2010 & 2009 Letters - Click here to see 2008 letters

Dated 2 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Here is a picture of some of the Sleepys pillows we received.  These are my data guys.  They keep the network up and running so we are able to communicate effectively.  Crazy, but very smart young fellas. 

I will tell you that those pillows were a huge hit here in Afghanistan.  It is funny how we sometimes take for granted the little things when we are back safe and sound in our homes.  When we come out here a pillow can put a smile on so many Marines faces.  Thank you for your commitment and support.  Please pass on to the volunteers that we love them and thank them for their support and dedication. 

Love “Jerry”

R/S

Sergeant Major Gerald A. Saunders Jr.
1st Battalion, 11th Marines, Firebase Fiddler's Green,
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to let you know that I have received two of your enormous packages in Camp Leatherneck Afghanistan.  The packages are overwhelming and have been consumed by the Marines and Sailors of Combat Logistics Regiment-15 (Forward).  We have personnel scattered all over theatre and your donations will make it to each one of the FOB’s.

CLR-15 (FWD) is made up of approximately xxxx (OPSEC) Marines and Sailors with a dynamic mission.  We have a supply company, security company, maintenance company, logistics company and a surgical company.  We have motivated 18-year-old Marines in the turrets on patrol and senior doctors providing combat care to the people of Afghanistan and the service members in need of aid.  

After growing up in Connecticut it is a great feeling to know the State of CT and its people are behind the personnel here. It was especially great to receive two packages on Memorial Day.

Thank you for your support.

1st Lt Matthew M. Russell, H&S Company Commander
CLR-15 / S-4
U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy

Dated 12 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

Thank you for your prayers and gifts.  It truly is people like you that make freedom worth defending and a country worth sacrificing for.  Anything that can be done to support these brave youngsters is what I have taken an oath to do.  Your support enables this support to occur on levels far beyond what an individual could do on their own.

I am headed out, with a bunch of your goodies I might add, to one of the combat outposts.  I’ll be back in a couple of days and will contact you if I receive more of your care packages.  I am grateful to you and all of the many gifts you share with the Marines.  All of the shaving gear is already gone!  The socks are almost gone and I’m taking the coffee maker to the combat out post I am traveling too. The Marines are grateful and you will probably be getting mail from them very shortly. 

Thank you for putting such effort into the thought of your gifts.  Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you. You must get a lot of joy in the knowledge of having helped so many of these youngsters.  I got to tell you that your gifts couldn't have come at a better time.  At Camp XXXXX (OPSEC) we have experienced numerous casualties.  The Marines are impacted, but continue to be courageous and resilient.  I am so proud of them and what they do.  Your gifts are really appreciated.

God bless you and thank you once again for your gifts.  Be assured they are being put to good and constant use.

Respectfully,
LT Evan D. Adams, (FMF) CHC Chaplain
MWSS 274
U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all so very much for the incredibly generous (and HUGE) care packages you sent to my unit and me!  I must apologize for taking so long to respond, but please don't take that as a lack of gratitude…not only did you all really make my day when I got the boxes from you all, but you made the day of my fellow colleagues who had never seen such an out pour of generosity! 

Where we are located, we do not have access to a US PX/BX so all the goodies were a wonderful taste of home and the hygienic items…well, lets just say we all needed those items, but some folks really needed it more than others! :-) 

Again, thank you for your incredible generosity, your time, your effort, but most importantly, the support you have shown not only myself, but the other US Service members that have received your very generous and wonderful care packages! It's that type of support from great folks like those from your organization who make our time over here all worth it!  

Again, thanks for all you do for our troops ... you are amazing people and we truly appreciate it!

Respectfully,
Capt Aaron G. Lasch
KAIA FINCON P&C
U.S. Air Force

Dated 15 April, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to write and let you know I received the care package you sent. Thanks so much!!!



Best Regards,
Capt Douglas Scheirey
USF-I DCG (A&T)
Connecticut Air National Guard

Dated 7 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your great support!!! On Monday I received 14 more care packages from your organization!!! You guys are so
gracious to us in your doings. I am so amazed by you. From the boxes, we found all kinds of goodies.

While our soldiers picked up goodies from my office, they asked me, "Who sent all of these boxes to us?"

