated 16 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We want to thank you and your organization very much for such a wonderful package. It was one of the best that we have ever received. The items you included in the package were wonderful and very useful. I want say I'm sorry for taking so long to reply, but I'm kind busy and going in a million direction at the same time.

I am on a military transition team that's training the Iraqi Army to be on their own and help them to learn how to support themselves. There are xxx(OPSEC) of us on the team and we are among the Iraqi Soldiers. That means we are far away from civilization.

Thank you all at your organization on behalf of us please.

SSG Ronald Jean-Louis, LTAT Advisor
31A, MiTT 35B LTAT
U.S. Army

Dated 15 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your packages!!! I wanted to take the time to tell you all how much I appreciate all you have done to support the Soldiers of 1-68 Armor Battalion/3rd Brigade Combat Team/4th Infantry Division! The Soldiers have absolutely loved all the things sent to them. I've done my best to get your items out to all my Soldiers, especially those living in more isolated areas.

The packages you have sent were wonderful. You are a blessing and I can't tell you what you mean to me as a Chaplain and to the Soldiers. God bless you and please continue to support the Soldiers who replace us.

With much thanks and gratitude!

CH (CPT) Leonard Siems
HHC, 1-68 AR, 3BCT, 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 15 November, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am currently proudly serving in theater in Afghanistan with the United States Navy.

I appreciate the care packages your organization recently sent to us. We are going to be here for a while.

Thank you,

MA2 Michael A. Reddington
Task Group Trident
U.S. Navy

Dated 9 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My unit is getting ready to leave here in a few weeks and I wanted to personally thank you all at Give2TheTroops for once again supporting us with care packages during our 15-month long deployment.   Your packages lifted the spirits and morale of our Soldiers. The generosity of thoughtful people like you, played a very vital role in our survival here in Iraq. Just getting something from home adds a personal touch to the daily lives of Soldiers who defend our freedoms.

I will be turning over the reins as point of contact to our replacements from the 10th Mountain Division out of Fort Drum, New York. I know you will take care of these troops with the same degree of commitment your organization gave to us. Thank you.

Take care, and God Bless you and G2TT in all you do.

SSG DJ Saunders
HHC 1-1 ARB, T/F GUNFIGHTERS
U.S. Army

Dated 8 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I have received three packages in rapid succession and cannot be more thankful for you all and your organization. Everyone in my platoon has been picking through the boxes for food and hygiene items, and they all wanted to let you know how grateful they are for your contributions to the unit. Dare I say, you guys are the bomb! The little cards we get from people around the country are the cutest things ever and give us all a good laugh.

Everything in the packages are spot on and get used every day, especially those crossword puzzle books (I've picked up a new hobby).

Once again, we all thank you and hope everything back home is going well!!

LCpl Michael Weber
2/25 F Co., 2nd PLT
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all the time and effort you put in to make us feel appreciated!  We spent a lot of time on the road advising the Iraqi Army as they take over security, so we really appreciated the snacks-to-go!  

We have now been ordered to prepare for returning to the good old USA!   Thanks for all the support you showed us during our deployment.   I thank you for all you do and know that you are reassuring troops that they are not forgotten.  

1stLt Dave Keltner
MTT Team 0723
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 7 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the huge box of snacks, sweets and other goodies.  It was like Christmas today when we got it. 

Our unit will be returning to the States soon, but we wanted to say thank you again.  The generosity of your organization is amazing.

v/r,

MAJ James Randall Bugg
763rd Engineer Detachment (Facility)
U.S. Army

Dated 7 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello, I'm a member of the 15th Financial Management Company, C Detachment. We received a care package today with a lot of useful hygiene items as well as snacks and entertainment DVD's. I wanted to send my thanks to everyone involved in putting that box together, as it has already been put to good use. Thank you for your support and gestures in this time of need.

Have a happy and safe holiday season this year and pray for us to come home soon.  

Again, thank you so much for the time, effort, and support you've shown us. We greatly appreciate the kindness that you share.

PFC Adriana H. Sanchez
15th FMC, C Det.
U.S. Army

Dated 7 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks you so much for the care package… I’m writing you from Iraq and I'm a part of the C-Det 15th FMCO Company from Fort Hood, Texas. Thanks again for all the goodies and taking time out of your busy schedule to send things to my Soldiers and me. Have a great day and God bless you.

SGT Varita V. Quincy
15th FMC, C Det
U.S. Army

Dated 7 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the care package that you sent! We appreciate all of your support!

SPC Sarah Abastillas
15th Financial Management Company, Det
U.S. Army

Dated 3 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of all soldiers of HHB 2-146, I would like to extend my greatest thanks for the packages you have sent us.  I'm still going through them and dividing them up equally.  It really meant a lot to a lot of the young soldiers that are over here right now to have that kind of support.  And the upper echelons of my command wish to extend their gratitude.  

We can't thank you enough.  You made our day today!  We look forward to your continued support until we are all home.

Take Care & Keep up the good work,

SGT Israel Castilleja
HHB 2-146 FA 1st PLT
Washington Army National Guard

Dated 3 November, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your extremely generous package. Everything you sent us was so perfect.

I read about how your company got started in Andi's basement and we are all amazed how your once little business took off with support from generous people. I can’t thank you enough for all you’re doing. I know your packages are bringing so much joy to all members of the military and that is so huge for someone to do just out of the kindness of their heart.

Cpl Powers and I (both females) appreciate the girl items too. It’s really hard to get items like that out here that make us feel feminine. Everything was just so great. Your team of people really made our day today. Please know also that we share everything we get with all the other Marines and civilian contractors around us.

Thank you so much from everyone.

Sincerely,

LCpl Deana Martinez, S-4 Combat Driver
CLB2 H&S Co. S-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 November, 2008
Location Withheld (OPSEC)

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello again! I hope all is well! Thanks again for sending us more care packages! Everyone loved them. It really made if feel like it was Halloween here! I put little baskets of candy out everywhere and we used all of the decorations! It looked great in the flight kitchen, we received tons of compliments!

Here are some photos I took of us, our dining area with the decorations and festive items that were sent!

Thanks again! We love you, Give2TheTroops!





With Love,

Missy

TSgt Melissa A. Letizio
Unit Name Withheld (OPSEC)
Air National Guard

Dated 1 November, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

You are amazing!!! I cannot thank you enough for all you continue to do for us.  The troops thank you and so do the Afghan kids.  We will distribute your items to the Afghan people on our next Volunteer Community Relations Program mission. I'm sending you a photo of me holding a young Afghan boy - a recipient of your donations.

Love,
Juan

LTC Juan Montoya, Advisor, ANA GS Inspector General
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 30 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

This is just a little thank you from everybody here at the Radio Shop in Iraq. We all partook from the care package you sent us and we all enjoyed it a lot, I must say. However, I will say that this one hit home a little more than most do. From all of the notes, letters, and postcards sent here from back "home" (North Carolina), it really hit home. Sometimes the stress and a lot of the other elements get the better half of us and we sometimes forget what we have back home and these letters and such give us a nice little reminder of what we do have back home and serve as a good reminder of what and who we are fighting for.

You could say it helps us keep focused.  We just want to send a thank you to all of those who helped out with the care package you sent, to include:
THE HOLMES FAMILY BELMONT, NEW YORK / NORM JONES EVANS CITY, PENNSYLVANIA /  ELIZABETH CREWS DEMOREST, GEORGIA / SHONTA SMITH LADSON, SOUTH CAROLINA / JOE SCHAEDEL VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA / "DEB" BOCA RATON, FLORIDA / TERESA HARVEY BECKLEY, WEST VIRGINIA / ANN MARIE OTT WASHINGTON, MICHIGAN / DIANNA MORGAN WALDORF, MARYLAND / DAVID AND NAOMI HENARD CHURCH HILL, TENNESSEE / LINDA MEYER ROCHESTER, NEW YORK / SUZANNE ROLPH-MCFALLS HEBRON, KENTUCKY / CAMERON WATSON SMYRNA, GEORGIA / LISA RUESCHMAN CANTON, OHIO / CARLY AND KEANU KASABA LANSDOWNE, PENNSYLVANIA / AMANDA OLGEIRSON AURORA, COLORADO / SHERRY TAYLOR RICHMOND, INDIANA. / JACK & SUE PIETRAS TOLEDO, OHIO. 

We all thank you for your support!
         
We also know that it took a little more than just sending in a donation or something to that nature. So we would like to send a special thank you to all the children who sent out cards, to include:

NICK KOUTLOS (HALLOWEEN CARD) / BOBBIE JO (8 YR OLD "MADE A 92 IN MATH") / EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY (NO NAME) / 13-YR-OLD NO NAME / "ALLEN" / BRITTANY (ELU PIRATES) / "TEANNA" / "LESSIE" / "THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB NORTH CAROLINA". 

These are all of those who put a little personal touch into the care package for us over here.

Last, but not least, THANK YOU GIVE2THETROOPS, FOR GETTING ALL OF THE TINIEST LITTLE DETAILS TOGETHER SO THAT WE CAN ALL ENJOY THIS PACKAGE YOU HAVE SENT TO US.

May God bless you in every way possible, and ensure only the best in your future. It is only the people like yourselves who this world needs more of. Thank you once again for everything.



Christopher L. Puckett
Husband and a very proud parent
CURRENTLY, SOMEWHERE IN IRAQ
U.S. Army

Dated 29 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to take a few minutes to thank you for all your support and efforts to keep us happy. Thank you for the morale-boosting care packages ... it's all greatly appreciated.

The XBOX 360 game system you sent us is making its way around our unit. I try to get it to different people and to different shops so as many people in our unit can enjoy it as possible!

Thank you again for everything!

Cassie

Sgt Cassandra Jorgensen
MWCS 38, Unit 41137
U.S. Marines

Dated 28 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thanks for the care package. I’m the NCOIC of Chapel Operations here at XXXXX Air Base here in Iraq. I'll make sure these gifts get distributed ASAP. It was wise to put everything in its own bag because one of the shampoo bottles burst, however the rest of the box was protected and will go a long way to help the troops here.

Thanks again.

VR,
TSgt Joseph McCurdy
NCOIC Chapel Operations
U.S. Air Force

Dated October, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),



SSG Alejandro Reyna
C Co. 1/4 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 24 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

It was very nice of Give2TheTroops to reply to my sign-up and to help my Soldiers. Your help to all branches of the service is a huge blessing. You all deserve a big SMILE.

Thank you again for your support,

SSG Ryan Edwards
A Co. 112th FA
U.S. Army

Dated 23 October 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Tomorrow the fun begins, our replacements start rolling in and we are officially less the 2 months from going home.  Things are getting very busy around here which is a good thing…..makes time go a little faster.  Jen and the kids are ready for me to come home.  Jen told me I would make a nice x-mas present this year.

Thanks for agreeing to take good care of my replacement when I leave.  I am sure you will take good care of him and his section and I know I’ve done my part in taking care of a fellow Warrant Officer.

As always you guys are the best at what you do.  We have been very blessed to have Give2theTroops supporting us.  I wish you could see how many Soldiers you have made smile and you have helped tremendously with morale.

As always you guys rock,

WO1 Darren Ekberg and the CAB ROC team.
HHC, Combat Aviation Brigade
U.S. Army

Dated 23 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First of all, I would like to thank you for taking the time to write and send us the care packages. They were well received by the team.  As I read your letter it made me feel proud of the desire and dedication you have to support American Soldiers during deployments. Please share this letter with others; let them know that Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are proud of what they are doing and how they are helping the Iraqi people.

I’m the Team Chief of a “Logistics Training Advisory Team” LTAT; we’re in a remote area called XXXXX (OPSEC) near the XXXXX(OPSEC)border. Our location is actually on an Iraqi Forward Operating Base (FOB) so we don’t have any of the conveniences like other Coalition areas. Currently we’re training and advising the 3rd Iraqi Army Division (IA), it’s a rewarding yet sometimes frustrating job.

I just recently went on a humanitarian mission to pass out school supplies and toys to five Iraqi villages. We visited the schools and it pained me to see how these children are living. It made me realize as an American society how very blessed we are even with all our problems. I took pictures and have attached a few.

I’m in the Army and I love the military; I guess you have to considering the length of time I’ve been in - 23 years. When I’m not deployed, I’m stationed in Bamberg, Germany, it’s in the Bavarian region of Germany and is a great town. The majority of my career I’ve been stationed overseas. My family has made many sacrifices for me to fulfill my dreams. I’ve missed many special occasions like the birth of my children because of the profession I’ve chosen.

I’m a Warrant Officer; it’s a great job to have. My specialty skill set is in the allied trades field, this consists of machining and welding. At the moment of course I’m not doing that because of the current mission I’m on. Before I became a Warrant Officer I was enlisted, a Sergeant First Class, I have also been a Drill Sergeant, nothing like Major Payne of course.

The weather here in Iraq is starting to cool off. When I initially arrived here it was 130 degrees in the shade (really) but now temps are only getting up to about 98°. The rainy season will start soon and probably last until early March. This is my fourth rotation and hopefully my last.

I will close now. Thank you so much for you letter, it’s always great to get mail from the home front. God bless you.

Sincerely,

CW3 Rodney L. Hughes Sr.
3IA Divison MiTT/16SB LTAT
U.S. Army

Dated 18 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to personally thank the volunteers and donors of Give2TheTroops for the care packages that you recently sent our unit in Iraq. We are overwhelmed by the level of generosity and thought that was put into the numerous items. Please pass on to everyone that these donations were extremely well received and utilized by our Soldiers.

To give you some background on our organization, we are members of the 1109th Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot (AVCRAD) from the Connecticut Army National Guard located in Groton, CT. We are deployed in support of Operation Iraq Freedom to provide aviation maintenance and logistical support to Army Aviation units.

As you can imagine, the environment here is harsh and the time away from our families is difficult. However, it brings great comfort to all of us to know that we are still being supported back home.

Thank you again for all that you do and please pass on our heartfelt gratitude to all the members of your organization.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!



CPT Ray Chicoski
1109th AVCRAD
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 17 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is SSgt Quinn Knight, I am an Air Force Engineer attached to the 10th Mountain Division, deployed currently to Forward Operating Base Delta.  As you know, I cannot get into specifics, however, suffice it to say, it's remote.  We received your care package, and were delighted in its contents.  We were able to spread it around to several LSA's, and all of the soldiers were extremely happy.  The items you sent were exactly what soldiers over here needed, and it was immediately clear you had first hand experience as to a Soldier's needs in this environment. 

Everything made it fine, and was packaged very well.  Not to mention, the top quality of the items you sent: the nice body wash and Pringles® potato chips, the manually charged flashlight & radio ... everything was a hit!

Thank You.... Thank You.... Thank You....  We are truly blessed. Every time we receive a letter, postcard, or package from home, we need nothing more to remind us why we all volunteered for such a life, in the Military.  We are proud, and honored to serve our Country, and Americans like you, who work so hard to support us in our difficult
endeavors.   

God Bless you all for what you do,

All my best,

SSgt Quinn Knight
810th Civil Engineer Flight/FED 4
U.S. Air Force

Dated 13 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm writing to express my appreciation for your time and service dedicated to easing the burden on forward deployed United States Service members. One of my fellow Marines received one of your care packages and I watched in amazement as the Marines sifted through the contents - sharing its entirety with anyone in the vicinity.
Yet more than the size of the box or the generosity of the items sent, I was amazed that people so far from this war could devote such time, energy, and resources so selflessly to aid men they have never (nor will ever) meet.

I believe wholeheartedly in this campaign in Iraq at a time when it seems most of our nation doesn't support or even opposes our struggles. Knowing there are still Americans like yourselves, who remain faithful when it's unpopular to do so, brings me more comfort than any amount of boxes or items ever could.

Thank you again for your sacrifice and dedication to freedom.

Semper Fidelis,

Cpl. Michael S. Currie
1/3 Charlie Co.
U.S. Marine Corps

SrA Kayla Grenier
332 EAMDS/CASF
U.S. Air Force Reserve

Dated 7 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Good Morning, I'd like to say thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. And thank you for the care packages you have sent to me. They definitely brighten my day. It is amazing how important mail is here. When we don't get mail in after a couple of days folks get down.

Thank You,

SSG Jean Vereen
528th Med Det CSC
U.S. Army

Dated 7 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the care packages I received today. You rock - thank you! I have been very busy lately. All of our attached units have been pulling out the last 2 months, so I've been training the new guys and getting them used to our Missions. It is a long process. The Girl Scout cookies you sent us were a big hit. Thin Mints are always a favorite of mine. The squad grabbed them from the box before we even emptied the care package. And thanks so much those little black hats - they are perfect under the Kevlar.

The cards from the kids were great to read! We always enjoy them. We're doing all right over here but it feels like we've been here forever. I can't wait to get home.

