Dated 24 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

You and your "Santa's Little Helpers" will never know, no matter how much we tell you, what your selfless efforts mean to me and my platoon. We try not to think about what we have seen or done. Your gifts and letters enable us to step out of that realm once in awhile. That is what keeps us sane and going.

We live for your efforts and our loved ones back home. "Thank you" a million times just doesn't cut it. I wish you could be mice in peep holes here to see the faces on the men....their smiles and delights when they get mail call.

Thank you for making "home" that much closer.

God Bless you all, and thank God we live in the good o'le USA.
 

Semper Fi
LCpl Adam McCormick
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 December, 2004
Persian Gulf (USS Harry Truman)

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I just had to write you again! We just received another box from you full of Tetris electronic games! You have no idea how the eyes of my guys lit up when they saw those games!

Thank you guys so much! You guys have pretty much brought me to tears. I have never had such generosity ever in my life. The guys have already promised to support what you are doing when we get back to ensure that someone else will enjoy the same blessings that you have blessed us with.

Here is a picture of us reading the wonderful cards that the kids had written to us. You can also see the stockings in the background that you sent us. We love you all, thanks for everything.

Love your friends at the VF-32,

AT1 (AW/SW) John L. Boyd
VF-32 IWT LPO J-4936
U.S. Navy

Dated 23 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

This is SPC Buddy Copeland from Iraq. First, I wanted to tell you I am ok. The bomb that exploded the other day was close to here, but I was nowhere near it when it exploded.

I received your many care packages today. They are all so nice. We don't know what to say. You sent us so much! My platoon is very happy! Right now we are playing the mini Jenga game you sent us in one of the boxes.

Thank you for giving us a new XBOX system! It is so awesome! The XBOX is so cool because it is a good thing to do when we are bored. I put it in the day room where any soldier can enjoy it by signing it out from the chaplain. After we leave, it will then be given to the next unit's Chaplain for further use. Thank you for the awesome pastime! We love the games and all you people at GIVE2THETROOPS for being there for us!

We are also watching the movies you sent us over and over. Thanks again for those. I can't complain because I am alive.

Please thank your entire group for me!

Peace and Love,
SPC Randal "Buddy" Copeland
U.S. Army

Dated 22 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

THANK YOU!!! I feel overwhelmed with all of the packages that you sent. We have enough to give to the IRAQI NATIONAL GUARD TROOPS! They look like kids on Christmas, when I stop at their checkpoints and give them some gifts from your care packages.

I would like to say to you, Andi, that I give my love back to you, for what you and your organization is doing to support the troops around the world. I work at SSI with Sandy Panza (your Secretary) and she is a wonderful woman.

From the J-4 troops supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom we say, "Thanks!"
Andi, May God bless you even more every day.

Here is a photo of my family and I. We are expecting a baby girl in March!



Love,
SFC Wilmer Quarles
CMATT, J-4
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 22 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

My name is Alan Sullivan. I received a package from you a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to write sooner, but have been on the road quite a bit convoying. Your package was very useful for me and my battle buddies and put a smile on all our faces.

The letters from all the kids are great and are hanging on the walls for Christmas. The Christmas tree decorations that were sent with the pictures of the 2 dogs and the young boy named "Chaz" from Bethel, Connecticut are hanging on a tree in our dining facility for all to see. It is really warming to see that you care so much, especially over the holidays.

Your support is truly appreciated and I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Enjoy your holidays and take care.
 

Sincerely,
SPC Alan Sullivan
HSC 118th MED
US Army.

Dated 22 December, 2004
Persian Gulf (USS Harry Truman)

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I can't begin to tell you just how much you have blessed us. We received not 5, but 7 wonderful packages from you guys. My heart has been truly touched with love and compassion. If there was some way we could repay you guys for what you have done, we would. We love you guys so much for what you are doing and the entire shop has the great big grin on their faces because someone cares about them. A lot of them are young and don't always understand their liberties, but after being here for a while and actually understanding what their purpose is, things have changed for the better, and you guys have topped it off with so much love.

It is one of the greatest feelings we experience, and that is getting a package from someone who loves us. Words can not express how we are feeling, thank you personally with all of my heart, and as the Supervisor, you have made my job just that much easier when my guys are secured in knowing that there are people out there who really do care. My love and hats off to you for blessing us. Please give my love to your family and the people who are involved with you.

Thanks in so many ways,
AT1(AW/SW) JOHN L. BOYD
VF-32 IWT LPO J-4936
U.S. Navy

Dated 19 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I can't thank you enough for your support and contribution to all of us here. My name is John Zaal and I'm the platoon commander for Sgt. Love in 3/1.

The time, effort, and gifts you give could not be more of a booster for me and my men here in Iraq. People like you back home is what drives us here when times are down. Please tell all who are involved that they make more of a difference than they'll ever know.

Take care and God bless.
 

2LT John Zaal
3rd BN, 1st Marines
India Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I am SGT LaMeika Mack, writing to you from Iraq. I wanted to thank you for the wonderful gift that you sent to me and our troops. It was great. I am glad to see that you have your own program setup to help out the troops. All you wonderful guys are making our Holiday more enjoyable.

We appreciate all the support that you are giving. I know that your program is probably a volunteer organization. I want you all to know that we are proud of you all for taking your spare time and putting it to good use.