I said to them, "There is a beautiful angel (Andi Grant) of God in our home country. God prepared that angel and her team for us and that beautiful angel now pours down God's care and love to us through her. Remember we are not alone here. We are surrounded with many cares and support from our home country."

I really appreciate all of your support. You really made me be able to serve and take care of our soldiers in their real need. I do not know how to show my sincere thanks to you. I believe that I have to do my best to serve and take care of our Soldiers. Therefore, it is the right way to express my true thanks to you.

I pray and bless you and your loving and beautiful hearts to continue to take care of us. I pray for your ministry and your organization.

I also pray for Andi's leadership. Under her great leadership, your organization will be the great hands of God and will take care of many young people in the uniform.

Please be happy all the time. It is the medicine in your soul that God naturally installed in you.

May God be with you and remember each of you in all your doings for Give2TheTroops.


(Above photo: Communion in Easter Sunday service.)


(Above photo: Handing our Daily Bread)

CH (CPT) Abraham Young Kim
1-37 AR BN, 1BCT/1AD
U.S. Army

Dated 6 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you again for your care packages. I pray very seriously to our God that He must protect our troops  from all dangers. Surely God's angels are working hard to protect us. Enemies are shooting rockets into our FOB, but our good God always makes them do a poor job and they have been landing outside the wire.
 
Your care packages encourage our Soldiers with your love and care. Below is a photo of SPC Robinson's baptism.

I pray and bless you. May God bless you.

CH (CPT) Abraham Young Kim
1-37 AR BN, 1BCT/1AD
U.S. Army

Thank you for your support and the great care packages that we have received from your organization.  We are in a really remote part of Northern Iraq and do not receive the usual support that is had at the major FOB's in Iraq.  We really appreciate all that you have done for us and think that your organization is fantastic!!

A little about us... We are a xxx (OPSEC) man team (we have grown with contractors that support our mission)  We are working with the Iraqi Security Forces in Northern Iraq's Kurdish region.  We live with the Kurds (the name for the ethnicity in the north).  They are wonderful and very protective and accommodating for us.  The area is beautiful with mountains, green grass and trees as well as rushing rivers and mountain springs.  We feel lucky every day that we are not stuck on some hot dusty filthy, smelly FOB, and we fully embrace not having all of the amenities of life for the chance to breath the fresh air out here. 

Well, sorry that this is so short, but thank you again for all of your support, it really makes our day to get packages from home!!

God Bless you all,

CPT Edward D. Patterson
BTT 10601 (COS Irbil)
U.S. Army

Dated 5 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to say thank you for all the stuff that was sent. It brightened everyone's day. I put everything up in our community grab area and put the notes and letters up for everyone to read. It means so much to have people care about us and take the time to think of us out here. Thank you again.

Very Respectfully,
ET1 James A. Corris, Information Assurance
KAIA IJC/CJ6
U.S. Navy - from Groton, CT

Dated 1 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am currently deployed with the 82nd ABN Division in Afghanistan. Our office just received an AMAZING care package from you! Thank you so much. I cannot begin to tell you how much we appreciate your care packages. All of us smile when we receive a box from Give2TheTroops.

Thanks for everything you do!

AIRBORNE!

CPT Eric L. Miller
CJTF-82, CJ1
U.S. Army

Dated 30 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I am a Soldier stationed in Afghanistan and I have received two care packages from your organization.  From all of the Soldiers assigned to the 19th Military Police Battalion (CID), I want to say thank you for the thoughtful care packages for the Soldiers.  I have no suggestions or ideas, but I do want to say thank you again and it means the world to the Soldiers here to receive the support from organizations like yours.

Again, from all of us stationed over here, thank you.  

WO1 Armando B. Delarosa
19th Military Police Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 26 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings to you in God's grace.  I am the chaplain of the 1-37 AR BN, 1-1 AD. At present time we are deployed in Iraq and our soldiers are performing our missions day and night.

Thank you for your great support. You blessed us so much in the amount I cannot explain and you cannot imagine how greatly you
helped. I am sending you a few pictures to update our doings with you. I pray for you and your all beloved ones.

May God bless you.

"A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a
broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)

CH (CPT) Abraham Young Kim
1-37 AR BN, 1BCT/1AD
U.S. Army

Dated 22 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care packages you sent us. We appreciate all of your support so much. Y'all are too kind. Happy Easter!