Thank you for everything all of you do for us. It makes us feel loved. You make it a little better for us and we feel closer to home for us by all the things you've sent us.

Again - thank you.



SPC Travis John Hoyle
64 BSB, 3rd BCT/ 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 6 October, 2008
Location Withheld (OPSEC)

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received my first G2TT package and I was so freaking excited!!!!  I love it! And everyone else is so excited!  There are so many great things in there! And I LOVE my Hello Kitty ornament! And my favorite H20 products! You are the best! You really put smiles on everyone's faces.  It was like Christmas! And the Halloween/fall decor is awesome! We are going to decorate as soon as we get some down time. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I've attached a few pictures for now!




TSgt Melissa A. Letizio
Unit Name Withheld (OPSEC)
Air National Guard

- I really loved the care packages. Got to go to a meeting  just wanted to say thanks!
Marque Mealing

- Thanks for your contribution to our troops. They loved it and the box was entirely empty by day’s end. Again, thanks for taking the time to put that together and send it our way.
Capt Anthony Fichera

- Thank you for the care package that you sent to us!  It meant a lot!  Thank you for all that you do!
TSgt Samantha J. Kolness

- Thank you for sending all the great stuff! It really cheered me up!! Thank you so much!
SrA Ashley Nieves

Dated 5 October, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you! The toys, stuffed animals and wool caps will go out to the kids on our next VCR mission and the snacks are for our camp recreation room where the Troops can enjoy them.  The clothes will be sorted and eventually distributed to needy families.

Thank you.

Love,
LTC Juan Montoya, Advisor, ANA GS Inspector General
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 3 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank you for your support and for the 2 boxes that I received from your organization.  I have distributed the contents with my Soldiers and we are all greatly appreciative of everything that you do for all Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines.  My best wishes to all of you that work and support this organization.

Thank You Very Much,
SFC Fernando E. Perez
HHC, 1-22 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 3 October, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),





SSgt Lance Heinzelman
JLC / AFN Bldg 415
U.S. Air Force

Dated 1 October, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to say "thanks" for the care package that you guys sent to us. All the Soldiers were thrilled to receive the goodies you sent. We appreciate all that y'all do for us. Once again, THANKS SO MUCH for making a difference in our lives.

SSG Roland Sanders
D Company, 40th Expeditionary Signal BN
U.S. Army

Dated 30 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your package 3 days ago and everyone in my platoon was thankful for what you sent. I appreciate it more than you know. We are doing pretty well off, we have working showers and rest rooms, so no wet wipes needed. DVD's would be nice.

Some guys are getting bored around here, we got some cable things called FSN installed in our hooches, so everyone's waiting to see when the PX is going to get tv's and such. I put all the bathroom supplies you sent - they helped out a lot as did the food you sent. Now we can eat what you sent when we are out on patrols instead of having to eat MRE's. I put all those thank you cards and letters up on my wall in my room ... those cards were really cool, for sure.

Thank you,

Cpl Dustin Turner
1/3 C co. 1st Plt
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is LCpl Blackwell-Vines, of the United States Marine Corps and I would like to thank you for the package that I received from your organization for my team. That was by far the best care package that the entire team has received. Not because of the movies or the other contents, but mainly because of the letters and the obvious gratitude that you showed. You may not believe it, but this is a great sense of motivation to service members to keep up the good work and stay focused on the mission at hand. I personally would like to express my sincerest appreciation for you and your organization.

I also, understand that you often times send more than one package. I appreciate it, but no thanks, because we will going home in the near future and I'm sure there are other units here who could use your gifts more than we could.

Also, I have attached a photo of my team. Sorry there aren't any recent pictures, but this is one of the only ones that has everyone in it. It is us when we first arrived in country.



Again, I would like to say thank you very much and GOD bless you all....

R/S
LCpl. Christopher A Blackwell-Vines
MTT 0721 Security
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 September, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I personally wanted to thank you for the package that I received from Give2theTroops.  All of the items that were sent have all been put to use or someone has at least gotten something useful.  The online gift cards for the flowers were a huge hit. Everyone wanted one but I explained that everyone could use the promo code on the back and all that could be seen were smiles. 

Please pass along my thanks and the thank you's from the rest of the men and women in our flight.  Every little bit that your organization donates make a huge difference in the moral for us here. 

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart!

V/R

TSgt Brandon  D. Bean
Vehicle Management & Analysis
386 ELRS/LGRVM
U.S. Air Force

Dated 22 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello, again! And thank you for the amazing packages. One of my Sergeants specifically wanted me to tell you thank you for her and to let you know that what you do for us helps out a great deal. She says that she tries to keep her spirits up, but the packages you send help because they let us know that we have people at home who support us.

You have brightened many, many faces, and we are all very, very thankful for that. Your organization is doing a lot of good.

I have spoken to my Commander and, in the near future, we will be sending some company photos your way.

Thank you, again.

Very Respectfully,
PFC Samantha Brewer
E Co 2-4 GSAB Orderly Room
U.S. Army

Dated 21 September, 2008
Persian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

It was a real surprise to receive all of the boxes and packages of special treats from the Give2TheTroops Organization.  I know the crew was more cheerful as the day went on and more items were distributed and opened.  

We enjoyed reading your notes and postcards, and the snacks and personal items really brightened up the day.  I received a couple books and Girl Scout cookies. 

I want to thank you for all the great work you are doing.  It really means a lot to those of us deployed away from family and friends. Receiving packages in the mail is a highlight of the day, especially when it is a surprise. 

Thanks to all of those at the North Carolina Branch from USS MOMSEN (DDG 92).  

Cheers and very respectfully,

LCDR A. Scott Carpenter (XO) Executive Officer
USS MOMSEN (DDG 92)
U.S. Navy

Dated 20 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

A lifetime is too short and our warmest words are too few to thank those whose thoughtfulness brightens our days and touches our hearts. Thank you so much for all that you do for our troops!

The 100th Engineer Company
U.S. Army

Dated 19 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! My name is SPC Amanda Kazmierkoski. I have received 2 packages from your company. I want to say THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! My soldiers and I really appreciated and enjoyed everything in your packages. We also want to say thank you to everyone who has helped, and/or contributed in any way shape or form! Thank you guys for everything you have done.

Take care, and Thanks again,

SPC Kaz from TF 115 Med

SPC Amanda Kazmierkoski
TF 115 Med
U.S. Army

Dated 10 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

This is SGT Pringle from Iraq. I want to personally take a minute to express our gratitude. Thank you so much for all you have sent and the time you have taken from your everyday lives to remember us. The Soldiers enjoy themselves whenever they get these morale packages. I call them that because your care packages boost morale like a kid on Christmas.

To them it is like an early Christmas and it brings a small piece of home to them. Some people who you forget have smiles, let a smile slip out when they get something that reminds them of home and they are in a good mood the rest of the day because of it.

Thank you for your kindness and warm hearts.

On Behalf of B Company "Bulldogs" I want to say THANK YOU!

God Bless you and yours,
SGT Nicolette Martinez Pringle
B CO 94th BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 7 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

On behalf of the greatest Cavalry Squadron in the entire U.S. Army, I would like to thank you and the donors who sent items to my Soldiers. Thank you for being such great Americans and patriots.

LT Ryan R. Cooley, III/V Platoon Leader
E TROOP 1/6 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 7 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I would like to thank you for all you do for the troops who are deployed.  Many of our team are new deployers and greatly appreciate the support of their country.  As for the rest of us who have deployed every year for the past few years appreciate everything that has been sent to us.  Even though you may not be in the desert yourselves, you are still helping the cause and giving a little joy to those away from their families and loved ones. 

Thank you,

SSgt Shelly Pullen
U.S. Air Force

Dated 3 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Colorado Branch),

Blessings upon all of you and your families.  My name is SSG Randy Adams. I am a 30-year-old male from Cabot, Arkansas.  I am in the Arkansas Army National Guard and this makes my third trip to the desert.  I am married to the most beautiful woman on earth named Christina.  I have three children one son and two daughters, to include a 8-month-old that I have only seen 18 days out of her life.  I know that may sound sad to you, but those days were filled with smiles and laughter. 

Here in Iraq I am an assistant mayor for our living areas.  Basically I am a person for our battalion that has connections with every office on this large post, and if the battalion of xxxx Soldiers needs certain things, I retrieve the items for them.  It is a very easy job, but a very long day full of talking to several different offices everyday job.  I am told that I should be home for Christmas this year… and that is very exciting!

I want you to know that both boxes arrived on September 4, 2008 and were distributed to soldiers around the battalion immediately.  It is always exciting to receive support from different Americans from all over the country.  I would personally like to express my fondness for the cards from the children.  In Arkansas I run a children’s ministry for my church.  The ministry is called AWANA, you may have heard of it, but if not you can always research it and find out how awesome of a program it is.

Thank you for your support, and as always continue to pray for our country, and hug a child today, children are the closest thing to heaven on earth.

Til I hear from you again

SSG Randy Adams, Assistant Mayor for LSA Anzio
2-153rd INF
Arkansas Army National Guard

Dated 3 September, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you for all the thoughtful packages you sent that I know were prepared in love and support for our deployed soldiers. The packages, letters and pictures we received from you over our duration down range were very encouraging and motivating to keep us going day to day. I am requesting that you stop sending packages out for me since I am no longer deployed down range. You are truly blessed givers and thanks is given to all of you volunteers.

Sincerely
CW2 Monique M. Layne
QM, 173D ABCT PBO
U.S. Army Reserves

"SPEAK SOFTLY AND CARRY A BIG STICK" - Teddy Roosevelt

Dated 3 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My Name is SPC Stanley Solyian. I’m here for my 2nd tour in Iraq. I’m currently here in xxxx Airbase. With the 133rd QM COMPANY from Bronx, NY.   I just received a big box from you last week with all sorts of goodies. My troops were very happy with the amount of support from your organization.

We took some of the stuff and sent it to our other soldiers to other FOBs. I especially enjoyed the Beverly Hillbillies DVD's and the music of Uncle Cracker. But for the most part we try to stay motivated by playing softball and other recreational sports. I myself spend time playing my PlayStations2. I’ve been trying to get a few games but I’ve had a hard time getting them such as TNA Wrestling, Smackdown vs Raw 2008, & Outlaw Tennis. I’m also trying to get my hand on some Three Stooges movies and shows.

My other troops are into PS3. I just wanted to tell Andi and the rest of the volunteers what you are doing for our troops is such a blessing for all of us soldiers out here. We are so uplifted by the amount of support we get from you all.

I’m looking forward to the next package from you.  In my next letter I will send a picture of me.

Love always,
SPC Stanley Solyian
133rd QM CO
New York Army National Guard

Dated 1 September, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I am writing on behalf of my unit to thank all the volunteers at the NC Branch. We just received a box from them and it was all greatly appreciated. What great items - everything in there was needed and appreciated. I am enclosing a copy of our unit photo to show you all who we are.



Thanks for supporting us, and may God continue to Bless each and every one of you.

SFC Antonio R. Baird
151st Trans. Det.
U.S. Army

Dated 1 September, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for sending me the care package. It made me smile and my soldiers enjoyed the things, too, because we always share when we get stuff. 

Feel free to ask me anything you like.  I am not married and am stationed (when not deployed) at Fort Knox, KY. I'm a Chaplain Assistant in the military. 

If you would like to send me something else, I like like mixed nuts, drink mixes, snacks and nuts dipped in milk chocolate.  And you can send me anything else you'd like.
 
Thank you for your support,

SSG Daniel Letters
3d ESC/HHC
U.S. Army

Dated 30 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the two large boxes that you sent us. Wow! As soon as I got the items out on the shelf they were gone. We really appreciate all that you have done for us and others. I pray God's richest blessings upon you.

Be blessed and thank you so much.

SGT Hope M. Daniels, Chaplain Assistant
B CO., 1 AD
U.S. Army

Dated 27 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I want to say thank for your support to our MWR center over here, and all the troops really appreciate it greatly. I'm sorry to inform you that I will be departing the soon and request that the excellent service you provide be cancelled at this time. But once again Thank Very Much For Your Support!!!

SSG Tray Kallie, MWR NCOIC
HHC 548TH CSSB
U.S. Army

Dated 25 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of our team, I want to personally thank you for your support to the Troops. Taking time out of your personal lives to stand with us while we are away from family and friends gives us a lot of encouragement and helps us persist in this time of war.

Your gifts are a blessing to our team and me. As a team, we recognize that our greatest support comes not from our equipment or weapons. On the contrary, it is people like you who provide love and unconditional support from home. Once again, thank you for all your support. We appreciate it!

God bless you all and your organization.

Sincerely,

MAJ Oscar H. Pintado
CPT Andrew Taylor
CPT Mike Thompson
CPT Peter Caretto
1LT Daniel Bourke
2LT Justin Ellis
2LT Lance Neumaster
SFC Robert Pigott
SSG Michael Garvin
SSG Wayne Jamieson
SSG Jason McKinney
SGT Jeremy Brewer
PFC Michael Castoro

MAJ Oscar H. Pintado, Team Chief
MiTT 0412, 1st BN, 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) - "Team Reaper"
U.S. Army

Dated 22 August, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for taking the time to put that care package together for us. We appreciated everything in it that you sent. I also wanted to tell all the kids who wrote cards and letters, "thank you". Those are the best! Everything over here is going well and we soon will be home. I am so excited to be going back home. It means a lot to us to know that people back home care about us.

Thank you again. God bless you.

Sincerely,

SGT  Natasha Dawson
HHC 37TH IBCT
Ohio Army National Guard

Dated 22 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We wanted to send a BIG THANK YOU for your generous gifts to our team. Most of our members are single sailors who do not get much mail from home. Your gifts brought many smiles to our faces. Thank you for your kindness.

Sincerely,

CTR2 Krystal Tyler
JESTR Team
U.S. Navy

Dated 22 August, 2008
Kyrgyzstan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I just want to say thank you again for the care packages. Don’t worry about sending out any more packages to us, we are getting ready to head back to the States soon and all the mail is getting forwarded now. All the Marines here wanted to say thank you for the care packages you sent us. Yesterday was 117° and it’s not cooling off. As a matter of fact it’s getting hotter now that we're getting ready to leave.

Now I get to look forward to doing all the training again and coming back out here again next year…… So I hope we can stay on your care package list for next year, you send the best stuff… OOhhh especially the cookies! Well I have to get going and I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart that I appreciated every thing you have done for the Marines and myself…..

SSgt Sean M. Sheridan
1st Radio Bn
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is John Higginbotham and I am a retired Marine Gunny working here in Iraq with a Marine Osprey squadron as civilian support.  The Sgt Major passed out several pillows donated by your organization and I was fortunate enough to get one.  What a terrific difference in sleep. I thank you so much for your effort and time in helping myself and these young Marines. 

You all are what is best about America. 

Again thank you so much.

Sincerely,
John D. Higginbotham
GySgt USMC (ret)
VMM-162 Mod Team
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We received your package yesterday. Thank you very much. The items in the package are much appreciated and greatly needed. The cards and pictures from the children are very nice. The guys were very surprised to know that there are wonderful people out there who really do care.

Thank you again.

Very Respectfully,
PFC Samantha J. Brewer
E Co 2-4 GSAB, Orderly Room
U.S. Army

Dated 20 August, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hi my name is Ryan and my buddy and I just received care packages from you and we wanted to write a little note. Thank you so much for the package. Everything in them is going to be used at some point by myself, Mike, or our other fellow soldiers. We received beanie baby toys in one of our packages and it was perfect because we gave them to a Soldier who recently just had his second baby so he can send them home to his young children.

It put a big smile on my face so thank you for that. Everything is a big help and getting mail from you guys is a huge morale booster. It's almost like getting Christmas presents when your boxes arrive. Please thank everyone who helped give items or pack those packages if you could. It means very much to myself and everyone who enjoys what you send.

From the bottom of my heart thank you.

SPC Ryan Stryker and PFC Mike Bolden
HHC 4th BSTB
U.S. Army

Dated 20 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am writing this to let you know that the package you sent to us in Iraq arrived. We here are truly grateful for items you sent to us. We live on a very small base, and the only way we get hygiene products, snacks, reading material, etc. is through the mail. If you would like to know more about us feel free to write anytime, and I will answer your questions as best as I can. I am sorry it took so long to write this, because I lost your letter that was in the package.

Take care and thanks for your support.

SFC James O'Brien
MiTT 1-44-11
U.S. Army

Dated 15 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

FROM MTT 0723 MARINES & SAILORS:

Thank you for taking time out of your lives to show us your support
- 1stLt David Keltner

Thank you!
- Lt Matthews

Thank you for the support!
- 1stLt Kim

Thank you for your support
- SSgt J. Lozada

Thanks
- SSgt Bazano "The Bazz"

Thank you for your support and prayers
- Sgt Jason Lambkin

Thank you - "Little Foot" RAWR!
- LCpl Lonsdale

Thank you - OOH RAH!
- Kyle Barrix

Thank you
- HM1 Schultz

Dated 13 August, 2008
Kosovo

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would just like to thank you for the thoughtful package that you recently sent to my Soldiers here in Kosovo. We really appreciate the goodies. I have several Soldiers in my section and we share all our care packages. We really thank you for supporting us while we are here. Your package today really brightened my Soldiers’ day! We have not received anything lately and they were beginning to feel lonely. But, thanks to your abundance of goodies, they were smiling ear to ear.