On behalf of myself and the soldiers in my platoon thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

SGT LaMeika Mack
6/545th MP CO
US Army

Chaplain's Office

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops,

    Thank you very much for your compassion and care shown to our fighting men and women here in Iraq by your gifts of love and kindness. The gifts you have sent not only meet the soldiers' personal needs, but also encourage them and give them the assurance that America is proud of them. Such loving encouragement gives the soldier strength for today and hope for tomorrow.

    Be assured that America is doing a good work here in Iraq. The sacrifice our soldiers are making for peace and freedom is making great progress toward keeping the United States free from the terrors of radical Islamic extremists and lifting the evil oppression the Iraqi people have been subject to for decades. The work is hard and dangerous but our soldiers overcome these challenges daily. America's success here in Iraq will surely be a victory for world peace.

    Please know that your gift has made a great contribution to the efforts here. Our soldiers appreciate getting the practical items they need and greatly enjoy the candy and snacks that remind them of home. May God bless you for spending your time, money and efforts to do something so thoughtful and kind for America's finest men and women in uniform.

    Blessings,

Dated 13 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We opened your many care packages today and I really need to say thanks.thanks a lot! I wish you could have been here to see first hand how much good you've done. You see, as a platoon, we are not always a cohesive unit with all the people we have lost and all the missions we have had to do. Many of us are indoors a lot. It wears on the nerves of every soldier here.

Today I saw that the gifts you sent, from your group of people back home, turned upset and jaded troops into little kids again. Everyone was laughing and joking and smiling. Thanks a lot! Four of the guys here are having a bass tournament with your electronic fish games you sent. It seems like everyone else is locked in their rooms snacking or playing with an electronic game from you.

he little Iraqi girls and boys I see every day will love the shampoo and hair brushes you sent. Some of them already have favorite brands (figures...little women!) of those favorite brands you sent a few weeks ago. So thanks again.

The guys here have asked if they can make requests from you lists of supplies. I told them you would send them what they asked for.

Thanks you again from all of us!

PFC Clay M. Hull
HHC 81st
U.S. Army

Dated 12 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops:

I received the box today and truly appreciate it. I passed out the candy and other items that people could use. As per your letter, part of my job as a chaplain assistant is escorting the chaplain around and we have adopted a school and a children's orphanage that we visit.

We collect toys and other items to take to the orphanage as they do not have much. We also take some toys to the children's nursery school and the kindergarten class so any donations of toys would be great. All of us over here appreciate all the hard work and effort that these organizations do to send supplies and other goodies to the troops.

Thank you,

SSgt. Jennifer Motlagh
JASG-C/CHAPEL OFFICE
U.S. Air Force

Dated 8 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I received the package you sent on Monday. Thank you very much. I wasn't expecting such a big package! If you could please let all of your supporters and sponsors know how appreciative I am of their help and support, I’d be grateful. I shared the package with my fellow soldiers and they all send their thanks as well.

You don't know how refreshing it is to have a taste of home while being so far away.

Thanks Again,

SPC Yusef Ghamarian
353 Civil Affairs Bde.
U.S. Army

Dated 8 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I received your care package, thanks very much. I shared it with the other guys on my team. When one of us gets a package we all get a package. It’s funny the little things, we need or miss. I was very surprised that it was such a heavy box full of stuff. It was like an early Christmas for us!

The gym is probably the most important factor at keeping me mentally fit for missions, but the food here really isn't enough to help you grow muscle so the protein items and tuna you sent are greatly appreciated. We really liked the letters from the kids. They make us feel so much better for being here.

Again, thanks a lot and Happy Holidays to you.

SPC David Gonzales
426th CA BN, (SO) OIF II
U.S. Army

Dated 7 December, 2004
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you so much for all the work that you and your organization do for everyone. I was especially glad to receive your recent care package. Thanks to everyone in your organization - I know that you have a lot of help doing all this. I really appreciate all of the warm thoughts in your letter. Also, I am happy that your husband is safely home with you. I am sure that he is very proud of you and what you do, as well as I know that you are proud of him. Enjoy the time you have together like it is your very last day seeing each other.

A little bit more about myself... On December 22nd I will have been married for 10 months! My wife and I were married on in beautiful Hawaii. She is from Tychy, Poland, and I am from Columbus, Georgia. She is 24 and I am 28 years old.

I have attached a picture of us just to share with you.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sincerely,
SPC Joseph Stewart
U.S. Army

Dated 4 December, 2004
Persian Gulf – USS Harry S. Truman Naval Ship

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We just received 2 more packages from you that you sent us. It was awesome because we were just talking this morning about not having anything to decorate our shop with for Christmas!!

You have once again made us all smile and laugh more today than any other day here on the ship.

Ericka DePalma and the VF-32 AE shop
Fighter Squadron 3
US Navy

Dated 4 December, 2004
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thanks for the BIG surprise. We weren't expecting such great stuff. That Poppycock stuff you sent is great.

Life here isn't to bad now that's it's not 150 degrees anymore. Right now, it's kind of boring but that can change at any time. We have a PX about 1 mile away and are now in 8 man tents that have A/C.

I/We are looking forward to the next care package from you.

Thanks again,
Major Rick Wasserman
1174th TTBn
U.S. Army

Dated 3 December, 2004
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Here we are holding the XBOX system you sent us. Thank you sooo much! We love it and are already playing. You guys are great you really are we love you!!! We are so thankful for all the support you are giving us here in Afghanistan.

We are having a lot of fun with it and can't thank you enough for taking your valuable time to take care of us.