Thanks,
1SG Carl Mark
C Co. 1/3 ARB, TF Brawler
U.S. Army

Dated 17 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for taking care of our Soldiers and showing them that they have not been forgotten. It's always nice to know they're taken care of and their lives have been made easier because of your actions. This has been an experience for them - not always good, but it's the mail call that they will never forget.

I want to apologize for not writing sooner. I just came back from leave to Minnesota where my wife and boys are. The majority of our Soldiers went back to their homes in Ohio. The vast majority have already taken leave and it's nice to see them come back, even though the don't want to be back here. At least they are refreshed and ready to push through the rest of this deployment. Fortunately, as time goes on, we find out more and more when we will be coming home.

We're living in a new area now which does not have necessities like a barber shop, a PX, a computer lab or a gym - hopefully these will be coming soon. Our current "gym" is smaller than a trailer and it makes it difficult to move during peak times, but we get by.

Again, thank you for looking after the Soldiers of the 447th Military Police Company. We appreciate all you do for us and know that without your support, times would be much more difficult than they already are.

Sincerely,
CPT Patrick Nickle
447 MP Co.
Ohio (and Minnesota) Army Reserve

Dated 16 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Your latest boxes arrived, and they were splendid! More chocolate than we could possibly have wished for. We have shared within our section (30 folks) and then with other sections, and they were all thrilled and wished to say Thank You to your organization for the wonderful things you do.

I wanted to ask if you could possibly help us out in another area. We are trying to put together a Morale, Welfare and Recreational (MWR) Building for our troops here on our compound. This would benefit us, as well as all Soldiers, Marines, Airman and Seaman who come after us. I was wondering if you perhaps had any DVDs you could donate or have a source that would donate? We
have a theatre room set up, in which we can run movies for the folks living here, that they check out to watch. This helps tremendously in breaking up the monotony of war, and a chance to decompress and relax in a casual setting. Also, any type of board games, or electronic games. We have an Xbox 360, a PS3, and Wii gaming system set up for the troops, and would appreciate any type of games for these systems, if it is something you have available.

You have already done so much for us, this would be a way you could directly improve the conditions and way of life for those young troops who are so far away from home, and under such harsh and dangerous conditions. Thank you for anything you can do.
Again, thanks for all you done, you are wonderful!! When I get back, I would like to send up a donation to your organization as you do such a great thing for our troops!

ATW!

V/r,
MSG Patricia T. Pollard, Plans & OPS NCOIC
CJTF-82, CJ1
U.S. Army

Dated 15 March, 2010
Africa

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We recently received two large boxes of snacks and toiletries sent by your organization to al of us through GySgt Jamie Glickman.  I'm sure the command will send its own acknowledgements, but I wanted to share my personal appreciation with your organization, and all of the volunteers and donors.  Your endeavor is one of the reasons that it is my honor to answer our Nation's needs in times of peace and in times of war.  Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

Semper Fidelis,
Sgt Jeremy E. Eddy
Marine Forces Europe/Africa
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 15 March, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all the care packages you sent us! The Soldiers and I appreciate everything your organization is doing.

Thanks again,
1LT Nyisha Taylor
Golf Co., 1-10FA
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you for the care packages. They really helped my Marines and I. We successfully loaded our helicopters and left Iraq. We really appreciate the support from you. It makes the deployment go by easier and reminds us that there are people that care. My squadron and I thank you for your prayers and support as we made it home safe with no casualties.

Thank you again and Semper Fidelis.

Sincerely,
Cpl Andrew Hiske
HMM 364 Airframes "Purple Foxes"
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is William "Bill" Whisennand. I am 42 years old and I am originally from Texas. My unit is an aviation unit and we are stationed in xxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan. Our home station is in xxxx (OPSEC), Germany. We provide aviation support for the entire Western region of the country.

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your support. I received your packages today and it brought a smile to many faces. We are all very far away from home and loved ones and appreciate the kindness and generosity of folks back home more than words can express. For many of us, including myself, this is our first deployment. I re-enlisted at the age of 40 because I felt compelled to serve again in the place of someone who has been either here or to Iraq many times. Besides, I would rather my son be worried about whether his bicycle has a flat tire or how he scored on his math test, than to have him worrying about being killed by a terrorist.