Thank you so much for caring. Some really don’t know how it feels to receive something just because. You are truly beautiful people to take so much care to send us a little of home.

God bless you!

Thank you,
SFC Robbin N. Crosby
TF Blackhorse
U.S. Army

Dated 13 August, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I apologize for the long delay in correspondence, I have been swamped with recent operations.  We received your other 4 packages about three weeks ago and I got them out to the COP about a week ago.  The First Sergeant there is now cursing your name because the "Joes" are using the XBOX game system more than the pillows.  It has been a tremendous boost to morale and a welcome distraction from the day to day.

I had some great photos of me passing the stuff out and then proceeded to smash my camera while jumping on a truck.  One of the guys is going to bring more pictures when he comes back in.  I can’t thank you enough for all that your organization has done.  You wouldn’t believe the look on those guys' faces when we opened the boxes.  

From all of us, thank you.

OC

CPT Kevin P. O'Connell, MI
S2, 4-320th FA (TF Glory), 4th BCT, 101st ABN
U.S. Army

Dated 11 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your thoughtful packages. My Marines and I really appreciate the effort that you guys put it for us. Unfortunately, we don’t get to be around email, phones or a post office that much (since we are an active tank unit) so it is hard to be able to thank you like would like to be able to. I now have that chance and I just want you to know how much it means to us that patriotic Americans like you guys still support the troops. It means the world to us.

Thanks again for the great support and please keep it up. You are making a HUGE difference over here.

Semper Fidelis.

GySgt Matthew E. Dordal, 2nd Platoon Sergeant / Company Master Gunner
Animal Company 1st Tank Battalion I MEF (FMF)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 August, 2008
Kosovo

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Today I received a care package from the North Carolina branch of Give2TheTroops and I wanted to say thank you.  The package was filled with great items that will be shared among my company of Soldiers here in Kosovo.  A special thank you to the Ashley family who packed our box!  Thank you all for supporting the troops!  

Thanks Again,  

CPT Eric D. Snedeker
AV D Co TF Blackhorse KFOR10
Illinois Army National Guard

Dated 10 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

The huge workload here has kept me very, very busy, but I have finally caught a break and I wanted to take this available moment to thank you so much for everything you have organized, funded, thought of and sent here. It’s nothing short of amazing. So many Soldiers have benefited and appreciated everything you have sent.

I wanted to do more than say thanks ... I intend to start sending some updates on what's going on here and plan to include you if you're interested and it's not a bother to you. I hope you are all having a GREAT day.

Thank you SOOO much!

LTC Theodore J. (Ted) Daley
B/407th CA
U.S. Army

Dated 7 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the wonderful care package that you donated. I received the package today and the items were distributed among my squad. We were all delighted to receive these gifts from you. Your kindness and support will always be remembered (because I'll always remember the people who made Christmas morning in August during my first deployment).

Take care and may peace be with you always,
PFC Andy Huynh
812 MP CO
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 7 August, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care packages. We really appreciate the support.

SSgt Diane Schmitt
PRT Mehtar Lam
U.S. Air Force

Dated 7 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am writing in response and to thank you for the first box. We received it two weeks ago and are very grateful. We appreciate all that you have done and will continue to do for us while we are over here.

Thank you,
1LT Frank Talbert
722 EOD CO
U.S. Army

Dated 2 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received a package from G2TT and I apologize for taking this long to thank you for your generosity. I was overwhelmed by the size of the box. I am in awe of the organization Andi has grown. Rest assured what you are doing is heard loud and clear here by the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who receive your packages.

Things are going well here and my unit and Soldiers are beginning to focus on getting back to our families, friends, and jobs. I'd ask that you pass additional packages on to service members that are just arriving in theater.

Again, thanks for what you are doing.

Sincerely,
LTC Dave Johnson, FOB Commander
HQs 1-161 FA
Army National Guard

Dated 2 August, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Thank you for what your organization does and for having this web site!



SGT Stacey Wells
TF Duke 201st BSB B Co Supply
U.S. Army

Dated 1 August, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for sending us such incredibly generous care packages. I have to say the amount of support we received from your organization is overwhelming. I must say that the boxes I received from your organization were the most impressive and well thought-out I've seen in my three tours to Iraq (plus another tour to the Balkans). They were absolutely spot on with the type of gifts they contained. Even my normally reserved Soldiers remarked that these packages must have been put together by someone who had been to Iraq!

So your care packages managed to find the company commander - me - for HHC/1-35 Armor. We are normally based in Germany. Over the past few years it seems like we've been deployed or getting ready to deploy more than we've been home, but that's okay. This is where the job is at the moment.

Please give my personal best wishes to Andi's husband on his current deployment in Iraq and please ask her to accept my personal thanks for standing by him during his service to the nation. We are hands down the greatest military in the world but it is almost exclusively due to the strength of our families and friends who support us. It takes very special people to cope with long hours during the week, weeks/months away from home while training and sometimes years away from home on deployments. Clearly, Andi is one of those people.

Thank you all again in Give2TheTroops for being there for us. We really do appreciate it.

CPT Michael E. Persin, AR, Commanding
HHC TR-125
U.S. Army

Dated 31 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Nothing like X-mas in 130 degree heat. Like the times before, you have once again went beyond expectations and made a lot of troops happy. We all can't thank you enough for the efforts and the love you have shown us. It's truly is like Christmas to us every time we receive boxes from you. Our crew all got plenty of things we needed and wanted. Like always I set lots of stuff out in our work tent to let our fellow workers in the other cells get some goodies for themselves.

SPC McKnight, our female Soldier, was blown away by all the items she received.  Lots of the things you guys got her could not be bought over here so she was very happy with the support she got. 

Sorry I didn't get this thank you out sooner but this has been a very busy week. Attached is a picture of the crew saying in so many words "THANK YOU ALL" for your support and attention to detail. It's because of people like you all that makes US proud of what we do for our country.

Please thank everyone who was involved in supporting us.

Dated 30 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch)

Thank you for the boxes that you sent to my husband and me. Those items was well needed. I had to divide up everything and send his items. He is up north and we are not able to see each other. I won't be coming home early. I wish there was a way that we could leave early. My husband will get home earlier this year. I was full of joy when I opened your boxes. It is so hard to get to the post office so that I can send thank-you cards.

I hope that your summer is going well. I am making the best of my tour over here. It gets so hard at times. I know that I will make it, I just need to be strong. Looking at the cards and pictures make it a little easier on me. I want you to know how grateful I am and how much I really appreciate all that the Give2TheTroops organization does for us soldiers. We are always in need of personal hygiene products and beef jerky. We are always sweating and are in a snacking mood.

My unit is on the night shift now because of the heat. It was near 120 degrees the other day. I was told that it get's hotter in August. I am not looking forward to that at all. I hung up all the cards and pictures on my wall, so don't think I don't. These items is what keeps me motivated. I don't get a chance to hear much from my biological family. They have never sent a card and I never seem to get in contact with them. I just stay in contact with my husband family and just pray for God to fix the situation. I hope God is blessing you and your family. If you can, please let the ladies know that I appreciate them putting these boxes together for us.

Thank you,
PFC Janice J. Matthews
57TH TC 43338, 168 BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 30 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch)

I just wanted to say "THANK YOU SO MUCH" for the box I just received. It was full of all the essentials my fellow soldiers and I can use over here in Afghanistan.

I was wondering if you in the next package you send me is there any extra DVD's or video game system games laying around there that you could send me to distribute to the troops. Or how about some sunflower seeds, Andes thin mint candies and some gum. Just some ideas for you.

THANK YOU AGAIN SO MUCH for the support you have been giving my unit and me while we are deployed.

I look forward to hearing from you again soon.

Take care and God Bless,

SPC Ricci Frisk
3D EOD BN
U.S. Army

Dated 30 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina and Connecticut Branches)

I just received your box today with all the goodies in them.  IT WAS AWESOME!!!  Thank you so much for the care package your organization sent us here at 455 Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight.  As soon as I started opening them up everyone was all around getting into each one to see what they could get.  Our flight has 5 Aeromedical Evacuation Crews and 2 Critical Care Transportation Teams and 8 person command cell that serve all of Afghanistan.  We like to think we do not lose when it comes to our patients and we work long days/hours to make sure every man/woman we fly to higher level of care is given the best of care; to make sure they ALL get home to their family and friends.  Anything we have left over will be going with the teams to give to patients if they need anything.

We appreciate all the hard work you do and enjoyed all the letters and cards (the hand written ones from the children were great!!!)  Let me tell you the one box with girl stuff was a HIT!!!  There is not a girly stuff around here.  I attached our Flight Picture and Our Command Section photos for you to have. 



Thank you again for all your hard work.

V/r

TSgt Alexandria H. (Ali) Young, Duty Controller/IMO
455 EOG/EAEF
U.S. Air Force

Dated 26 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch)

I would like to thank you on behalf of all the troops in my unit that have enjoyed the gifts that have been sent to us from you and the organization in which you represent. The morale was boosted ever so high when the word had passed that there are those who still support our efforts in the war on terrorism, and are willing to do whatever they can to support us in any way they can.

We greatly appreciate that there are people out there who would try to "move mountains" to help us feel like we have a little piece of home out here. Please extend our grace to all of our extended family in Give2TheTroops, INC.

Thank you.

LCpl Jennifer N. Pasquale
TFT PT-2
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

I just wanted to say thank you for the great care packages! The care and time you all put into helping relieve the little stresses is symbolic of the more important support we feel as we see that we are in your thoughts. Our time here has gone well so far as we advise the new Iraqi Army. It has been rewarding to see the country slowly get back on its feet. Yesterday, we saw our first train up and operating here in Iraq.

Thank you,
1LT David Keltner, MTT 0723 Maneuver Officer
C 1-327 in Regt, 1 BCT
U.S. Army

Dated 25 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut and North Carolina Branches)

Thank you so much for the care packages, we received one today! All kinds of good food, toiletries, stuff to read, etc. My coworkers & I really appreciate all you do for us! The personalized cards that were sent really mean a lot to us, reminds us why we are out here!

Thanks again & have a great day!

V/R,

SSgt Karey B. Garrison, Accounting Liaison Technician
407 AEG/EFM
U.S. Air Force

Dated 24 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

I just watched a Shipmate of mine open a box you shipped him! I just wanted you to know how much he appreciated all the stuff you sent. The greatest thing was watching him open it up and then share it amount his fellow shipmates in his work center. I was even included and I'm not even part of his squadron!

You have made the day of many Sailors out here on the USS Abraham Lincoln!

Thanks,

AME1(AW) Jamie L. Rivers
VAQ-131  UNIT 25405
U.S. Navy

Dated 21 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch)

First I would like to start off by saying thank you for the care packages. My platoon and myself really enjoyed the contents of the boxes. Some of the soldiers have expressed maybe next time they could have some energy type drinks such as Rip It, Red Bull, Amp'd along those lines also they enjoy this tea called Gold Peak sweet ice tea. I told them there is no harm in asking. If you can't, we understand because it's not wise to ship liquids in care packages.

Once again thanks for all you do as well as the other people working in this organization.

SPC Sherrell Clark
553 CSSB, 297TH TRANS CO
U.S. Army

Dated 21 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

My name is SFC Seymore and I am writing your organization to say thanks for the care package that I received. I am on a MiTT Team and we are constantly on the move with the Iraqis. I shared the box you sent with my entire team. Thank you guys so much for what you do. Attached are 2 photos. I am the guy with the hat on.

God Bless,

SFC Donald Seymore
37/9 MITT (0940)
U.S. Army

Dated 21 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I am an Air Force Lieutenant serving in Iraq. We received a wonderful package today which, among many items, included new Hallmark Cards with Sound from Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. I wanted to express my thanks to Hallmark for donating the cards. They are such an ideal gift that I, in turn, can pass along to my family to express my love to them while I am away. Your thoughts and gifts do not go unnoticed and are not taken for granted!

Thank you so much!
1Lt Heidi Carlson
U.S. Air Force

Dated 21 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Thank you for your support. We appreciate everything. The care packages and spirit in form of cards. It's always good to hear positive things from the home front, and a nice surprise to get any kind of mail, especially needed items.

Thank you so very much from all of us!!
Arnold Crabtree
HHC 201st/927th EN CO
U.S. Army

Dated 20 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just got the package you sent the other day, thanks. I appreciate all the cookies (not like my expanding waist needs any help). The guys here raided the box as soon as I cut it open. I'm not sure I even saw everything that was in there I went so quickly. The screen covers were exactly what I was looking for. The spray sanitizer was a big hit with the Force Protection troops (they spend their day out watching contractors making sure they don't do anything stupid - or catching the one that does).

My boss grabbed the socks - the laundry here has turned all our white socks an ugly grey/green shade. Unfortunately the box had been rough handled and was pretty beat up when it got here - got to love military mail handlers huh! Not all the mirrors made it - seven years bad luck for someone. But it seems like those who wanted a mirror were able to get one.

As you already know I play bagpipes. I was able to get permission from the Army Band here to play during the fallen comrade ceremonies (where they take the caskets out to the aircraft on the flight line). I've only made it through Amazing Grace twice before I had to quit playing. Hopefully I never have to play for anything like that again. Well enough depressing stuff. Since then it has been quiet here and I pray it stays that way.




Thanks again for the gift box and all your support.

Much Love and appreciation
TSgt Iain Morrison
455 EMSG/ECES
U.S. Air Force

Dated 19 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello. My name is SGT Tommy Toney and I'm in Iraq.. I just received your package from Give2TheTroops and I am very thankful for it. The box was received today in perfect shape. All the Soldiers said thanks and God Bless.

Thanks again
SGT Tommy Toney
SVC -27 FA
U.S. Army

Dated 19 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care package yesterday. To say that everyone in the unit had a ball going through it would be a gross understatement. It was awesome. Everyone felt special and appreciated. The snacks, letters from the children, hand knitted blankets, etc... It was all incredible. While we appreciated everything, I must say that the Texas Hold'em set (pro-style chips and table "mat") were the stars of the ball.

They came less than a week from our Fourth of July "party." One of the events that we have been planning on holding is a Texas Hold'em tournament. Let's just say that the chips that were in the box made the few chips we were planning on using look like bottle caps. Just know that we will keep your organization in our thoughts and prayers during this Independence Day. I do not want to end this e-mail without letting

I want you to know that I greatly admire the military spouse. I can see only glimpses of what my wife has to deal with while I'm gone and I well up with pride to know that I have the honor to be married to such a warrior. I know that she is not an exception but the norm for the American military spouse. I would like you to know that while the deployed service member gets most of the recognition, the majority of us (the ones with that little thing called common sense) realize the sacrifices you homefront warriors make and we salute you for it.

Once again, I wish to thank you for the box your organization sent. You are making an impact military-wide that you may never fully be able to appreciate. Just know that it is greatly appreciated. I am writing you to ask for a favor. I am able to help out at the base hospital a few days a month. The base hospital serves as a hub for wounded warriors transitioning to other medical installations world-wide. Many are only here for a few days while a few may need to spend weeks in the hospital. I was wondering if you wouldn't have any items that you could send for them. One of the officers of the unit in charge of the hospital stated that small travel size toiletries are always welcome. So are bed sheets, blankets and such. Those items tend to follow the wounded warrior when he/she leaves the base.

I was also told that t-shirts and shorts are occasionally needed due to the warrior having his/her clothes cut off to facilitate emergency surgery upon arrival. I know that letters of support are always a hit, and in many cases an emotional life-saver. I'll understand if you are unable to put a box like that together on such short notice. While we really enjoyed the box you sent for us, if you were planning on sending another box to us in the next few months, please send the next box for the men and women that are wounded in the hospital. It might just be the light they need in the darkest time of their life. Once again, I do not want to impose. Please do not feel obligated.

Thank you again,
MA2 Philip C. Bradley
US NAVY CUSTOMS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 18 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Wow, I received the care package today with the DVD player enclosed and a few DVD’s. Would there be a possibility of receiving more movies? We’re going through them like water. We all thank you for your support once again.

Love,
Jim

MGySgt James M. Maloney
Muti-National Force West
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 18 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to let you know that we have received your care package and I personally wanted to take the time to say THANK YOU!!!  I think it’s amazing what your organization has grown to become with all the donors and volunteers willing to send us these items. It is great for morale and makes us all feel A LOT better every time we see how much people care!!  I have attached some pictures to this e-mail of myself and some of the other guys in my Unit who are benefiting from the items you sent!