From Left to Right: SSG William Jackson is to the far left, SFC John Lewis (me) is in the middle and Captain Ontko is to my right.

Also, SPC Joe Stewart received the care package you sent him and he loved it. He said thank you...he was really excited. God bless you all for supporting the troops as we continue to fight the War on terror.

SFC JohnCarlo Lewis and the
HHC AVN BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 2 December, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you so much for dedicating your time for people like us!

This is my first deployment in my 15 years and I never knew there were people as generous and loving as you and your team. All of you help make our deployment memorable.

It's nice to know that we are not forgotten; that people are thinking and praying for us and our return.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Capt. Nora Merritt
332 AEW/EMDG
U.S. Air Force

Dated 1 December, 2004
Germany

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Our patients got your package – thank you.
Here is a picture of the troops in our USO passing it around.

We are at Ramstein AFB in Germany (about 10 miles from Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC)). We don't have a hospital where I'm at. Our capabilities are very limited and we serve as surge overflow for LRMC in the event of mass casualty intake. We are kind of an extension of the Ramstein "clinic" as we are part of the Medical Group here.

The patients we house rarely have severe injuries and most of the time can walk and talk with no problem. Occasionally we have folks on crutches or confined to a
stretcher. The bulk of what we do involves moving the patients from the plane to the hospital and from the hospital to the plane for their trip back to the states. The flight line is not far away. If it wasn't for 10pm - 6am quiet hours, I wouldn't be able to sleep.

Most of our patients wear civilian clothes as they are waiting to transit back to the states. The few people in uniform would be us wearing green BDUs....the only guy wearing desert camo was asleep when I took the pictures. Most of the time after the troops get off the plane; they go straight to the hospital and change into civilian clothes as they are going back to Andrews AFB in D.C.

Thanks again for the support!!

V/R



Capt. Mark D. Reynolds, USAF, MSC
435th CASF/SGA
U.S. Air Force

Dated 26 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We just received the first two packages on Thanksgiving Day nonetheless. It was a brightening of an otherwise "normal" day where we worked, ran patrols. etc etc.

How can we thank you all for this kind and wonderful gesture?

It is an honor and pleasure to serve great people like you back home.  Because of the love and support of the American people, it is worth it to be away. Thank you again!

Keep Smiling and God Bless you ALL!!!

Larry

SSG Lawrence Provost
B Co. 403rd Civil Affairs BN

Dated 24 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you so very much for the package you sent to me. It was a wonderful surprise to have a care package awaiting me upon my return. I just got back from down range. I was forward deployed for a brief time to assist with the mass causalities going on in Fallujah. I saw some things there that will haunt me for the rest of my life. It instills the proud American I am especially when I see my fellow Sailor/Solider/Airman lay down a sacrifice so costly for the freedom of the Iraqi people. I’m unhappy that some sacrifices came from our team, but to experience such bravery, most people will go through life just dreaming of Heroes…………I have several now!

The package was fantastic. I shared most of the snacks with my fellow Airmen. If I were to eat them all, I’d be fat. The Executive Staff really liked the 2005 pocket planners. Thank you again for all your and your team’s efforts.

The packages really help with our moral. My personal favorite thing in the care package was the letters from the school kids. They were so very amusing. Reading what children see or think at times is funny. They were really open and personal with their feelings and that meant a lot to us all.

Please keep doing what you are doing. Your support is priceless.

Attached is a photo taken of me during a beautiful Iraqi Sun Set.

Anton L. Mak, TSgt, USAF
NCOIC Medical Logistics

Dated 18 November, 2004
Iraq

Hello Andi Grant,

I would like to thank you and your organization, Give2TheTroops, for the many care packages that you all sent. My unit enjoyed the items and are most thankful to your organization.

I am in the 125th Transportation Company based out of Lexington, KY. Most of the soldiers in this unit were transferred here. Brandon Read and I were both originally from units in Tennessee. Brandon and I were battle buddies and roommates. He was KIA and is greatly missed over here as well as back in the States.

We are in Mosul and this town seems to be in the news quite a bit lately. We are a fuel unit but the locals haul all the fuel so we have done every kind of mission possible it seems.

This is my second deployment in the last two years. I was married 23 days prior to my first deployment, so I have only lived with my wife for nine months in the past 2 years.

Again, thank you and everyone who donated to us.

Sincerely
Sgt. Rex Crabtree
125th Transportation Unit
US ARMY

Dated 17 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I received your box, today. Thank you very much! We just returned from Fallujah today and it was awesome to come back to a care package.

I would like to thank all the children and teachers from all the schools who sent us those great cards and letters. I was five years old when Desert Storm occurred and I can remember writing letters to the soldiers that fought back then. I never thought that 14 years later I would be receiving letters from kids back in the States.

Once again, thank you.

Sincerely,
PFC Gerard Lyons
HHC 1-1 AVN 1 ID
US Army

Dated 16 November, 2004
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you for the box. We really enjoyed it, and really liked the letters. I am going TDY (temporary duty) back to Iraq for a short time, but any other boxes you send would be greatly appreciated.

The hand-held games you want to send us sound great. We will be very happy to receive them.

Here is a picture of me with your box.

Again, Thanks for all you do.



Sincerely,
TSgt Eric E. Hauf
354th Medlog
U.S. Air Force

Dated 16 November, 2004
Iraq

Hi Andi,

I would like to thank you and everyone involved with Give2TheTroops deeply for the great support that you are giving to the troops. There is nothing like seeing a bunch of Marines waiting to get there mail or someone else open a care package to see what is in it. I know that you all have put a lot of time and heart into this organization and I hope that you do know how big of an impact that it has on those of us who are lucky enough to receive the care packages.