Thanks again.
LCpl Ronak S. Parikh
RCT-5 3/4 S-1
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 18 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for the package we received from your organization today. I'm one of the NCOIC's of an Air Force Force Protection Flight here in Afghanistan.  Though not as bad as some bases in the area, we're all still isolated from family and friends and I watched a bunch of my younger troops get smiles on their faces today when they opened up the two boxes we received from you.

There were all kinds of snacks, cards from little kids, and toiletries and not one item was wasted, the packages were opened about 20 minutes ago and have already been grabbed up by everyone. I just wanted to let you know that we appreciate your taking the time to put this together for us. I know not everyone has time to write a note of thanks but everyone, Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines love getting packages like this.

Thank you again, your efforts are very much appreciated, please pass on our best wishes to everyone.

TSgt Adam R. Rearick, Force Protection NCOIC
455 CES
U.S. Air Force

Dated 14 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Hello my name is SSG Nathan Kelley and I wanted to tell you how much my platoon and I have enjoy the gift that you have sent us. On behalf of the 1-506th Medical Platoon thank you very much and God bless you for all that you do.

V/r,
SSG Nathan Kelley
Medics, HHC 1-506th IN
U.S. Army

Dated 7 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your package today with the microwave and pillows.  I am heading out to the COP soon and will take it with me.  I will send pictures of ya’lls support in action.  Thank you from all the Joes.

OC

CPT Kevin P. O'Connell, MI
S2, 4-320th FA (TF Glory)
U.S. Army

Dated 7 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care package yesterday - you are amazing! Thank you for sending us the Playstation 3 system and games. We have been very busy at work though, so its been tough to get a time to play it ... it figures!

Everyone is amazed by your generosity and ability to support us like you do.

Below is a photo of our company First Sergeant, 1st Sgt Matthews, standing over our company Gunnery Sergeant McGarr, while he plays with our new PS3, given to us by Give2TheTroops.



Thank you again,

Tim

LCpl. Timothy T. Totten
CLB-6 Sec. Co Ops
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 July, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you!  Thank you!!  Thank you!!!  Thank you!!!!  Wow that was too much you sent, but I passed them out and there was enough for ten of the troops. You are angels! I feel bad you gave such a long list of requested items. I feel that I need to repay you somehow. Anyway, thank you. 
 
EN2 John Doutt 
NAVELSG, Delta Company
U.S. Navy                                        

Dated 6 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the package and the kind words - it really means a lot. There are about XXX guys in my platoon, and we always share the goodies from the packages that we receive; so I need to tell you thanks on behalf of them as well.   A little about my unit: I am a medic attached to an infantry company based in Baumholder, Germany. We have been in Iraq for a little over xxx months now. Our current home is a very small outpost (about the size of 4 football fields) which is located on the in Iraq. The area we currently patrol is a rural/suburban low-economy area with lots of farmland and a surprisingly high amount of forest and vegetation due to the close proximity to the river.

The local Iraqi people have been remarkably cooperative and even friendly for the past 2 months. Some of our neighboring units have been having some problems, but we have yet to see any hostile action towards us; for which I am daily thankful. It is nice being a medic and not having to do your job.

I've included some pictures that I have taken over the past couple of months, feel free to show them to others.







Take care and thanks again!

SPC Michael Skinner
C Co 2/6 INF, 2BCT 1AD
U.S. Army

Dated 4 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hey! I received your care package 10 minutes right before we had to head out to live in another place so I couldn't take it with me. I grabbed all that I could pack from the box, but it wasn't much. Our mail gets held for some reason a long time. But when we opened the box, we had a fun time looking through it.

We all put on the sunglasses and they made fun of me for a couple of things in there. Unfortunately, I broke my camera so I couldn't take any pictures of us with the box.

I thank Give2TheTroops a lot for sending all that stuff for my unit and me. I left that box up for about 25 other people who didn't have to move out of the camp, so I'm sure they appreciate it also. But as far as needing anything... we don't really need much. I mean we don't have much, so we don't ask for much and have gotten used to living in a cruddy situation. We're out in the desert with minimal supplies.



Thank you again,

LCpl Don Voradeth
2D AA BN, B Co.
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks a bunch for the care package that you sent us. I apologize for not writing back sooner. I just got back from leave. My Soldiers appreciate what you are doing. The items in the box were passed out to each Soldier. You're all doing great things for us here in Iraq.

Thanks
1LT Michael Ellichman
HHC 1-8 INF BN
U.S. Army

Dated 1 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you very much for the care package. I am with the K-9 unit and you sent a Furminator® Brush and Buddy Bowl to us. Those things are great. I know they are pretty expensive so I just wanted to say thank you. This was the best box I got and everyone here got stuff out of it. Even my dog Bronco loved it. I can't say it enough - Thank You for all that You do!






SGT Daniel Fulton and Bronco!
K-9 Section
U.S. Army

Dated 1 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received a care package from you today. Thank you very much. There are many items that will be put to very good use. Thank you for doing what you're doing, your efforts are very much appreciated.

Sincerely,
SFC Bernard A. Stansbury
EN 763rd Engineer Detachment (Facility)
U.S. Army

Dated 1 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package your organization sent to our unit. We are the 763rd Engineer Detachment and are currently deployed to Iraq in support of OIF. The care package that we received from you was outstanding! All of the items were things that could be used by the members of the detachment. We are a xxx- man (OPSEC) detachment, so the box will last us quite a long time! Thank you again so much. It is always nice to know that people that we don't even know think of us while we are far away from home. The messages, letters and cards mean a lot to the guys.

Sincerely,
MAJ J. Randall Bugg
EN 763rd Engineer Detachment (Facility)
U.S. Army

Dated 7 July, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like you to know that we really appreciate the Care Packages that you sent. We received all the snacks, body wash, dental supplies, socks, candy, etc. and everything was definitely appreciated. The exercise stuff was sent to us in other care packages but your package was truly special. Everything is so expensive these days and we received all that is needed, but thanks for asking if we needed anything else in the future.

God Bless you and the North Carolina Branch of Give2TheTroops, Inc. Thank you to all the volunteers that mentioned in your letter for keeping us in your prayers. Thank you also for shaping our world and our history by giving when you don't even have to. Please note that I opened up the box with a grateful heart.

On behalf of the Contracting Team I would like to say thank you so very much for your generous contributions to all of us.

SFC Yanick Bard
Regional Contracting Center
U.S. Army

Dated 30 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received your care packages! Thank you! Thanks a lot for all the support & the great gifts you all sent us. A special thanks for the XBOX 360 system, games, DVD movies, etc. My platoon is very grateful. All of the contents were equally distributed amongst the platoon. I hope everyone is okay. May God bless you and your families.

Take care & once again thanks!!
LCpl Luis Perez
CLR 15 TRANS CO (3rd PLT)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated July 2009
Afghanistan

For Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Dated 30 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We here deployed to Afghanistan just received a box from Give2TheTroops. Thank you! Here are some photos of the Soldiers and me the day we received the care package. All everyone can say is, "THANKS!"

It's a great morale booster to receive a touch of home when we are away.



Thanks, God Bless, and Keep Up The Good Job!

SGT Ivan A. Cortes
Task Force Lifeliners, 101 Sustainment BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 29 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the Box. I received it last week and it was a big splash with the Command. We really appreciate everything that you have done for us. You definitely make being over here a lot easier. You are all such thoughtful individuals.

Loves and Hugs,
Jay

MSG Jerry J. Richards
HHC CAB 101st
U.S. Army

Dated 27 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the used books, DVD's and toiletries.  They were swooped up almost as fast as I could give them away!  You are the best. 

THANK YOU!

CH (CPT) Lenny Siems
HHC 1-68 AR, 3 BCT, 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 23 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just got back from R&R and what do I have waiting for me? 3 boxes from you! My squad was counting the days until I returned so they could open them with me. They told me the boxes got there after 2 days after I left. I knew it was from your team. "Rock" (the dog) loves the dog treats and we love everything in the box. Oh - and I love the sweeeeeeeeetttttttttttttt pen you got special for me - that was very nice of you!

Thank you again,



SPC Travis John Hoyle
64 BSB, 3rd BCT/ 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 23 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

This past weekend we received another care package from you.  Thank you so much for your continued support.  The snacks and hygiene items will be divided amongst the troops in our office while the stuffed animals and candy will go the Afghan kids. 



You are a Godsend not only to the troops, but also to the Afghan children.  Thank you and may God bless all of your wonderful donors and volunteers!

Respectfully,
Juan

LTC Juan Montoya, ANA GS Inspector General
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 22 June, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU for the care package. I was surprised how a simple thing like a pillow could raise a soldier's morale. I have one soldier in my platoon who has been very down lately. When I brought the box down to the barracks he was instantly happy when he saw the pillow. I just wanted you to know how much your boxes mean to everyone here. I've seen a dramatic change in the spirit of that one soldier. We very much appreciate you for sending the boxes. Some of the guys have requested movies on DVD.

THANK YOU AGAIN,

SSG Arthur Marcussen
D CO, 1-148th INF
Ohio Army National Guard

Dated 20 June, 2008
Kuwait - now home

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for all you and your organization do to help the troops who are deployed. My unit IBU 22 is now back home safe and sound and reunited with our families. Your organization is a class act! This next year when you are getting ready to stuff those holiday stockings again, please let me know when and where and I am sure I can probably get a few volunteers to assist.  

Thanks,
CPO Brad Groene
Inshore Boat Unit 22
U.S. Navy

Dated 19 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your wonderful box.  I will be handing out all the goodies very soon!  Thank you so much for the PS3 system!  That was the biggest surprise!  I will use it to help relieve the stress for my soldiers.  I plan to really use it and with the conditions here in Iraq and multiple soldiers using it, it will be well used.  I then, with your permission, plan to use it with soldiers wherever I am, since it has DVD capabilities. I plan to also use it for events like movie night or other things like that. 

Thank you,
CH (CPT) Lenny R. Siems
HHC 1-68 AR, 3 BCT, 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 18 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is 1stLt Taylor and I am currently in xxxxx, (OPSEC) Iraq. I received a package from you a couple of days ago. I just want to say thanks. What you guys are doing truly brings up the morale. I appreciate it.

Thank you for your support.

Semper Fi,
1stLt Michael Taylor
2/11 DET 2
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your 2nd package today - thank you very much. And thank you to everyone who donates all that stuff. It came at the perfect time ... we just had a detachment leave us and get put out on a base that doesn't have much to offer them, so we will be able to send some of what you sent to help support them out there while they are doing their "outside the wire" time.  Once again thank you very much for everything you do we are all very grateful. It is all very appreciated.

Cpl Evan Kutz
1st Sup Bn H&S Co/S-3
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My unit received a few packages from you guys a couple of days ago. We just want to say THANK YOU very much, those packages are like gifts fallen from the sky - thrown by Angels!

The Marines here really feel your support from back home.

Take care and hope to hear from you soon.

Semper Fi!

Cpl Maximo Rangel
1stT MLG H&S CO CCU
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 13 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to drop you a quick note that the guys in the field Camp xxxx (OPSEC) are getting your packages now. We have received your boxes of goodies and they have been dispersed throughout the unit. We received some very nice cards and notes that the Chaplain has spread around the Camp. I just wanted to let you know that your efforts to bring a lot of smiles to us out here are much appreciated.

Thanks again for your support and concern for our welfare.

Semper Fi,

Colonel Patrick McCarthy and MGySgt Arthur Zachary, Senior Enlisted Advisor
MNC-I C-4
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Dated 12 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I just wanted to take the time to let you guys know that we really appreciate your support. I did receive all the packages that y'all sent. I am sorry I am late with my thank-you note.

We still have a while left on our deployment.

Take care and I hope all is well.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND Y'ALLS FAMILIES.

Thank you,
SGT Kwame Peterkin
295TH QM. CO.
U.S. Army

Dated 12 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for supporting us. The Marines of 1st Radio Battalion and I really appreciate the things that you have sent us. It keeps our morale up and gives us a good feeling knowing that you really care about us. I know this isn't much but this is the least I could do to express my gratitude and to say thank you for supporting us. I hope all of you have been receiving our thank-you cards and letters we've sent over the past couple of months.

Thank You.

Sincerely,

SSgt Sean M. Sheridan, Maintenance Management Chief (MMC)
1st Radio Bn (CSSOC) ENG/MT/UT Maintenance SNCOIC
U.S. Marines

Dated 11 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thanks for the care package! I will enjoy it to the fullest. I have a guy who is from North Carolina in my platoon. I am glad that we have organizations like yours to give back to the troops in times like these. I am sorry it took so long to write back. I have been pretty busy. I only have a few months left until I am back at home with my wife, children and grandchildren. I miss them so much but was able to see them on mid-tour leave which helped.  I had such a good time it was hard to come back to my job here, but I have to do my job with my troops because it is our duty to provide and protect freedom for everyone. I look forward to hearing from you again.

SGT Sebastian Pennywell
I Troop 3/3 ACR
U.S. Army

Dated 11 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

A big thanks from Navy Customs Iraq!! I wanted to drop you a line and tell you how much myself and the rest of the team really appreciated your care packages!

The hygiene package was immediately gone through as we have had heavy heat and sand storms for the past many days. And of course the food spoils, so we're consuming it all quickly.

Thanks for keeping us in your hearts and minds while we are away! Attached is a taste of our great weather. I do miss the green Northwest.



Respectfully,
MA2 Ryan West
Delta Company
U.S. Navy

Dated 9 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I wanted to thank you and everyone who worked on these past two packages we have received from you guys at Give2TheTroops. We all are overwhelmed with how much you care about us. I think a lot of military personnel weren't expecting all the attention we get from civilians. I guess as civilians ourselves we never realized how much some care about the troops and as civilians many of us were never spoiled and we feel as though we are being spoiled now.

We definitely appreciate all you guys do. You asked for suggestions on things to send, well hygiene wise the females could always use some good hair spray and intense hold sports gel, and also clear hair ties. For the males they would appreciate AXE bodywash. Also it would be nice to have the propel water packets of powder and entertainment like CD'S, BOOKS, and DVD's. Any DVD's would do, but some that we would like would be Bruce Lee movies and vh1 DVD's. Some CD's that would be nice including "So wrong, It's right" by All.

Thank you so much again,

LCpl Trisha Nichols
CLB-6 (AMMO DET)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am the happy recipient of a pillow that you sent to Iraq .  It is definitely quite an improvement over the one I was issued – very comfortable to sleep on.

I appreciate you keeping the troops in mind, and giving something of yourselves to help us out.

Semper Fi!

Capt Jason Jewell
VMM-162 Operations
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for the pillow!  This is my third trip here and some things never change; sleep is always fleeting (so the pillow really helps). The support you send is always eye watering.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Capt Josh "Juggler" Smith
VMM-162 “Golden Eagles”
MAG-16 Tactics/ MV-22B SME
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for sending us a huge box filled with all kinds of goodies. The 7-10 CAV is not near a PX so all the stuff you sent us was very much appreciated. We are able to focus on our mission because of volunteers like yourselves. Thanks for keeping the American spirit alive!

May God bless you all with health and happiness. See you in 2009!

CPT Rosanna Brown
HHT 7-1- CAV PA
U.S. Army

SSgt Ben Lund
2/11 Civil Affairs, DET 2, Team 2
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

From the Marines - MCE Kuwait 

Dated 5 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First and foremost, I want to sincerely thank your organization for the care packages and the letters that you have sent. Your support has been outstanding; my team can not thank you enough for your efforts supporting us while we are serving our country in Iraq.

Your acts of selfless service will be remembered by my team forever. We are currently serving on a BTT Team (Border Transition Team) working on the xxxxxxx(OPSEC) Port of Entry. This is, by the way, the exit strategy for U.S. troops out of Iraq as it stands right now. What this means in short without getting into specific details that cannot be discussed is that our Border Transition Team has the opportunity of working in direct contact with the Iraqi citizens every day.

Our mission is to train, teach, and mentor the Iraqis so they are self-sufficient in the future. In addition, The security situation here continues to improve every day and the civilians are beginning to trust in the government of Iraq a little each day. The Port of Entry that I am working with is really receptive to what advice we give them and they take it and run with it. The best thing about this assignment is that we work with Iraqis everyday. In the future, I will send you photos so you can send the environment at our Port of Entry.

Thank you for all your support that you have provided the Troops on the Frontlines.

CPT Harry Dingle
BTT 4352
U.S. Army

Dated 4 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received your care package - thank you very much. It's like Christmas for us when we receive a package. So it means a lot when someone takes the time to send us a box. We are with the 1st BN, 6th Marines - part of the 24th MEU currently in Afghanistan. Please let all the people who helped with this package know we thank them for all support.