The care package you sent with the black socks, peanut butter, Crystal Light and other items made it in today - thank you! What you do is awesome. I can't believe how much work must be in it. I can't believe you work full time too. I have more energy than anyone I know and I don't think I could do what you do.

Luckily for myself I have found out that I am returning next month, however there are still going to be a lot of my Marines that I have worked with for the last 5 months here and I have given them your flyers and website.

I attached a picture of my family from before I left. I attached that picture because that is why I am out here. I love my family and my country greatly. Thanks again for your support and all that you do it for us out here in Iraq. It is greatly appreciated.

Take care and Semper Fi,



SSgt Sam Thompson
MALS-16
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 14 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We’d like to thank you again for the care packages sent to the Marines here. The PX (store) has been closed for a while now. Many times we lack the manpower for one of us to get food, toiletries and other provisions. So you helped us out a lot!

Thanks for everything and know we love you.



God Bless,
LCPL Jonathan Munoz, USMC

Thank you Andi M. Grant and Give2theTroops!
PFC Matthew Sulik, USMC

Please accept our thanks for the time and effort that was put forth into such wonderful care packages. Our Post Office has enjoyed the many wonderful items which were given to us.
God Bless You.
SSgt Christelle M. Temple, USMC

Thank you for all your love and support!
Sgt Whatley, USMC

Thank you for all your support.
CPL Ramos (from New Jersey), USMC

Thank you very much for the time and effort that went into preparing the care packages.
PFC Barrientos, USMC

God Bless you very much for your thoughts and efforts that go towards helping all of the military personnel out here in Iraq!
CPL Ford, USMC

Dated 9 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you very much for the care package you sent to our unit. All the items had good use to the troops. We have no running water or a PX so these items were greatly appreciated.

Thank You again for the gifts and support.

Sincerely,
CPL Eric Valdez
301st MP CO
US ARMY

Dated 5 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you very much for my care package. There was something for everyone in the box.

Please pass on to everyone who contributes that we really appreciate it and do make use of everything that we receive.

Our living conditions are decent. We live in trailers and have access to a PX. The weather has been rainy and much cooler during the past week, so the International Coffee and the Cider mix were first to go.

Again, Thank you.

SFC Cynthia Green
US ARMY 

Dated 3 November, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I received your package and I appreciate it very much.

It is always uplifting to get a package in the mail, and yours put a smile on my face. Thank you very much. I used most of the items, but what I did not is being put to use by other soldiers in my platoon.

Thanks Again,
Craig

1LT Craig Klascius
58th EN, 2 BDE, 10th MTN DIV
US ARMY 

Dated 29 October, 2004
Persian Gulf – USS Harry S. Truman Naval Ship

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We received our box today! It was great... just like Christmas for us!

We loved the cards from the kids, the popcorn, and especially the GUM!!

We all think it’s awesome what you do for us out here and it’s very much appreciated.

Thanks ever so much again.

Very Respectfully,

Ericka DePalma and the VF-32 AE shop
Fighter Squadron 3
US Navy
USS Harry S. Truman

Dated 24 October, 2004
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you for the package!

I shared it with the rest of the other platoons here.

Everyone enjoys mail here and it gives them something to look forward to every day.

Thank you again!

SSG Marlena Mullens
221 Ordnance Company
US Army Reserves 

Dated 16 October, 2004
Iraq

Hello Give2TheTroops,

I want to thank you so much for what you do. Everyone thanks you for the items you sent. Everything helped out very much. This place is getting old really fast.

With still no word on when we are going to come home every package you send helps. I am doing all right but everyone would like to get back home soon. Our MEU got split up (the first time this has ever happened) and nobody can figure out when we are leaving.

I have visited your web site and read about GIVE2THETROOPS and how things were started and how they are going. We know that you have a lot of people out there sending things to us over here and everyone appreciates it very much.

It is nice to see how everyone comes around and their spirits are raised because of the things that you do for us over here. Keep up the great work. Again everything was very much appreciated.

Thank you from all of us out here with MALS-16.



LCPL Shawn Love
MALS-16
U.S. Marines

Dated 12 October, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I just wanted to thank you guys for all of your support. The thought alone means a lot. I do postal over here and came across a couple of boxes originating from your organization. Morale is extremely important out here as you already are aware of. Mail is one of the biggest morale boosters out here so I understand your endeavors.

It is tragic that we lose brave men and woman on this ongoing war for freedom. The blood that is shed for the cost of freedom will never escape our hearts. War has always existed, but the genuine, loving support that you provide is unique in everyway. You made it your own mission, and you're carrying it out honorably. What compels you to continue your efforts in supporting your brothers and sisters (the troops) worldwide is priceless. It's love that's hard to find and come by. There are many who feel it, but few who act upon it.

I echo the gratitude of the many who greatly appreciate your kindness and the kindness of your organization. We are thankful to have people like you who give us a strong helping hand through mediums that fail to inconvenience you; to make OUR lives more convenient. This helps us accomplish OUR mission. We can't do it without you.

So thank you Andi, and Give2TheTroops for caring and God bless.

LCPL Jonathan Munoz
United States Marine Corps

Dated 28 September, 2004
Camp Eagle Bahgdad, Iraq

Hello,

My name is Spc Carroll. I am writing to you so that I can thank you for the package I received today. It makes me feel good knowing that people from my home town of Fairfield are supporting all of us over here.