From the Marines of 1st BN, 6th Marines Motor T Platoon: "THANK YOU!"

Sgt Miguel Padilla
HQ SVC Co. Motor T PLT
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 4 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut and North Carolina Branches),

I'd like to thank you for all of the care packages, cards and personal letters you sent us. I pass them out to my Soldiers and the Soldiers who come unto my combat stress control clinic. And believe me, everything goes pretty fast. A lot of Soldiers come into my clinic to see what goodies we may have. They say we have the best goodies.

Just to give you a little personal information on me - I'm a military brat and am from the Philippines originally, but being a military brat, I did a lot of traveling. My dad served 24 years in the Air Force. During that time we did a lot of traveling. I live right across the street from my dad at Fort Bragg, NC. My Dad is my mentor and hero. All of my 4 brothers have served in the military, but I'm the first in my family to be deployed. I'm stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina when not deployed. I am a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, working towards being a PA. I am also a single parent and have two children who are being well cared for by their grandparents. I've been in the military for 11 years and I hope to make this my life's work.

I just want to thank you for supporting our troops. I hope all is well there. I'd like to say a special thank you for the dartboard. My staff loves it, and it is now their favorite pastime.

I want to again say thank you for supporting our troops.

SSG Jean Vereen
528th Med Det CSC
U.S. Army

Dated 4 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to send a short note to let you know that we received your initial (WOW WOW WOW!) care package. 1SG and I were just trying to put together prizes and a poker night once a week for our Soldiers. With your care package we are now able to do just that and now have some prizes to hand out to the winner. Last time our prizes were a little 20 Questions guess game, a tub of peanuts, and two decks of cards (we will continue this for third place).


The felt poker mat you sent was so cool and enables us to play on something other than a sand covered table. I'm not sure if you have another one, but we could use it if so. I also attached some pictures from the last few weeks. The sandstorms have been incredibly crazy as you can tell.

Also, please let the State of Connecticut thank you for helping with a building (VA hospital) that was incredibly cool to hear about.

It is so nice to know we have real support!




Again, thanks so much for taking care of us and for helping to improve our morale. I will send some photos back of our poker tourney. Nothing like the World Series of Poker, but fun to watch nonetheless.

Your Soldier,

CPT James J. (Jim) Geishaker, Company Commander
MNF-I 391st CSSB
U.S. Army

First, to your Founder, Andi: Thanks so much for what you started and for what you are still doing to support us! As a Marine I know the love that your husband has for you, his family and his country and how tough it is to be away.

When we receive packages from people who don't even know send us, it makes us realize how much the American people love us and what we stand for.  THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  This box was perfect! I had just run out of razor blades and needed some more and here they are! The women of the unit loved all the other female products. 

Well I need to keep this short, lots going on today.

Thanks again for what you do for us!

Sgt Kris Fleming
HMM 365 REIN
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My sincerest thank you's for the support that you and your volunteers at Give2TheTroops provided for the paratroopers of HHC/2 508 During their recent deployment and homecoming from Operation Enduring Freedom.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Brad McCoy, Commander
HHC/2-508 PIR, 82nd ABN
U.S. Army
2 FURY!

Dated 2 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),



Thanks for the care packages from the Marines of MCLC FWD Iraq.  

Americans like you all make our sacrifices worth it.   

Very Respectfully,

Sgt. Jeffery L. Crawford
NCOIC, MCLC, LogCom FIS
U.S. Marine Corps

"Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness"

Dated 2 June, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received two generous boxes today from Give2TheTroops. We truly appreciate all that your organization is doing. Please give my thanks to all involved.

God Bless the USA,

COL Dominic Caraccilo, Commander
3rd BCT, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), "Rakkasans"
U.S. Army

Dated 2 June, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to send you a quick note from the 455 Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight.  THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!  The boxes were PHENOMENAL!!!!  We were surprised to see all the different things you sent us.  The pillows are great for our patients. 

The Aircrews were so happy to see the pillows since they don't have anything to let the patients lay on.  We are also going to take a lot of the toiletries and make little bags for the patients we bring in to xxx (OPSEC) from all over Afghanistan and some straight to Germany.  They do not come here with anything and this will be a great start. 

If you could send another box like the one we received from you (except not so many cookies…  Oh my goodness..  What a sugar high... ) we'd greatly appreciate it. Here are a few pictures for you.

With me in the Picture is My Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Gainer and our Chief Nurse, Major Julie Faubion.  Also, I added a few pictures of me - the "Cool Mom" ... at least my young son thinks so.  You guys are great!!!!  We appreciate all the that you do for all of here overseas and the military families!!!

GOD Bless and Keep in Touch.

Love You,

Ali

TSgt. Alexandria H. Young
455 EAEF
U.S. Air Force

Dated 31 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello and God's blessings to all of you! We from the 528th Combat Stress Control Team thank you for your kindness. The care packages you sent were just what our Soldiers needed out here! We support our heroes in uniform and are very honored and privileged to do this work.

Thank you again, and may God continue to bless you and your work, and to bless us, and our beloved home country - USA!

Rebecca Ball
528th Med Det (CSC)
U.S. Army

Dated 29 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all your support you have given me and my teams. I am ready to come home after 18 months of war here.

Thank you from the ARMY.

SFC Eric Woldridge
BTT 4323, 3rd Region
U.S. Army

Dated 28 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

From all the Soldiers in my platoon including myself, thank you so much for the care package you sent. I've distributed the items with all my peers and we have enjoyed and used all the contents contained in the package.  Your inspiration and encouragements give us the ability to keep our morale high and stay positive. 

We are forever grateful for your loyalty and support to our cause and will continue to serve our great country. 

Again thank you so much for your support,

PFC Andrew Chia and Alpha 1-9 FA  Battery
2nd BCT 3rd ID
U.S. Army

Dated 26 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Dated 23 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! I just want to thank you all for everything you sent us. I received your care package & didn't know what to do as that package brought tears to my eyes. It's a blessing to know that you have people in the States thinking about us who to take time out of their busy lives to show us support. I appreciate all of you! My fellow Soldiers and I want to thank you all for everything. We understand that it takes time to get things ready, so please don't apologize for any delays because it's just a blessing that you do what you do.

We thank you all even if you just send a card ... we thank you all. God Bless & keep us all!!

PFC Jamira Williams
Med Trp, RSS, 3d ACR
U.S. Army

Hello and thank you for both care packages you all sent. It’s real nice knowing that there are still people back home who remember us. Everything in the boxes was great, from the snacks to the movies. Just awesome!

Attached are some pictures to show you how myself and the other Marines are very grateful. Not enough words can describe how grateful we all are.

Again thank you very much and God Bless.

R/S,

Cpl Maximo (Max) Rangel
1ST MLG H&S CO CCU
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

This is Sgt Cozart with 1st Supply Bn (-) Rein.  On behalf of my Marines and myself, I thank you for your care package and support.  I attached a picture of some of the Marines who are appreciative of your support.  Thank you again.

Respectfully Submitted,

Sgt Daniel L. Cozart
CLR-15 H&S Co, 1st Supply Bn S-4 (-) Rein
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I've attached a few photos for you.

The first is a photo of PTT 23 with the collage that was made by the awesome folks at Hartford Hospital.  Thank you all so much for taking the time to show your support for our team and the other guys and gals that are currently deployed.  We have the collage of photos in our living area.  Tell everyone at Hartford Hospital thanks so much, your support means a great deal to all of us.  

The second photo is of my Marines with the flag that was sent by Dr. Steller, Dr. O'Connell, Marlene, Joanne, Karen, Terri, Maria, Liz, Lynne, Angie and Libby of East Haven, Connecticut.  Please tell them all thanks so much for thinking of us and taking the time to send their support.  It means the world to these guys.   Towards the rear of the photo you can see the guys holding up 2 patriotic quilts and a pillow with the American Flag on it made by Carol Kana - please tell Carol thanks so much and that we loved the pillows.  Tell her I appreciate everything she has done for us and that she is an incredible person.

I waited to take these photos because lately our situation has been different than usual and it has been difficult to get all of the guys together.  It is great to receive these items in the care packages that are sent.  I love the quilts and pillows.  I kept a pillow and gave the others to some of the guys who really liked them.  The note that was with the quilts read "Hi Brian, these were made by Nina Primer."

The third photo is of me - taken by LCpl Seifert.

Thanks so much for all of your support and kindness,

Sgt Brian H. Grant
Police Transition Team 23
U.S. Marine Corps

" on the package. Thanks so much! Your organization rocks! I don't think I can say it enough. You have no idea how much your help and donations mean. After I got the word out to my fellow Airmen, almost all of the items were gone within I'd say maybe 10-15 minutes. Thank you all so much.

Here are pictures from some of our troops. You're the best!





SrA Chris Rutkowski, PMO Patrolman
407 PMO
U.S. Air Force

We received your huge box.  It is much appreciated by our team.  Thanks a bunch.  I am attaching a picture we took to show our appreciation to those you support us back in the States.  It was taken under the famous Saber crossings in Iraq.

v/r

CPT Juantonio Rivera, Intel Trainer
4/54/6 MITT
U.S. Army

Dated 16 May, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to thank you for your very customized package. I almost had to fight to keep the pillow, but fortunately, I outranked the rest :) Actually, I had to replace my pillow because it was the same one that you sent, but was flat and had seen one too many dust storms :), so it definitely made my day (and all of my successive nights :)

The one individual for whom I requested the macaroni & cheese was extremely pleased - he tried to take all of it, but then thought better of it and only took half :) The Goldfish Crackers didn't last too long, either. They did make it onto the shelf in our "snack shack," but were gone by the time I returned to it.

I've attached a few photographs for you to see what our set-up is here. The first one is of my primary volunteer to organize our "MWR" room and one of my SOGs (Sergeant of the Guard) assisting him. The second is another volunteer taking a break to enjoy a cigar while helping "spruce" up the outside of our MWR building. The last one shows how our soldiers, when returning from their shift on the towers, stop by the "snack shack" to see what new goodies have arrived.




Again, thank you for everything you do for us.

1LT George J. Fowler
1123rd Transportation Company
Arkansas Army National Guard

I just wanted to tell you I received one of your care packages.  Thank you very much. It means a lot to us all as we’re a very small camp.  I would get a photo together, but as soon as I got back from my convoy, I discovered that I have to go on another one…so you’ll get one later. The Brits attached to my unit were amazed that Americans would send them "Wine Gums" and "Spotted Dick" and they say "thank you"!

Thanks,

Nick

Cpl Nicholas Roberts
OSC Maritime
U.S. Marine Corps

.  Attached are a few pictures of the guys enjoying our makeshift driving range. Our mission here is to disarm and dispose of IED's and caches around the xxxxxx (OPSEC) area.  Our teams have been keeping busy over the last XXX months and your gifts help the guys unwind when they get back from their missions. 


Again, thank you for your support.  It is encouraging for the guys over here knowing we have folks like you supporting and praying for us.  You are great patriots and making a difference in the Soldiers', Sailors', Airmen's, and Marines' lives over here.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

CPT Daniel C. Werner, Flight Commander
447 EOD OL-A
U.S. Air Force

" equipment from your organization about a week ago. I just wanted to say on behalf of all the troops who have and who will make use of it in these hot summer months - THANK YOU!!!! Getting donations from home lets these men & women know that they are not forgotten.

The Baseball bag we received was a gift from "Andi Grant and family" ...  A U.S. Marine Sergeant told me that his wife had sent it out here and he knew we would make sure it gets lots of use on our base. His unit is at a small combat outpost with no area to play.

We’ve already checked out the equipment 4 times since he donated it!  We had oodles of softball equipment but no baseball stuff so it’s been a nice change for the troops not having to settle for softball.



Thanks Again,

Jennifer Vess, MWR Technician
KBR

Dated 8 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the care packages! They were great morale boosters! My battle buddies and I played the board games right away while hiding from our First Sergeant!

I'd like to thank everyone at Give2TheTroops for their time putting together fund-raisers and volunteering their free time to make all this happen. The support we receive from people back home in the States keeps us going. THANK YOU!

Sincerely,

SGT Yoon Jang
HHC, 443rd CA Bn.
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 8 May, 2008
Kosovo

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your 3 care packages. I know hand written letters are always nice but trust me you wouldn't be able to read my hand writing, so I typed this. It was really nice to come back to my room after a patrol and find packages there waiting for us. The items were all dispensed between the platoons. In our CP, there is an area where items are put so that soldiers can stop and look through them to get what they may need. All three boxes were set out there. We'll all take a picture with the next box you send.

We are now set on popcorn and Girl Scout cookies, but would love Rice Krispie® treats, compact binoculars, and flashlights. Any support is always welcomed. Thank you very much. We have been staying very busy with our patrols.




Thank you again for all your support and prayers.

P.S. My Soldiers wanted to know if people can make contributions to you through web site?

Sincerely,

Thad

SGT Thaddeus Flaherty
TF Bayonet A Co. KFOR 9
Minnesota Army National Guard

Dated 8 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the care package you guys sent me. My unit just moved me to a new patrol base and we just started. Anything you send us will be put to great use out here. The guys love everything you sent. Every day life here is simple: one shower unit, a couple of porter johns and two buildings to live in.

I just wanted to drop you a note to say thank you. We loved the box you guys sent us.

Thanks for making our lives a little better,

SGT Robert J. Bronson
Commo NCOIC 3/320th FA, 101st ABN - Red Knight Rakkasans
U.S. Army

Dated 7 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

This is just a little note to say thank you. We have some Soldiers whose pod burned down by accident. We made up packages for them and it dwindles our supplies down a lot. Then I was wondering what to do about the fact that we didn't have anything for the other Soldiers if they came needing anything. Then your care package arrived. You all are angels and truly a blessing. We are fighting a different kind of war here. But for me, Vietnam veterans like your Branch Director, Rick Collins, are heroes. They had it a lot rougher than us.

Thank you so much!!!

PFC Toni L. Hill
HQ 400MP BN
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 5 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Attached are a couple of photos our PAO person took of yesterday's Volunteer Community Relations (VCR) sort. Included in the sort were your boxes of clothing, toys and stuffed animals and beanie babies. The stuffed animals were included in school backpacks which we will deliver soon to an Afghan girls' school near the city of Kabul. Rest assured they will bring many smiles to these young girls! The clothing was sorted and will be delivered to either a refugee camp or a poor community within the city.

Your generous donations of clothing and toys are making a big difference in the lives of the Afghan people and we, the VCR volunteers, cannot thank you enough for your generosity. Americans have always been a giving and a caring nation and your donations continue to show our goodwill.

You are bringing smiles and much happiness to many people thousands of miles away!



Thank you G2TT volunteers!!!!!!!!

Respectfully,

LTC Juan Montoya
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 5 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks to all of you, the Marines and Sailors of VMFA-115 are receiving care packages at an amazing rate from Give2TheTroops. Mail call is a sight to see. We are working around the clock and the tremendous support we receive from your organization. It has had a measurable impact on our morale. I believe your point of contact for my division is Sgt Joshua Griffeth.

Thank you and your volunteers,

GySgt Manuel G. Crisologo, Quality Assurance Chief
VMFA 115
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 4 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

I'm Cpl. Ruben Bermudez and I truly wanted to thank you for the care packages you sent our unit. They lifted up our spirits and made everyone feel appreciated. They also came at a great time where we will start new missions that require us to stay in other bases so the travel size items work out great. Just to tell you a bit about me, I am 31 years old and a reservist from Orlando, FL. I work as a Stock Broker for Charles Schwab & Company. when I am not deployed. Our Platoon is made up of reservists from Orlando and Texas, Arkansas along with a few Active Duty Marines from 29 Palms, CA. We also have two females in our Platoon, not sure if I mentioned that when I signed up. I started a Community Box at our tent where I have all the items for everyone to take items that are needed. I will try to take a Platoon picture and send it to you as soon as possible.

Once again I can't even begin to show my gratitude in behalf of our Platoon for these care packages. I hope to keep in touch as much as possible.

Thanks,

Cpl Ruben Bermudez
CLR-15 Trans. Co. (3rd PLT)
USMC

Dated 4 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your care packages yesterday. Today was the first chance I've had to thank your organization. Everything you sent was great - it was like Christmas around here! I have distributed the contents to all the Marines and they are grateful as am I.  I don't have a lot of time to write but I wanted to thank you and to wish Andi Grant's husband a quick and safe return from Iraq and to wish her an easy, if there is such a thing, deployment. This is number 7 for my wife and I, the third for this war, and I have no doubt that her job at home with our children is the harder of the two, and I am continually amazed and grateful for her strength and bravery. Thanks for supporting us and "Semper Fidelis" to Andi's husband who is also deployed to Iraq right now.

I have attached a picture of me and some of the Jarheads. I am the 5th from the right, in the flight suit with the shoulder holster, yeah the bald ugly guy. Thanks again for the packages. I will send some more pictures later if that's okay. I got some pretty cool ones of some sand storms.