I've lived in Fairfield, Connecticut my entire life until I joined the army 2 years ago. 

To let you know a little about me, I am in the Infantry assigned to the 1st Cav Division out of Ft. Hood TX. We have been over here for about 7 months now and have around 6 more to go. We lost two members of my platoon on Sept. 13 to an improvised explosive device that was placed in our patrol area. There has been a lot of intense fighting going on around here and it just brings our spirits up when we get packages from back home ... especially ones that you weren't expecting.

I would also like to ask you if you can thank the schools who sent notes along in your package. Once I pulled them out all of the guys wanted to read and see what the kids had done. For me it was even more meaningful because it was from my home town.

So once again...Thank you for you support and continue the good work. Thanks a lot again!

SPC Robert (Bobby) Carroll
HHC 1-12 Cav 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 25 September, 2004
Afghanistan

Hello Andi,

I got the box yesterday from Give2theTroops. Thank you very much! I really enjoyed reading the letters from the kids. I plan on posting them on the bulletin board, so that everyone can see them. I always take the boxes that are sent and put them in the mail room so the other  soldiers can go through them and get stuff out of them as needed. We really appreciate your kindness and thank you for such a great organization. Thank you for the great CD (Picture of You) - great song.

As you know, we live in Bhuts that house between 5-10 soldiers. They have air, cable and some people have microwaves. My section doesn't have one, so we go to the office next door, but that's ok. At least we have one we can use. The PX isn't bad, but I just wish they could keep the shelves stocked. The day after a shipment, the shelves are just about empty.

Mail is a big thing around here. Some of my soldiers have only gotten 1 letter in a month - that's sad.

I am really glad I contacted you. I was shown an article from Fairfield Minuteman with an article about Give2TheTroops. I am from New Hampshire and was glad to see that a New England state had started this wonderful program.

I will be writing a letter to send to you today. Thanks again!

SFC Jodean Rappatta
JLC CSSAMO
U.S. Army

Dated 2 September, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Me and the rest of the guys in Alpha Company 1/8 Weapons Platoon wanted to say thanks for sending us that care package. It’s nice to know that we still have the support of people back home.

Please thank them for us and let them know that their gifts mean a lot to us.

Thanks,

CPL Dylan Rokos
and the rest of
A Co. 1/8 Weapons Platoon
U.S. Marines

Dated 28 August, 2004
Afghanistan

Dear Members of Give2TheTroops,

I received your packages this week and I wanted to take a minute to thank you for your contributions. I signed up mainly to ask for toys and school supplies for both the kids and for our soldiers. It’s amazing to see the joy on the kids’ faces when we give them a little something. It’s sad how they don’t have the simple things in life that we take for granted everyday, like clean water. Even little things like pens and crayons or little toys can make their day like you wouldn’t believe.

I joined the Army when I was 17, which was 18 years ago now. I am a CID (Criminal Investigation Division) Special Agent in the Army, and I travel all over the country. I spent some time in Iraq and Pakistan recently. The days are pretty long here. The sun is up by 5:30 am and goes down about 8:00 pm. It can get up to 120 degrees in some areas we go into. It makes it even worse when you have about 40 pounds of stuff on your back and armor plates on your body.

As a token of my appreciation for your packages, I am enclosing an un-circulated bill from the time when the Taliban ruled here.



Thank you again for your packages.
Take Care,

CW2 Donald Bauman
CJTF-76, Command Group
U.S. Army

Dated 31 August, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

would like to thank you on behalf of my platoon. We are an artillery unit attached to an “MP” unit here in Iraq. The care package I received from you was distributed among my 34 platoon members. The Mentos candy and AA batteries were the first to go! Our current mission requires the use of “walkie-talkie” handheld radios. Of course we’ve had to purchase them ourselves and the batteries as well. Pulling 12-hour shifts, you can only imagine the amount of AA batteries we purchase.

It’s a little joke we have here that Energizer should send the bunny to Iraq! Thank you for the generosity you and the Give2theTroops organization are showing towards the troops over here. All too often we see a lack of support due to some of the actors. It is organizations like yours, along with the love and support we receive from our families, that keep us strong.

So thank you for all your support and dedication.

WE SALUTE YOU!

Thank you,

SGT Brett J. Fry
B Co, 1/107th FA
U.S. Army

Dated 5 September, 2004
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I received your package last week and I wanted to take the time to write and say thank you for all that you are doing for me. I really enjoyed the contents of the package and I shared some of it with fellow soldiers. Thanks also to the rest of your team and your sponsors for their help with your organization, Give2theTroops.

You all are great Americans and should be applauded for your commitment to serving the troops overseas. Thanks again for the box, it made my day!

P.S. Thanks again.

Sincerely,

SGT Michael Jaeger
HHB, 2-146 FA
U.S. Army

August 18, 2004
Iraq


Click Here to View Video

Major Mark Lamelza
3rd Battalion, 24th Marines
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 15 July, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Let me begin this letter by telling you how grateful we are for what you have done for us and for what you are doing for so many others just like us. We would like to thank all those who made the wonderful cards for us, too. We have a wall in our tent dedicated to things just as those you sent. Please know that your efforts are being noticed every day.

On a different note, you mentioned that many items were donated by families affected by the tragedies of September 11th. Last year, we deployed as a part of the 24th MEU (SOC capable). Before leaving the States, Mayor Giuliani gave us the flag from Ground Zero to take with us on our voyage. 10 months and 11 countries later, we returned to New York on Memorial Day. The flag was returned and I believe it still flies somewhere near Ground Zero.

We are 2/2 Golf Co. based out of Camp LeJeune, NC. We are an infantry battalion and have seen quite a lot of action out here. So when we receive wonderful care packages and letters from people like your group and yourself, it is so appreciated. Thank you again for all you are doing.

LCPL Keith Ramsey
and the Marines of
2/2 Gulf Co. 3rd Platoon

Dated 1 July, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Because of Americans like you, being deployed to these far off places is a lot more bearable. It is comforting to know that our efforts are appreciated and not taken for granted. I want you to know that your correspondence was well received and brought a genuine and appreciative smile to my face. It goes without saying how much I enjoy the mail I receive from you.

I am very blessed to be in my current situation here in Iraq. Things could be a lot worse. I have hot and cold water to bathe with, electricity in my dwelling and AIR CONDITIONING where I sleep.

During the course of the day, the heat becomes a bit overwhelming. These days it has been averaging around 112 degrees.

The package you sent was very much appreciated by my troops. The soldiers in my section are in good spirit, and have challenges that have come their way. My company holds the distinct privilege of being the first unit of the 1st Infantry Division to cross into Iraq during Operation Iraq Freedom. I'm sure that when we leave this country, this experience will leave a mark on all of our hearts and minds.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness and consideration.

SFC Frank E. Bebbs, Jr.
C. Co, 121st Signal Company
FOB Danger
U.S. Army

Dated 25 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thanks so much for the care package you sent! I really appreciate it, and what you are doing for the troops out here. I believe our conditions here have improved over the past few months. We should be coming home in September. I can't wait. I am 22 years old and a native of Pennsylvania. I am in the Reserves and am a college student at Villanova in my "civilian life," which I am anxious to get back to.

I just wanted to thank you and I hope you and your families are doing well. The little things people do at home really do make our lives a little easier out here. Thanks again!

CPL Chris Samuelson
420 EN BGD, 6th ESB
U.S. Marines  

Dated 23 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you for everything you sent in the HUGE care package.

I'm 25 years old and have been in the military for 3½ years no, I'm married and my husband and I are anxious to start our family. I brought about 6 months worth of hygiene items out here so my husband wouldn't have to send all of it and can instead send pictures and other stuff to me, especially Berry Berry Kix cereal. Last night, I brought the box you sent to the orderly room so if anyone needed or wanted anything, it's there for them. My roommate works up there and I guess today everything is gone already so thank you, you are wonderful people for all the help you give to the troops.

I'm stationed in Baghdad and from what I hear we have it better than most. We live in trailers, but it gets hot when the electricity goes out all day. I was wondering if you could find a company to send us some hygiene items to make us feel like women, because we don't. I know the females here would really appreciate it.

As for water, we get bottles of water at the chow hall and we have potable water to drink where I live. We don't have the roughest out here, but it's not America and anything to make us feel closer to home helps, so thank you again.

Love,

SPC Christine Millard
HHC 13 th Signal BN
U.S. Army

Dated 20 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops,

What an awesome care package...thank you from all the guys. As I'm sure you've heard from countless other troops, getting a care package, especially from an unmet friend, means the world to soldiers down here. The snacks and cookies go like wildfire, as do the magazines. The toiletries go out as folks need them; it never takes long. And it is so comforting to know that when you run out of something, there's a replacement for it already, instead of having to hope the PX will be here today, and that they'll have what you need in stock.

We are glad Brian made it back safely.

We should be heading home in the winter. I spent Feb - Aug 03 here, and now am back from Feb 04 - Jan 05. Long time to be away from your family!

My job over here is running a training academy for the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps. We take in several hundred Iraqi soldiers every few weeks and give them military training, sprinkled generously with lessons on how an Army serves in a Democracy, and a few lessons on treating people with dignity and respect, and then send them back to their units. It is a very professional school and is doing a lot to legitimize the force, and instill confidence in the people that the force is capable of securing the infrastructure. It's a great thing to be a part of.

Well...Thanks again for the awesome package.

Make it a Great Day!

MAJ Scot Bemis
Headquarters
1st Infantry Division
U.S. Army

Dated 28 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I wanted to email you to let you know I recieved the care package. We shared the box between the 20 of us. I am stationed in Tirkit, Iraq at an Iraqi Training Academy. We are teaching the Iraqis to defend themselves and their country. It works but we can only train a small number every month. But, it is a start. Anyway, we got here in January 03 and are projected to leave in February 04. A lot of my friends are in 1st Armored Division and were extended six months (a total of eighteen months.) I hope they can leave in July.

I have two kids myself, two little girls. Ages 5 ½ and 1 ½.

Thanks again for the package,
Sgt Billy Monks
U.S. Army

Dated 21 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Today I received 4 packages from you filled with Ramen Noodles, beef jerky, Slim Jims, candy and other great snacks, etc. I have to be on radar shift in a little bit, but I wanted to come up here and let you know that we got them. I opened them up and took a look inside, and I really don’t know what to say...

They’re excellent! I can’t express enough how appreciative we are for receiving those! You made our day! I have to get going to my shift now though, but I just wanted to say thank you sooooo very much from all of us!

SPC Justin Hollis
25th Infantry Division (L)
25th Field Artillery Detachment (2-11)
U.S. Army
 

Dated 20 June, 2004
Iraq

Hello Give2TheTroops,!