Semper Fidelis from the Sand Box,

SSgt. Michael "Mike" Wheeler
VMAQ-3
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! It's me - James Brice - just checking in with you and to say hello to my best friends. I haven't forgotten about you. I wanted to let you know you have made the guys in my unit very happy!

Thanks for everything you have done. Hope to hear from you soon!

Love,

SSG James Brice
HHC 1-8 IN BN.
U.S. Army

Dated 3 May, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Colorado Branch),

We would like to thank everyone from the Rocky Mountains, as well as CAPT Rilea, for the Give2TheTroops care package we received.  It brought us each a little piece of home, as well as smiles to our faces... Thank you for your continuous support!

Attached is a picture of MWSS-274's S-1 Section, based out of MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina.  
L-R and their home state:  Sgt Romano -  Florida; Cpl Ward -  Maryland; CWO2 Cress - New York; Cpl Lewis - Michigan; and LCpl White - Louisiana



Sincerely,
CWO2 Bradley J. Cress
MWSS-274, H&S Co
U.S. Marine Corps

Very Respectfully,
Sgt Jeffery L. Crawford
NCOIC, MCLC, LogCom FIS
U.S. Marine Corps

I’m so sorry it has taken me so long to respond; I’ve been insanely busy. We received your box, thank you so so much, I tried to sneak some pictures but got into a little trouble because we are not allowed to take pictures where we work, but I tried. The guys were pretty stoked about the XBOX 360 game system you sent us. We’ve been able to use it a couple times but with such bad sandstorms we try to keep it stored up because it gets really dirty around here. Our computers get all jammed up all the time because of it and we don’t want the same thing to happen to the XBOX.

We’ve had 3 really bad sandstorms within the last week. So bad to where people just won’t go back to the ‘cans’ (where we live) because they’d rather not walk in the dirt; hell, we won’t even walk to the chow hall if it gets so bad. There were a few guys that had to walk in it, they wore their gas masks just so they could breathe. They were some of the worst sandstorms I’d seen in all my time in Iraq . Well I’d better get going…

I just want to say thank you again. Thank you for putting all this effort and time into bringing a smile to our faces.

Take care - hope all’s well,

Cassie 

Dated 28 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut and North Carolina Branches),

We received your care package and I gave it to my staff. It was greatly appreciated and recently I sent a note of thanks to the North Carolina branch. I am in a unique position in the unit, where there are a dozen officers underneath and many more personnel and I would never put myself before them.

A note to your Founder, Andi Grant: As the wife of a Deployed Marine, you have sacrificed twice. You have provided a great service to our country as military wife and also in supporting all of the troops who are deployed. Thank you so much. I am a New York Air National Guard Unit Commander, so if your husband decides to go to NY (on Long Island, in Westhampton), let me know and I will put him in touch with one of my recruiters.

I am a prior enlisted Officer with over 15 years in and know how important organizations, and the people who support them, are to all of the troops. Please thank all the children who sent us cards that were in the package.

We would like to send a certificate as a token of our appreciation.

Again, Thank you on behalf of my entire unit.

Very Respectfully,

Capt Celestino J. Martinez, Section Commander
379 EAMXS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 27 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hi! How are you all doing? I am doing well. I just wanted to thank you for the care package with goodies and all the Girl Scout cookies. They really reminded me of home. I am sorry it took me so long to get this note to you, but I've been very busy here lately. I am very grateful for everything that you all are doing for all of us.

Thank you again,

SPC Rick Francis
2nd SBCT 25th ID
U.S. Army

Dated 26 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl Evan Kutz. We just received (3) packages from your organization today and everyone cannot thank you enough. We are handing the goodies out and everyone is very thankful for it all. We are going to hang the post cards up in all the shops and they are adorable.

Here are some pictures of some of the Marines in our shops. Sorry I couldn't get one big shop photo but its hard to get everyone together at one time.

Once again thank you very much for everything you do it is greatly appreciated.




Semper Fidelis.

Cpl Evan Kutz
1sr Sup Bn H&S Co/S-3
United States Marine Corps

Dated 26 April, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

It's kind of weird... for a while now we thought Christmas was supposed to be in December. Well, come to find out it was TODAY, as we just received your care packages and they were awesome. I don't think I have seen the guys all together and this happy since we arrived in this country.

I'm not just "churchin" this up, either. It was really nice to see everyone so happy. We have already acquired a picnic table and are working on setting up a small internal poker tournament. The prizes will be snacks or time off as money is against the rules.

We really appreciate your support and generosity. If it weren't for Americans like yourselves, we would be wasting our time and effort.

A little about us - our unit is from Camp Lejeune and we are part of the II MEF Headquarters group. We are a tactical electronic warfare unit. We provide direct support to the warfighter, often right next to him in the front line. If you all have any questions, please let me know.

Thanks again for your support.

Semper Fi,

SSgt John F. Kirk, IV
2 MEU, CE S-2 RADBN DET
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just want to thank each and every one of you for the care package. People like yourselves make it that much easier to survive here and accomplish the mission. Please continue to support all us troops and pray for our soon, safe return home.

May God bless you, your families, and the USA!

Sincerely,

SPC Nathan Briner
HQ 400 MP BN
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 23 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Thank you so much for sending us the "Softball In A Bag" kit. Here are just a few photos for you. There are more to come because it got dark out. The guys used the equipment and say "thanks." Their next game is Sunday so I will try again then. This was a tournament and they won I believe 12 to 8.

Thanks so much. We really appreciate it!




Love,

SPC Andrew Sage
HHC, 44th ESB
U.S. Army

Dated 22 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you very much for the care package I received from you. You don't know how nice it was to get some very needed items that aren't available out here in Iraq, especially the healthy food and snacks!!!!  I just wanted to say thanks!!!!!

Sincerely,
 
SSgt Brandon Lynn
332 ELRS Det5/ATOC
U.S. Air Force

Dated 21 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care package for my unit today. Thank you. It was very helpful to my Marines. I understand that you send more care packages once you know they are received. Please keep them coming, they definitely bring a sense of home to the younger Marines here.

Semper Fi and God Bless,

GySgt Thomas Kopp, Radar Chief
MACS-2 Det A
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Good day. I wanted to thank you for the care package that you sent us. It arrived about one week ago. Our personnel appreciated the reading material, cards, Girl Scout Cookies, treats, and the coffee. We appreciate the support from folks back in the States.

Respectfully,

MAJ Christopher Drum, MS Chief, Medical Logistics MNC-I Surgeon
HQ, MNC-I, 18th Airborne Corps
U.S. Army

Dated 19 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

We have happy girls in my unit with the contents of the care package you sent us! The "Boys" did indeed "stay out" of the "Girls Only" box you prepared for the females in my unit.

Thank you,

MAJ Geff Davey
3SB/S3
U.S. Army

Dated 19 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

WOW! I cannot thank you enough for your care packages. They were most welcome ... as a little piece of home. The funny part of your letter was that you try to reach out to troops in remote areas. It is ironic because I am in a camp which boasts the largest PX in theater ... but has fewer items than a 7-11 store. That was one of the biggest disappointments, which your care packages are alleviating.

As for your latest box you sent ... AMAZING! Everything that we asked for, you delivered, in spades, and then added more that we could really use.

Please continue to send my troops your care packages, because we need all of the "love" we can get.

I truly will never be able to express how much your packages mean to us, because these tidbits from home make life bearable.

Sincerely,

1LT George J. Fowler, Platoon Leader
1123rd Transportation Co.
Arkansas Army National Guard

Received 18 April, 2008
Persian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings from the USS ROSS DDG 71. We love you deeply! We had tears of joy in our eyes when the Helicopter landed on deck and called out, “Mail Call for CS1 Scott, and he’s going to need help with this one.”

This awesome care package that was touched by so many caring hands and hearts came right on time.  The morale onboard is a little low, but this day it sky-rocketed. 

Thank you all for supporting us. Please let everyone know that we thank them from the bottom of our hearts for the donations and the inspiration it has given us to not be so humdrum.  We have a job to do, because we have families and friends back home who are standing behind us in this fight for freedom and to keep our children and neighborhoods safe.  Thank you for giving us strength to carry on.

I CS1 (SS) Cedric Scott, thank you for being a blessing to my troops and me.  I pray to our Heavenly Father for you and your wonderful families, and your awesome volunteers who have touched us in more ways than one.

(P.S. Thank you Mrs. Andi Grant, you’re the bomb. I mean you’re really awesome!) 

CS1 (SS) Cedric L. Scott
USS Ross (DDG 71)
U.S. Navy

FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU SAYS THE LORD, PLANS OF PEACE NOT OF DISASTER, PLANS OF HOPE AND A FUTURE.

Received 18 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 18 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

OMG, WOW!!  I just picked up two HUGE boxes from our unit's post office!  I'm so excited to open the boxes and see what's inside!!  My roommate is sleeping so I'm trying no to be too loud.  I'm going to bed in an hour, when he gets up and gets ready for work, then I get around 7pm (I'm on the graveyard shift). 

Thanks again!!  I'll write you again after I open them!

CPT Patrick DeForest
HHC, TF ODIN
U.S. Army

Dated 18 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you! WOW! What a great box you sent us! You made everyone's day here.

I thought the cards and postcards with the kids' drawings were the BEST thing!

We really appreciate all the stuff you sent.

Thanks,

SFC Craig Smith
B Co., DSTB, 4 ID, 2nd BCD
U.S. Army

Dated 18 April, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Today we received the box with the digital wrist BP cuffs. They're exactly what the guys were wanting for a while now. They are a lot lighter than what we usually carry and give us much quicker readings. Stuff like this can speed up our treatment, thus possibly saving lives. In combat medicine speed is essential.

Also a couple of guys really liked the microwave you sent, which we use not only to heat up food, but also to heat up IV bags and other fluids.

We also appreciate the hair clippers and the small DVD players you sent. If you happen to come across a few more of the DVD players, let us know. We normally use our computers to watch movies but computers are expensive and with the conditions over here they don't last long. The fine dust ruins everything.   

As you can see in the photos, we're already putting the BP cuffs to good use. The idea though is not to use them here in the Aid Station but to use them in the field. I already handed two out to my line medics and the other two guys should be here within the week so they can get theirs. Please know the guys love these things and it will make their job a little easier out there. All the guys told me to tell you "thanks" and and God bless you and all the work your doing.





You guys are the best,

SGT Benjamin Sanchez
Battle Co. 2/503rd
U.S. Army

Dated 17 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi! I'm SPC Michael R. Calma and I just received your box. It's wonderful to see how much people care for us troops out on the field and even in the office. It just so happens that our coffee maker gave up on us the day before we got your box and well the office guys are grateful for the large coffee maker we received from you. So from the many troops out in my company, and from me, too, we all say thank you so much. It means a lot to us that strangers we barely know do so much as take time out of their lives to say "thank you" for our service. It really makes what we do out here so worth it.

So once again thank you,

SPC Michael R. Calma
ACO/1STB/1BCT/101st Airborne
U.S. Army

Dated 17 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for sending us care packages. As soon as they arrived here, my NCO helped me pick up the box and we put them in our break room. Everyone really ate those Girl Scout cookies! They were all gone by the next day, but by that time, your second care package had arrived here.

The troops love getting things from home. It makes this place a little bit better. We all can't wait to go home.

Thanks so much for taking care of us.

PFC Candace Brown
HHC, 1BCT, 101st ABN DIV
U.S. Army

Dated 17 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the 2 HUGE boxes of toiletries, snacks, cards, and other supplies. I received the boxes here at Camp XXXX (OPSEC)located on the Iraq, and the contents of both boxes have been quickly disseminated to the servicemen and women aboard the base. Everyone is astounded at the generosity and compassionate concern from all of the patriotic people who made donations, and we are thoroughly impressed that Give2TheTroops has spread across the States.

It's great to know that there are so many people back home who are keeping us in their thoughts. Before you send any more packages to me for distribution, though, I want to get you some addresses for Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and Sailors who are further out on the cutting edge of our efforts and who have greater need for these types of things. I've put a call out to some of our outlying commands to provide good mailing addresses for care package shipments, and will get back to you shortly with these.

Thanks again for doing what you do.

Semper Fidelis,

Colonel Patrick J. McCarthy
MNC-I C-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received 2 packages from your organization today. We have taken some pictures, but have not had a chance to download them yet. As soon as we do, I will send them to you for your web site. I would just like to say thank you for everything Give2TheTroops is doing. It is wonderful to receive a package while deployed and some of the Marines do not have families back home that can afford to send things. The fact that Andi took the initiative to start a program and see it blossom is such a great way to show us troops the country's appreciation!

My Marines and I read all the cards and letters you included. Can you please express our gratitude to all those who wrote? Thank you!

Please continue to support us.

R/S,
GySgt Bruce Thompson
1st Supply BN, Maintenance Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 April, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello, my name is SGT Kandie Mendoza. I recently received a box from you guys and wanted to take the time to stop and say thank you!! I signed up for your organization's care package program to make sure my soldiers here get mail from back home. Not too many of my soldiers get mail from home so when I received your box I just brought it to the office and gave it to them.

You guys are wonderful and it makes us feel proud to know while we are here serving our country, people like you are back home serving us! Not too many Americans know what we have to go through, and want to help support us. So thank you again from everyone on my team!! We appreciate everything you are doing for us!

SGT Kandie L. Mendoza
TF MED, 602d ASMC
U.S. Army

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

I just wanted to tell you thank you for the package that I picked up this past Thursday, the 10th of April. In it were some really nice items that I have since been handing out to the soldiers in my section and our unit. From the books and magazines to the candy, gum, shirts, toiletries, and snacks to name but a few your organization once again outdid yourselves in shipping a box of “love” to us here in Iraq!

Good luck in all that you do. My prayers upon returning home will “shift” to include organizations such as yours –and of course to spouses such as Andi Grant with someone deployed back over here.

Take care, God Bless all of you, and thank you once again!

V/R

LTC David M. Schmidt, Chief of Operations
316th ESC, G3
U.S. Army

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

On behalf of the 407 Air Expeditionary Group in xxxx Air Base, Iraq we would like to say thank you very much for the care package you sent. It means a lot and was quickly dispersed throughout the group. It's a great feeling to know that people really care and support us while we are over here.

Here is a photo that was just recently taken of the entire group.

Again thank you for your support and all you do.



A1C Cody Sasse
407 AEG/CCEA
U.S. Air Force

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I wanted to write and thank you for the generosity in your giving the packages to me and my team. Everything in them was awesome! It's good to see that your organization has a branch in the same state (Washington) that myself and 2 others on my team are from. 3 others are from California. So we're all from the West Coast.

At this time I am happy to say that we shall soon be leaving here. Although we're leaving, there is another team here who replaced us who I'm sure would love to reap the benefits of your organization.

Thank you again and I'll be joining you all in the Good ole USA soon!

SFC Vernon Bryant
CMATT, ANMTB, 3 RTC
U.S. Army

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I got another box from you today.  Of course it was a huge hit yet again.  I will be sending pictures soon of the people enjoying the contents.  We're looking forward to receiving our"Baseball in a Bag" from you all, and also the toys to hand out to the children here.  Again, we appreciate all you guys do. 

Thanks again,

SFC Charles Ahlborn
HHC, STB; G6 NETOPS
U.S. Army

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the Soldiers of C Company, STB, 4ID, I wanted to thank you for sending the care packages to us. All of the packages were promptly passed out immediately to many of the Soldiers.

Words cannot express our gratitude that there are people like all of you who still care and support the Soldiers deployed. This is going to be a long year, and knowing there are people like you supporting us makes our cause even greater.

Most of my Soldiers are between the ages of 18-24; and then a smaller percentage ranges up to 42-years-old. All are volunteers who are patriotic and make my time here go by faster.  I am exceptionally proud of my troops who work around the clock to help fight the War on Terrorism here in Iraq.

Thanks again for the packages! We really appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Sincerely,
MAJ R. Jane Sonak (Signal Corps Major, Commanding) and the Soldiers of C Company
Special Troops Battalion, 4 ID
U.S. Army

Dated 16 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We just received a bountiful care package full of goodies from your chapter of Give2TheTroops. We are extremely grateful to your organization for taking the time to send us such a heartfelt package. Please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone in your organization for the work they do.

In today's climate of political turmoil about the War in Iraq, it's great to see caring people like yourselves are willing to show their unwavering support of America's service members! Once again, thanks for everything and keep up the good work!



Capt Troy D. Thomas
CAFTT – AFTS, Unit 6045
U.S. Air Force

Dated 15 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I finally got back from traveling around Iraq. I came back to a large box of baseball equipment from you. My soldiers were so happy to…. We have been out playing at least 5 days out of the week. We just started our season over here and I got back just in time. I am including some photos. If you look carefully at the photos, many of us are wearing your Give2TheTroops black t-shirts! I will send more photos when I get them off another soldier’s camera. Thank you so much for the great support.