First I would like to thank you for what you are doing. I cannot start to say how you make a difference in a service member's life. Your thoughtful letters and support are what keep the troops to stay motivated.

I am Columbus Wheeler, 31 years old. I am from a small town in South Alabama called Florala. I was born and raised there until I went to college. I graduated from Troy State University (Troy, AL) in 1995. I joined the Army in 1996. I am married with 2 children (Chelsea-13 and Zariah-6).

My wife is a college student taking up Cosmetology. Thank God she is almost finished. I am in the 1st Cavalry Division, which is based out of Fort Hood, TX. I work in the legal field in the Army. We do prosecution, legal assistance, defense, claims, litigation, contracts, operational law, and other areas of law. You name it, the Judge Advocate General's Corps does it.

I enjoyed reading your letter.  I am holding out pretty well. I work the night shift so I get a chance to call home quite often. I am gracious of the package you sent to me and at this time I don't need anything. If I do need something, I won't hesitate to e-mail you. Please tell your organization that I want to personally thank them for helping the troops out.

Take Care and God Bless!


 

Sincerely,

SSG Columbus C. Wheeler
NCOIC, Ops Law
FIRST TEAM LEGAL

Dated 8 June, 2004
Iraq

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops members,

I received your package on June 2nd and it came as a great surprise! THANK YOU, your son, your husband and all the others who help you do what you do. Just like your husband, I am a Marine Reservist and my unit is from Folsom, PA (just south of Philadelphia).

This is our second tour in Iraq, and I have to say, it is much more bearable than last year. Living conditions are good compared to last year so there isn't much to complain about.
On top of that, we get packages from people like yourself, who know how difficult it is to be, or to have your loved one be away.

THANK YOU SINCERELY!

SEMPER FI!  

Cpl. Matt Erszkowicz
420 EN BGD.
U.S. Marine Corps
                                      top^

Dated 6 June, 2004
Iraq

Mrs. Grant (and friends),

Thank you for sending us a care package. My Marines are very thankful. I am with MTACS-38 out of MCAS Miramar in San Diego.

I really want to thank you for all of your time and hard work that you have put into helping the Armed Services in OIF. It is military dependents like yourself that make it easier for us to concentrate on accomplishing our mission while we are away from home.

We have had a lot of support from around the United States and it makes our morale high. Morale is a crucial part of getting through deployment and care packages really help.

You, as a military dependent, are the life support for all of the Marines across the globe and I really do admire the work you have done.

Please tell all the generous, patriotic people in your community that we also would like to thank them for eveything they do for the Armed Services.

Thank you again for all your hard work.

Semper Fi,

GySgt Jeffrey S. Miller
MTACS-38
Operation Chief
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 May, 2004
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you so much for the care package! I took what I wanted/needed, gave the other airmen, NCO's and officers a chance to choose, and then donated the rest of the items (especially all those books you sent) to the ambulatory and litter patient wards. Our facility here is the central hub for aero-medical evacuation of patients in and out of theater and all those books will be put to good use by us and our patients.
Please thank all those great children for their Easter cards over the past few months. ...children are so amazing with such tender and caring hearts!!! I'd like you and the others to know that we are doing well here in Kuwait. Even though our living conditions aren't the greatest, we definitely realize we are blessed because we know it could be much, much worse.

You truly are a very special woman, Andi! The professionalism, kindness, caring and love you exude are truly amazing! THANKS!!

We will be leaving Kuwait in the next few weeks. If you get any more packages that need a home, please send them to the same address, but address them to SMSgt Scott Nielson.

Once again, I would like to thank you and everyone else that dedicated the hard work and energy that it takes to put such packages of kindness and generosity. We really appreciate the hard work and dedication that you and the others have demonstrated , because it reminds us that we are cared for and supported by so many people in the USA. Please know that you, your family and all the personnel that have assisted with our morale and well being will be in our prayers.
Take care and much love!

Sincerely,

1st Lt Robert E. Estep III, MSC
Director, Operations/Administration
407th Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility
U.S. Air Force
 

Dated 15 May, 2004
Iraq

Dear Sgt. Grant and Andi,

We are still in Fallujah. Things here are crazy. I got my Combat Action Ribbon & the Presidential Unit Citation for the assault on Fallujah.

I received your packages and I thank you so much for them! It was so generous and exactly what we needed. I hardly get things out here. It's good to know people remember me, thank you again.

Thank you for the boxes, cards and kind words. It was perfect!

Semper Fi,

LCpl. Jason Gxxxxx (surname intentionally withheld)
2/2 Echo Company
U.S. Marines

Dated 31 May, 2003
Iraq

Dear Give2theTroops,

Thank you so much for the care package! I took what I wanted/needed and gave the rest to my company to enjoy. Please know that you and your family will be in our prayers for your husband's safe return.

We are living on an old Iraqi airfield. We are able to shower every day now and we use an old Iraqi fuel tank for airplanes to hold our water. If we fill it up every day we have grouty showers. No running water, but we have electricity from our generators. Food is still in rations so we appreciate goodies from home. I am looking forward to getting home to my wife and family.

Please thank all those great children for their cards.

I as well as B Company, 5th Bn. 101st are very appreciative.

Again, many thanks and may God Bless you always.