Please tell our "Baseball In A Bag" sponsors: "THANK YOU!!!!"

Love Ya,

SSG Jeffrey Murdorf
C 126TH FIN
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to take a minute to tell you how much I appreciate the care package that you sent us. It was a wonderful surprise. I am sharing it with the rest of my unit; I can assure you that everything will find a good home! Please pass my thanks to all who volunteer with you. Your organization is making a real difference every day, and I can tell you that we here in Iraq are energized knowing there are so many good people back home.

You are all very dedicated people and my hat goes off to you.

Thank you so much and God bless you.

Sincerely,
SSG Patricia M. Font
Combat Aviation Brigade, 1ID Religious Support Team
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Greetings! I wanted to send you a thank you from the men and women of the 455 Security Forces Squadron in Afghanistan. We received a box from you with several items in it. It was distributed to all of the men and women on my flight.

Just wanted to say thank you for your thoughts, prayers and packages.

Sincerely,
(M) Sgt John C. Jellison, Flight Chief
455th ESFS/S3OA
U.S. Air Force

Dated 14 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the package I received from you today. I appreciate it more than words can say. You sent me some of my favorite Girl Scout cookies, Samoas, thin mints, and peanut butter patties. Samoas are worth their weight in gold figuratively here. Every one of our large Soldier team members LOVES the "Samoas". The thing I liked the most was the bible verses on the boxes. Being a saved, born again Baptist, I really enjoyed that.

God bless you.

SPC Gary Harders, Jr.
710th Ord Co (EOD)
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Again, we cannot thank you enough for all you have done - not only for us but for the Afghan people.  Your most recent boxes are included somewhere in this stack of boxes being sorted by this group of servicemen and women volunteering their time and effort to help with our Volunteer Community Relations (VCR) Program.  You can see one of your boxes in the top photo. If you look closely, on the inside of one of the box flaps, the Soldiers wrote "Thanks G2TT".

Your donated items will be sorted and boxed/bagged for delivery to needy Afghan families during our next VCR mission.  Rest assured that every item you have donated from clothes, to school items, to toys will be put to good use by those in need. 

Thank you for caring about others and for making a difference!!!

Respectfully,

LTC Juan Montoya, Advisor, ANA GS Inspector General
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to write to let you know that my platoon received three (3) care packages from your organization. I don't think there is anything that makes a Soldier's day more than to receive mail and to get a package with goodies from back home is just that much better - Thank you! I went to your Web site and read a little more about your organization, it is amazing to me that so many would make such an effort to do something those of us serving over here.

I also read how Andi's husband is again deployed over here in some remote location without many amenities. I can't say we are in the same circumstance, but we are over here to do our part nonetheless. We are a part of an Army Signal Battalion supporting communications for all of theater. My company is in xxx (OPSEC), Iraq and my platoon is responsible for maintenance and repair of cable, as well as new installations - in other words we keep people's internet and phones working.

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that what was sent was very much appreciated.

Thanks again,
Ben
2LT Benjamin Gruver, Cable Platoon Leader
D CO, 40th ESB
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello! I'm SSG Margaret Harris and I am the recipient of one of your wonderful care packages. I just want to tell your branch and organization THANK YOU!!! It meant the world to me to receive something that I could share with my Soldiers who didn't receive letters or mail during the week. You sent me everything that I asked for and even more. I'm thankful because I was able to bless other Soldiers with the items you sent to me. You all have no idea how your boxes boost our morale here in Iraq.

From across the water we thank You for your SUPPORT!

SSG Margaret Harris
MNC-I CMD GRP (SCJS)
U.S. Army

Dated 13 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted let you know that we received another package from your organization. It was again well received. It was great getting the Battleship game, movies, video games and Girl Scout cookies (they were gone in about 2 days).

Again, thanks to you all for the support that you are showing to all of us deployed over here. It is little things like a cookie, a nice card, a bag of beef jerky that keeps us connected to home and brightens our days over here.

LTC Travis A. Nowak, Deputy Transportation Officer
TC MNC-I C4
U.S. Army

Dated 13 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I want to thank you all who contributed to the care package I received. Everything was great. I distributed it out between my unit and everyone says thank you. It is our pleasure and honor to serve the great people of the United States. A little about myself: I am 26 years old, I am stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. I am married and have a two-year-old daughter. I was born and raised in Texas before I joined the military. This is my 2nd deployment and so far it is going by fast.

Well once again thank you guys for everything.

CPL David F. Benoit, Jr.
HHB 3/320th FA/S-3, 101 ABN
U.S. Army

Dated 13 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for your care packages and the kind letters of support. I shared everything with the company and we all really appreciate it. I've sent you a copy of our newsletter that we send out each month to family and friends. It's a more personal way of saying thanks to everyone and keeping you updated as to what we're doing over here. Hope you enjoy.



1SG Robert Controne
D CO 2-4 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 12 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thanks so much for the awesome package you sent us. The Games, Books and Girl Scout Cookies will be enjoyed by everyone in my company. Just so you know a little about who you sent the package to... My name is 1SG Kenneth Clayborn. I am currently in stationed in xxx (OPSEC), Iraq conducting my fourth combat tour with the United States Army.

I have currently been deployed to Iraq for 4 months on this tour and I expect to be here though xxx (OPSEC), Iraq. I am currently scheduled to take my Rest and Relaxation Leave on or about the last week in July through the middle of August this summer. I will get approximately 18 days leave.

I have been in the Army for just under 18 years and am 36 years old. I have a wife of 12 years and two children, ages 10 and 8. I have included a picture of me so you can also put a face with the name.

Feel free to correspond when you have the time to do so. I will do the same if you like.



Again, Thanks for the package and the wonderful pictures.

1SG Kenny Clayborn
C CO 1-21 IN BN 43007
U.S. Army

Dated 12 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to give all of you a great big thank you for all of the items that you have sent us. Please let everyone know that they have given the men and women here in XXXX, Iraq a big joy!

Thank you,
SSG Jerald Bye
HHT 3/3 ACR
U.S. Army

Dated 11 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the three care packages which included Whey Protein powder, vitamins, Girl Scout Cookies, an XBOX system & games, towels, snacks, etc.  My team and I loved everything you sent and made all the other units very jealous.  We shared a lot of the items with them and told them about you all.  I think they will be contacting you very soon.  We all loved the letters and words of encouragement, too. 

I'm sending you several photos of us opening your boxes and with the items.






Thank you so much, from the bottom of our hearts,
 
Sgt Daniel Matthews
2/11, Det 2, Team Spartan
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 11 April, 2008
Bahrain

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

All the guys were really happy to get your care package. The football went over really well. They were really excited. They don't say very much, but I can read it in the tone of their voices and see it on the looks on their faces. We are all very grateful for anything and everything. It is kind of hard to just put a list together of things we want or need. But I will do my best.

I attached a photo of my section. One Soldier is not in the picture because he is at another camp. I've seen him once in the 2 months I have been here.



The name of our section is the XVIII Airborne Corps / MNC-I C3 CADOC.

Thanks again,

SPC Chad J. Seibold
MNC-I C-3 JOC CADOC
U.S. Army

Dated 11 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I want to thank you for two packages I received today from you. I brought the boxes from the mail room and the Marines at the ammo dump were excited to say the least. They can now pass time by with the PS1 system and utilize our newly made driving range. The snacks are a plus and the movies are a much appreciated necessity in fighting off the enemy which is boredom.

On behalf of the BLAHA Marines I take pleasure in thanking you all for your patriotism to our country and support to the Marines. If you would like, the Marines and I can fly the National Colors here in Iraq and send it to you. Let me know.

SEMPER FIDELIS,

SSgt Teofilo G. Galindo, Ammunitions Chief
RCT-1
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 11 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received more boxes from you and they were remarkable.  The guys were amazed and loved it all.

The boxes we got today contained The X-BOX 360 system with games; hand-signed personalized fans from people back home; a digital camera which I gave to our Doc; some running shoes for Cpl Nelson; lots of snacks and the camel backs ... the guys were in disbelief. 

We have so many snacks now and 2 enormous boxes of baby wipes.  So many other things you included - I can't remember.  I have an American flag from people in Eastern Connecticut and some things that were quilted.  Everything is surreal.  You guys are really incredible.  My Marines are going crazy right now over the baseball gear you sent.  They said they would pass the balls today.

Your boxes also contained the "cool neck ties" and I have additional ones so I gave about 16 away to another unit of the infantry guys since they do more foot patrols than we do.  Everyone was very happy.  

As you know, we live in a remote combat outpost. We are in a building and every window is filled with sandbags. We have no showers or toilets, so the wet wipes you sent were a Godsend.
 
By the way the guys hooked up the X-BOX system you sent today and they must be having fun because they are in there playing it now and I hear them yelling every 5 minutes!

We are now loaded with goods from you and our living space is getting smaller.  You guys are really amazing.  The next team that comes in will get the Playstation, TV and the X-Box systems which we will leave behind for them. They will be all hooked up when they get here - thanks to G2TT.

Here are a few photos we took with your boxes, items and some banners that were included in the boxes.






Thanks again,

Sgt B. H. Grant
PTT Team 23
U.S. Marine Corps

Thank you so much for the two care packages you sent us. The Marines loved it all and all the items (especially the detergents and baby wipes) are a blessing. All the Marines hung up the cards you included for motivation. Here is a photo of us we just took.

Thank you so very much.

SSgt Darien E. McCarthy
AAMNF MWCS-38
U.S. Marine Corps

Yesterday I received two boxes from you - one full of clothes and the other filled with toys, Beanie Babies and cookies and candy.  We will give the much needed clothes and toys to families this weekend as we have another VCR trip planned.  I will ensure your donated items are included in our distribution. 

The snacks and candy went to our Base Defense Operations Center (BDOC).  The two Soldiers in the picture run our BDOC and most all departing our camp on missions pass through the BDOC and your snacks will keep them smiling. 

You have touched many lives here in Afghanistan - not only servicemen and women but also Afghans.  From the bottom of my heart I thank you for all you are doing and I am sure if the Afghans could thank you they would be saying "Tashakor" a hundred times over which is "thank you" in Afghani.

Respectfully,

LTC Juan Montoya, Advisor, ANA GS Inspector General
CSTC-A, IG
U.S. Army

Dated 7 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We received an unexpected care package today in the mail. I was quite surprised when I came in the office and noticed a very large box that was addressed to me. I opened the box and was very surprised. I received a lot of nice and useful things ... from snacks and toiletries to DVD's and Playstation games (which the guys enjoyed very much!

I just want to thank your organization for all the wonderful things you are doing for us and the Soldiers out here. I am part of the 15th Transportation Company. We do logistical convoys and deliver supplies and water to different units through out Iraq. We play a very important and vital role out here. I work in our Operations cell and work 12-hour shifts at night which at times can be very long and drawn out.

We are very thankful and lucky to have people like you out there who really care for us. It really means a lot to us to know that people out there really care for us and support us.

Again, I want to thank you for the wonderful things you are doing.

Sincerely,
SGT Amanda Webb
15th Transportation Company
U.S. Army

Dated 6 April, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received the trophies you sponsored for our race and they look awesome. My unit is sponsoring a 10K run on May 17th, 2008. The run will take place at 0630 simultaneously in Iraq, Afghanistan and Fort Campbell, Kentucky at the same time.

We are the 101st Screaming Eagles from Fort Campbell and this is our third deployment in the last 5 years. This 10K run is such a significant event for us. As you know, it takes a lot to pull it off it takes a lot of cooperation and contributions from the folks back home.

It had been a struggle to try to find sponsors for this event over here, so we really appreciate your support.

We are so grateful. .. words cant express ...

MSG Jerry J. Richards, Jr.
HHC 101st CAB
U.S. Army

On behalf of Navy Customs Battalion Tango, Delta Company, I just want to thank you again for all of your support.  We received 2 more boxes from you - the Girl Scout Cookies and goodies and enjoyed every single one of them!!  We are just finishing up our tour here in Iraq and getting ready to redeploy.  Our replacements, NAVELSG FWD Hotel, will be here soon and I am sure they will appreciate your continued support. 

I will be sure to pass on your contact information.  Please take care and know your hard work is very appreciated.

V/R,

YN2 Trina M. Cornelison
Navy Customs Battalion TANGO, DELTA Company
U.S. Navy

Dated 3 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

WOW!! Thank you so much for being so generous!! I've been out here twice so far in my enlistment and out of the year and a half I've been here, these care packages you sent me were the BEST care packages I've (and my troops) have ever received!!

Thank you for the "Christmas / New Years /Valentines /Easter" that we didn't get! All of your support and gifts were greatly, greatly appreciated. I can't even express how great you all just made us feel.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

Sgt Cassandra Jorgensen
MWCS 38, Unit 41137
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 2 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!  I just received another package from you today.  The guys came and woke me up so we could open it!  Thanks so much for all the great stuff and the time and effort you put in.  It really does make a difference to us here. 
WE APPRECIATE IT A LOT! 

Have a great day!

SSG Robert C. Casella
E Co 1-3 AVN
U.S. Army

Dated 1 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to address this letter to your Founder, Mrs. Andi Grant, and her volunteers:

Dear Mrs. Grant,
Thank you for your untiring efforts to just even have the energy to start a program as large as yours. It takes a lot of energy to keep pace with such a herculean logistics effort. I know it has taken huge amounts of volunteers to also meet and make deadlines in shipments. My Marines salute you. We are a Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron. Most of the Marines deployed currently are on their first tour, so the little things mean a lot to them. Keep up the great work and support. I visited your web site and I'm glad you and your folks were recognized by the President ... as you and your organization should be!

Again, thank you so much,

MGySgt James R. Adwell, Senior Enlisted Advisor
MWHS-3
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 April, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

First I would like to say thank you for all that you do for us Soldiers. My name is SGT Candace Spearman and I am currently deployed over in xxx (OPSEC), Iraq. We have quite a few troops who work in my shop. Five of them are female Soldiers. We only have one male and that is my Boss. People tease him all the time about working with just females, but we work great together - like one big happy family.

The care packages that you sent me were distributed to all of the new Soldiers we had just received. They were pleased and send their blessings to you. You are all truly a blessing and are appreciated more than you will ever know.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. The smiles that you put on these Soldiers' faces were priceless.

Take care and once again, thanks for everything.

SGT Candace Spearman
HHC, 10th BSB, 10th Mtn Div.
U.S. Army

Dated 31 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU SO, SO, SO MUCH! That’s about all I can say…well, that and"WOW!" I can’t believe that you guys would send all that stuff out here to us. That made our year! We all enjoyed digging through the boxes. It was like seeing 6-year-olds run to the Christmas Tree on Christmas morning. WOW!! Thank you so much!

I attached a couple of pictures of us. I am the female that is in both the pictures. Thank you for everything you do! You don’t even know how much happier that you made my unit! Thank you.

I can’t even express our thankfulness. Thanks.

Sgt. Cassandra Jorgensen, Data Network Specialist
AAMNF - MWCS 38
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! My name is SGT Roberts Woods. On behalf of my unit, MACS-2, DET-A, I would like to thank you for the care package you sent us. My unit has played the board games you sent and the guitar every day since we received the box! Some of the junior guys on my Detachment are showing me how to play the guitar and read sheet music. It's a lot harder than it looks. I finally got "Mary Had A Little Lamb" down. The other Marines out here are pros on it.

The Connect 4 and Skipo games are a huge hit! I have never seen people get so competitive over "Connect 4" before.

Once again, THANK YOU!

Sgt. Robert Woods
MACS-2, DET-A
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 29 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to take time out to express my deepest sense of gratitude for the “LARGE” care packages and cards from your organization, which you sent to my unit.  I have been in the Marine Corps for over a quarter of a century now and I will say that your commitment and unselfishness to send such wonderful and helpful items is truly inspiring! 

I am the Food Service Officer for the 3rd Marine Air Craft Wing; I’m responsible for the feeding of all troops here in my area of responsibility that encompasses over 2/3rd of Iraq (THOUSANDS of Marines, Soldiers, and Sailors and DOD personnel). I love what I do, and I’m very honored and proud to serve my country! I’m presently on my 3rd tour over here as I was here for the initial war in 2001-2002, I came back for my second tour in 2005, and now I’m back for this current 12-month tour.

I’m saddened and honored to hear that Andi's husband is deployed again. Saddened because I know that the separation from the family will be hard; honored because it is Marines like Sgt. Grant who make us all proud to be called "MARINES", and an honor that we are over here together fighting from the freedoms of those back home!

It is because of people like you in your organization who give me the courage and drive to fight for the freedoms of all Americans. I am willing and prepared to give my life so that perhaps others can continue to be safe and secure in the comforts of their dwellings.