CW2 Jimmy McElhaney
5th Bn. 101st
U.S. Army         

Dated 26 April, 2003
Persian Gulf

Dear Mrs. Grant,

Knowing that folks back at home remember and support us through their thoughts and expressions of kindness can provide a tremendous boost of ship morale.

As a token of our thanks to you, please accept the enclosed photo as a visual reminder that you have many appreciative friends on the Powerful Pachyderm of the Pacific.

Sincerely,

A.S. Mobley
Captain, U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
USS Camden

Dated 22 May, 2003
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thanks so much for the snacks, reading material, and other good stuff you sent to my unit! We really appreciate being remembered while we are here in Camp Arifjan.

We mobilized 3 Nov 02 and arrived in Kuwait on 12 Nov. We've worked at the Port of Ash Shuaybah and discharged 105 ships in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
We appreciate your remembering us during these many months overseas.

Colonel Janet Cobb
Commander
1184th Transportation Terminal Battalion        

Dated 19 April 2003
Camp Spearhead, Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

On behalf of me and my soldiers, I'd like to thank you for the care packages that you all took the time to prepare for us. We really appreciate the hard work and dedication that you have demonstrated for we are reminded that we are cared for and supported by so many people.

I'd like you to know that we are doing well here in Kuwait in spite of our living conditions. We are blessed because we realize it could be much worse. I thank God for the safe return of your husband and all other soldiers that have made it home.

Once again, Mrs. Grant, I would like to thank you and everyone else that dedicated the hard work and energy that it takes to make such acts of kindness and consideration take place in the lives of so many. May God bless each and every one of you.

Respectfully,
1LT L. D. James
509th Transportation Department                  top^
U.S. Army

Dated 1 May 2003
Kuwait

Dear Andi (and Give2theTroops),

My name is Specialist Sanchez and I'm writing on behalf of the 1188th Cargo Documentation Team.

We received 2 boxes from you and distributed the goodies amongst our guys. Each and every one of them extends their gratitude and thanks for taking the time and effort to putting together those packages. People like you make us feel very important and appreciated.

Andi, we hope everything is okay with your husband and son. I bet your husband makes you feel proud of his service and deication to our country. He will be home soon.

Once again, we would like to thank you so much for the packages and God Bless you.

SPC Sanchez
& the 1188th CD
U. S. Army

Dated 13 May, 2003
Iraq

Dear Andi (and Give2theTroops),

We received a box from you and passed out all the items until everything ran out. Some have written back to the children.

We have received so many packages from you and your organization ... the cards are wonderful. I hung them up where we are staying so all can see. We can't wait to get home to our families.

Thank you so much for your support - it is very much appreciated by all in my company.

Thanks,
CW2 Phillips
B/5 - 101 AH     
U.S. Army                                                top^

Dated 25 July, 2003
Iraq

Dear Give2theTroops,

I am very grateful to be writing you. The day was rather dull and then my Platoon Sergeant came up to me and told me I had a package to sign for at our Battalion HQ. When I got to the Battalion, I was surprised to see that I had TWO packages awaiting - and both were from you! Wow! Thank you so much - it's really great being able to share so much with my Platoon.

I can honestly say that you have the biggest thanks imaginable from the 3rd platoon!

Thank you for stepping up and helping our troops out.

For now, we are in Tikrit (Northern Iraq) establishing a Police Station. Our mission has not changed as Iraq is very unstable.

Please take care.

Yours,

PFC D.S. Womack
and the 3rd platoon "Regulators"
U.S. Army

Dated 14 April, 2003
Afghanistan

Dear Andi and friends,

I received your package yesterday and really wanted to thank you on behalf of our soldiers. The timing was excellent because we had our weekly soldiers' meeting and I brought the package with me and made sure that each soldier took part, receiving some candy and great mail from the students and Girl Scouts.

These type of things really make a difference to our soldiers. We just started our 6th month of deployment, and just about everyone is ready to get home, hopefully soon. Any mail we receive is an added boon. Thank you again for your time and efforts on behalf of our B/50th soldiers and everything that you're doing for more deployed soldiers everywhere. It truly makes a BIG difference.

CAPT Tim Hardy
CJTF 180
U.S. Army                       top^

Dated 18 April, 2003
Kuwait

On behalf of the men and women of the 76th Transportation Detachment, I want to thank you for your recent care packages of the Easter eggs and cards. The bright colors were a welcome change to the drab environment here, where everything is either Army Green or Desert Sand.

In a place that is lacking so many comforts of home, being reminded of this special event, Easter, is a welcome change to our daily routine of working our 12-hour shifts and sleeping.
Please be assured that the time end effort that you and the many other helpers put into preparing these packages are greatly appreciated.

LTC J. Steve Estep
Commanding Officer, U.S. ARMY
MTMC-SWA
352d - Kuwait                                                      top^

Dated 20 April, 2003
Persian Gulf & Iraq

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops,

My name is Sgt. John Hilgers. I am 32 years old. I am a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps. I have been out here since March 5 of this year. I am in the Mediterranean Sea, which is 7 hours ahead of you. I am on an LSD called "USS Carter Hall" and I have been in the Marine Corps for 10 years.

Today I went to the ship's mess deck and at the end of the line a person was there with a box of eggs. My egg said, "Happy Easter!" I opened it later and found a note from you with some candy. It made me very happy to see your greeting. Days are sometimes hard away from home and the people we love. I thought your egg was so nice of you. It brightened up my whole day.

Thank you so much for the thought - it was very heart-warming.

Your friend,
SSgt. John Hilgers
U.S. Marine Corps