So I say thank you for taking time out of your life to express your thanks and send the wonderful packages. May God Bless you, your families, and may God Bless the United States of America!

Below is a photo of myself and some of the Marines that benefited from the wonderful packages that were sent.



Again thank you for what you do!! We want you to know the great impact you are having on us all!

"The Master Gunnery Sergeant"
*Est. 1958
*Abbreviation - MGySgt
* U.S. Marine Corps "only"
*Pay Grade-(E-9)
*Provides technical military leadership within their military occupational specialty
*Appropriate Short Title - “Master Gunny”

SEMPER FI!!

MGySgt James Starks, Food Service Officer
3D Marine Aircraft Wing
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 29 March, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received 2 large care packages from you yesterday, full of Girl Scout cookies and other goodies. It truly made my day! I know my fellow comrades were happy, too. I put the boxes in our MWR room where the Soldiers go to hang out. The boxes have already been dug into - it's great! I appreciate all you do for us. It's a great feeling knowing we have people who care for us and support us. Along with the support of our families, people like you make our deployment that much easier.

Thank you soooo much!

SPC Yvette A. Martinez
HHD, 503d MP BN (ABN)
U.S. Army

Dated 28 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 28 March, 2008
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

This gift of very useful Items that you sent us will be used by all. Everything in the box was a perfect gift. I will distribute the contents to the 50 guys that are with me. We say THANK YOU.

THANK YOU!

HT1 (SCW) Steven Christian
NMCB 14, DET CV
U.S. Navy

Dated 28 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received a care package from you on March 19th and then got another one from you today. It was great! Thanks again. Today's box got demolished! Those Girl Scout cookies were a big hit! You rock!



Thanks for the boxes and God Bless,



SPC Travis John Hoyle
64 BSB, 3rd BCT/ 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 27 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank you all for the 2 care packages you sent us. The items were passed out to Soldiers who needed them. Our PX here is very small and often runs out of things. The items you sent helped us out quite a bit. It is always good to know that people back in the States support us while serving in Iraq. Please tell everyone who donated or volunteered that we appreciate what they are doing.

Thanks,

1LT Michael Ellichman
HHC S-2, 1-8 IN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 27 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks much for the care package.  Your packages are always loved when received.  Your support is totally appreciated.  We thank you for all you do.

On a side note, my Sergeant Major is still anxiously awaiting her white 2008 X5 with 18” rims!

Thanks again.

SFC Charles Ahlborn
HHC, STB; G6 NETOPS
U.S. Army

Dated 26 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Earlier this week we received the package of baseball equipment from you! Thank you very much! Since we took it out of the box we started playing with it.  Now whenever you look here, there's at least a few people playing catch or hitting the balls around.  It really brought up the morale up here.  Thanks a lot for all you do.  Your time and effort is really appreciated.

Here are some photos of us with the "Baseball In A Bag" contents.  We really do appreciate it! 


      SPC Monte from Kodiak, AK and SGT Mueller                                                 SSG Ford from Newburg, MD left fielder




       SGT Mueller from Wauconda, IL                                                                        SGT Candelaria from Puerto Rico - Catching


        SGT Moore from Valdosta, GA Batting                                                          E Co 1-3 AVN 3-5 Platoon Baseball Team!!!





SSG Robert C. Casella
E Co 1-3 AVN
U.S. Army

Dated 22 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

This is SGT Woldridge and I am still in Iraq, except now I am on a Border Team. The days are very long and dangerous on the Iraqi border and I've been here more than 15 months. I am looking forward to coming home. My new team has given me a list of items that they would appreciate, if you can send them. I have mailed the list to Andi Grant ... we appreciate anything you do to help us out. These items would really help our morale.

God bless you all - Infantry All The Way!

SFC Eric Woldridge
BTT 4323, 3rd Region
U.S. Army

Dated 22 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I ant to thank you so much for the wonderful package. They arrived at the perfect time. We just moved into our new barracks and we needed new blankets. They were great! Our Chaplain wanted to say thank you, by the way. "Dean" is our dog (his name in Arabic means "religion.") He loves everything you sent, too. We couldn't get him to settle down for 2 minutes until he ate half the box of dog cookies and played with all the toys.

I just got back from a 4-day mission. It's starting to get real hot here and is now already 93°. I'm not used to that because I am from Michigan where we have 8 months of winter. I love the cold!

I just want to thank Give2TheTroops from all of us G4 Gun Truck Company. You should have seen my squad help me carry the 2 boxes. They were definitely willing! We tore into those boxes so quick. Trust me and believe me that the entire boxes were gone and used in 20 minutes!

If there's anything I can do for you, please let me know. I'm off to chow now but will write again soon.

I hope to hear from you all again.

Thanks so much,



SPC Travis John Hoyle
64 BSB, 3rd BCT/ 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 21 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all of your support. Every day people thank us for being their heroes, but people like you are our heroes.

Thank you all for all that you do for us.

HAPPY EASTER!

With the love and gratitude from the 87th CSSB

Members of the 87 CSSB
HHC 87 CSSB
U.S. Army

Dated 21 March, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for sending the Five (5) large care packages for our troops here in Kuwait. We are an infantry battalion from the California Army National Guard. Our mission is to perform convoy security mission throughout Iraq and Kuwait with our gun trucks.

Here's a photo of a few of our guys with a banner you included in one of the boxes:



Your support has boosted our morale.

Thank you,

Chaplain (LTC) Oran Roberts
HHC 1-160th IN
California Army National Guard

Dated 21 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I apologize for not contacting you sooner. Things have been moving pretty fast here lately and time has become a precious commodity. The Torch Run was a huge success!! The run was attended and participated by more than 350 U.S. military personnel and others supporting operations in Iraq.

The prizes you sent arrived with perfect timing and were the best ones we gave away. This 5k run was in honor of the “Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics” that has been held for 21 years on the Islands of Hawaii. For 21 years, law enforcement officers throughout Hawaii have run the Special Olympics Torch in the spirit Troy Barboza, a Special Olympics coach and Hawaii Police Department undercover detective who was murdered in his home in 1987 by a drug gang to prevent him from testifying.  

Soldiers from the 728th MP Battalion, first participated in the run in 2007 in Hawaii which led to the idea of sponsoring the event in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.



Thank you so much again for sending the prizes for the run!!

Very Respectfully,
PV2 Tyler Webster, Unit Public Affairs Representative
728th Military Police Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 21 March, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just received an absolutely wonderful package from your outstanding organization! God Bless North Carolina!!!  It is difficult to put in words how much the toiletries, snacks, etc. from everyone are appreciated!!  Your devotion of time, energy and resources is such a morale boost for all the deployed troops.  I can't tell you how excited my troops were when I opened the box ... it was better than Christmas I think!! 

Please thank everyone that contributed to make the care package ... YOU GUYS ROCK

The box arrived in great condition and everything was more than appropriate.  Keep up the awesome job that you are doing.  Hope you all have a great Easter!

God Bless,
MSgt Amy White
ARSIS-S, 205th RCAC S-4
U.S. Air Force

Dated 19 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Major Andy Risio and I command a Medical Evacuation Helicopter Company supporting Marines and Soldiers in western Iraq.

I wanted to thank you for all the care packages from "GIVE2THETROOPS" my Soldiers have received, including SGT Patrick Sullivan. It has meant a great deal to my Soldiers to know how much the people back home support them. We greatly appreciate everything you do.

MAJ Andrew Risio
C/1-214th AVN REGT
U.S. Army

Dated 18 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to thank everyone that put something into the care package that my crew and I received! I do not have the time to personally send a thank you to everyone. I wish I could, but hopefully this letter that gets posted on your web site will give my thanks to everyone. You guys are doing a great thing and I'm sure you are putting a smile on every troop's face - even if they don't have time to get back to you guys and tell you themselves!

The guys thought the music cards you sent were great! And the games ... and movies are always nice to have to pass the time that we rarely have to ourselves!!! We are winning this war, and we definitely can say that it is thanks also to you guys back home supporting us!

Thank you!

Airman David Imus
379 EMXS/MXMCF
U.S. Air Force

Dated 18 March, 2008
Kosovo

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your care package. Thank you for all you do for the Soldiers. I know it really means a lot to them when they receive items or cards in the mail or just something to let them know they are not forgotten.

This is my second time deployed to Kosovo in the last 3 years. I've had the opportunity to talk with the people in the towns. It's been a real good experience for me. At the same time, I do miss home, but time here has been going pretty fast. I always wish it would go faster, but I am fortunate enough to be with a great group of guys. After a while, you start to become like brothers.

I am from the Midwest, so the weather in the mountains is a lot like being home in the hills this time of year. I am 24-years-old and a Squad Leader. I am real young for my position, so it has been a good learning experience. I won't lie ... I am super excited to get back home and be with my family friends. For most of the guys, this is their first deployment, but for me, it's my second time to Kosovo. Kosovo has changed a lot since I was here last - almost all for the good.

On February 17th, Kosovo declared its independence. It was really neat being here to witness it firsthand. It's not every day you can say "I was there the first day that place was a new nation." Until lately, Kosovo hasn't been in the news, but because of all the conflicts going on toward the north, there has been a lot more media attention. Please keep Kosovo and us in your prayers.

Again, we thank you for all your support and thoughtfulness.

Sincerely,

SGT Thaddeus Flaherty
TF Bayonet A Co. KFOR 9
Minnesota Army National Guard

Dated 17 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for the care package that we received.  It has really meant a lot to all of our soldiers. 
Thank you! 

SSG Manuela Fuentes
HHC 12 CAB
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 17 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First off… a HUGE thanks is in order for the care package you set to Cpl. Ted Buck and our unit. It was by far the most awesome one we have gotten out here. The Multi-Tools and the Watches were quick to go as they are a hot item out here. I definitely had a spot for the t shirts, socks and everything else you sent.

I saw your Founder's name is "Andi", and that is what we call my sister Andreita. Up until we received your care package, I had never heard of another "Andi" spelling her name with an “i” (it’s usually Andy).

Anyway, once again, a big thank you for the package you sent us - it was definitely a welcome surprise. I have included a picture of some of my Marines and I at work so you can put a face with the names whose day you are brightening.

P.S. I will send Andi more photos on Myspace to post on the web.

Thanks again,

LCpl Adam R. Romero
MWSG-37 (S-4)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 March, 2008
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thanks form the 455 Vehicle Maintenance squadron. We received your box, and it honestly was the best care package box we have received! There was a little note from "Kat Little" in it who helped pack the box. All the items were needed and useful. Honestly every item in the box is gone, and it brought smiles to all the guys.



Thank you again for your support,

SSgt Thomas Kessler
435 ELRS/ LGRV
U.S. Air Force

just wanted to tell you thank you for the wonderful gifts from home that you all have sent to our unit while I have been deployed over here to Iraq. It has been a joy to not only receive the many packages, but also to share them with my fellow Soldiers in my section and unit. It has provided many smiles and many thank-you's to those of you at home who still support us and think of us as evidenced by your extreme generosity.

Please continue to send items over here to the other deserving Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines.

Again, I appreciate all that all of you have done on our behalf and thank you for your support of the troops. Good luck, keep up the good work, and thank you from the bottom of my heart.

V/R,

LTC David M. Schmidt, Chief of Operations (CHOPS)
316th ESC, G3
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 14 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi!

My name is Jp Kelly and on behalf of Charlie Company, 64th BSB, I’d like to thank you for your contributions to our unit’s morale.  I’m the Commander of C/64BSB which is the Brigade Medical Company for 3rd Brigade, 4th ID.  We are originally out of Ft. Carson, Colorado.  Many in my unit are on their 3rd and 4th tours for OIF and/or OEF.

You supported one of my NCO’s, SFC Ronald Dunston, and his unit during his last deployment and he’s already received boxes from you this deployment for us. 

Thanks for all that you do.

Jp

CPT Johnpaul Kelly, MS Commanding
C Co., 64th BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2008
Persian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thanks for sending us the care packages. They are really helpful. Please tell everybody at your branch that I personally would like to thank them! It really brightens up my day to see people take time out of their busy day to send us packages!

DC3 (SW) Tyreas Love
Repair Division/ER 09 Engineers
U.S. Navy

Dated 12 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),





SGT Alexis Diaz
271st HR (Postal)
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 11 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the care package you sent us - everybody loved it. The baby wipes are a Godsend! Thank you again.




R/S,

SSgt. Darien E. McCarthy, Utilities Chief
MWCS-38
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We recently received a care package from Give2TheTroops and I wanted to thank you for such a wonderful care package.  The Marines were surprised to find you had included an X-Box 360 system.  We already have a big screen TV that is used for conferences, needless to say there aren't many conferences around here, so it has turned into a game room. 

We don't have many things to keep occupied with besides work so a little downtime playing games has been great.   The many snacks, movies, and other items you sent are also appreciated.  We often have “movie nights” and it's great to get different movies to view. 

After reading your Give2TheTroops web site, I'm amazed at what you have done and accomplished. 

Mrs. Grant - You are an incredible woman and you have an incredible team assisting you.  I don't know if your husband is still here in Iraq with us or if he made it back yet, but I wish him well and I also wish you well during his deployment.  Please keep up the great work that you’re all doing.  It is most certainly appreciated by the Marines of Logistics Command. 

Thank you again.    

MSgt Joseph E. Brown
LOGCOM FIS
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 7 March, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the five care packages you sent us. They were great! My Soldiers and I greatly appreciate all your support.

Sincerely,

LTC Oran Roberts, Chaplain
HHC 1-106TH IN
U.S. Army

Dated 7 March, 2008
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to start by saying thank you for your support. The care package you sent us was great! The Marines I am serving with enjoyed the books and magazines. Magazines are always passed around and there's always some type of stimulating conversation created by them. The Marines from I MEF G-4 thank all of the volunteers at Give2TheTroops, Inc. We also want to thank those who donate their time and the items sent to us.

It's great to have the support from family and friends; however, the support we receive from individuals such as yourselves (who we don't know) reassures us that whether you know us or not, it's not important - as long as we are in this together.

My name is LCpl Silva and I am a Marine, just like Andi Grant's husband. This is my first deployment and I was told about the support the troops receive from you. I didn't think much about it at first, but the longer we are here and the more support I see, the more I think about it. It's nice to know that just because we're out here, halfway around the world from you, that we haven't been forgotten.

Again, thank you for your support,

LCpl Juan A. Silva
I MEF G-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello, I just wanted to tell you thanks from all the soldiers of HHD 261 MMB for the packages you sent to us in the mail. We really appreciate it and welcome your generosity.

Thank you all for your continued support.

SFC Dwayne Gilroy
HHD 261 MMB
U.S. Army

Dated 5 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Many thanks to you and your team for the outstanding support!  Morale and spirits are definitely boosted.  My Soldiers consumed the snacks and toiletries.  The socks will come in handy too.  I am the Chaplain of the 703rd Brigade Support Battalion.  We are located in Iraq.  We still have many more months to go. 

We appreciate your continued prayers for our Soldiers' safety, protection, health, families, and mission success.  My Chaplain Assistant, SPC Brandie Sims, is on her R&R back in the United States and should return any day. 

I want to say a special thank you to Elizabeth Beck for her note which you enclosed in our box. 

We cannot do what we do over here without knowing we have the support of our home team. 

May the Lord continue to bless you and yours as you send such love and support to our brave men and women in uniform. 

Peace!  
CH (CPT) Shannon K. Philio
HHC Company, 703d BSB
U.S. Army

My name is Sgt. Alejandro Navarro and I would like to start off by saying thank you for your support and all the help your organization sends our way.

I just received you care package and my Marines and myself would like to say thank you for everything that you sent out to us.

Please thank all your members and affiliates that helped in putting the wonderful care package together.

Take care and God Bless.

Sincerely,

Sgt Alejandro Navarro, Tech Controller
RCT-5 Comm Plt
U.S. Marines

Dated 5 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl. Michael Rosales, and I'm a dog handler in the Marines. I recently received some care packages from your organization for our troops and I have to say that I was very impressed! It was a great feeling coming back from a mission and having two huge boxes to open and some support for everyone in my kennels.

Thank y'all very much for everything that was sent. I also noticed you have a branch in Texas. Well, I wanted to let you know that I'm from a small town near San Antonio called Karnes City. The town is nothing but cattle and farming.

Once again, thank you very much - everything was very appreciated!


Cpl Michael Rosales
1/10 HQ BTRY (k9 section)
U.S. Marines

Dated 4 March, 2008
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Please thank all the individuals who contributed to this care package.  We truly enjoyed the cards, treats and goodies in the box.  My soldiers and I are very appreciative for your kind gestures and words of support.   We have included pictures of us with items and cards from the package.  I hope that you are able to receive them.  We will stay in touch as time and our mission allow. 




Great Americans like you make the deployments just that much more bearable.

V/R

SSG James S. Grady
TF 49 S3 CATFISH AIR NCOIC
U.S. Army