We are in an area that is isolated from any American facilities and any of the comforts that go along with them. The items you have sent, especially the snacks, give us a moment away from what we are doing to enjoy the things that we are used to.

Thanks again for the wonderful things that your organization, its sponsors and volunteers do for the troops and God Bless America.



Respectfully,
SPC William R. Whisennand
D Co. 5/158 Aviation
U.S. Army

Dated 9 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all the care packages you sent us. Thank you for your support of our operations in Afghanistan.

Sincerely,
MM2 Kevin M. Post
Task Group Trident
U.S. Navy

Dated 8 March, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for your support. Because of your prayers, our troops completed their mission and one by one, they are returning to the base now without any sad-thing. Praise the Lord. Here is the picture we took at a night before they left the base for the mission.

Thank you so much for your prayers.
May God bless you.



CH (CPT) Abraham young ki Kim
1-37 AR BN, 1BCT/1AD
U.S. Army

Dated 8 March, 2010
United Arab Emirates

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My soldiers and I would like to thank you for the care package that you sent us.  It really picked everyone up and brightened our day. is wonderful people like you, your staff, and your volunteers that motivate us to do what we do.

V/R,
1LT Scott Kamp
1-7 ADA Echo Company
U.S. Army

Dated 7 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Juan Torres. I'm currently forward deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I'm originally from Dallas, TX so if there's anyone from Texas, please give them my upmost warm greetings … if not that's okay - anyone will do.

I personally want to thank each and every single one of you for supporting the troops who are currently deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Without your support, I don't know where we'd be. Your prayers and thoughts are always in our minds, day in and day out.

I'm in the United States Marine Corps and have been currently serving for nearly 8 years. I've been on 4 deployments to Iraq and this being my first to Afghanistan. It's tough on everyone's families being out here, but it's a commitment that we're willing to make.

I want to thank you all again for your hard work and dedication you give us all. God bless.

Sgt Juan Torres
9th Comm, TRC-170
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

As the SNCOIC for my detachment forward deployed to the xxxx (OPSEC) Province in Afghanistan, I would like to thank all the people of your organization as well as all those who donated to your cause for taking the time to take care of us. The package couldn't have come at a better time. It was nice to be able to get these items to the Marines after a long February supporting operations in xxxx (OPSEC), xxxx (OPSEC), and other areas throughout the rest of the xxxx (OPSEC) Province. Once again we thank you for your time and dedication.

MSgt Richard W. Cole, SNCOIC
MASS-1 DET B, Marine Air Control Group 28, Marine Expeditionary Brigade
U.S. Marine Corps

 

Dated 3 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),
Thank you very much for all your support and the care packages you recently sent us. The troops really appreciate all the items you sent. I am sending the coffee maker you gave us to a unit that has eletricity but i fairly bonded near a Polish Army base. Thanks again for all your help!

Chaplain John A. Meyer
372nd ENG BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 2 March, 2010
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like extend a warm hand of thanks to the Give2theTroops branch of staff/ volunteers.  Several months ago I signed my platoon up requesting morale support only to think we were the forgotten crew.  Thanks for the tremendous letters and essentials of support; for we shall always keep you guys in our thoughts and prayers.

V/r,
SFC Shantell Greene
593rd STB
U.S. Army

Dated 5 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First and foremost, thank you for taking the time to put all of the items together for the care packages.  We all know that you
all are very busy back home and greatly appreciate the support provided to the many bases across Afghanistan and Iraq.  As you can imagine, living a portion of your life in a foreign country can be an eye-opening experience.  I have had the opportunity to deploy to several countries, but this is my first trip to Afghanistan. 

The vast majority of this country lives well below the poverty line and our camp and others provide support each week to villages and refugee camps in the area.  These missions are accomplished in conjunction with our Chapel and other organizations in the area.  I wanted to pass on this tidbit because sometimes that message does not make it back stateside. I have attached a couple of pictures from a village that we provided items to that i am sending you.

As for us on the ground, you may imagine it takes time for each of us to adjust to our new surroundings and get our feet on the ground
after a round of culture shock, jet lag and you name it.  It is nice to receive care packages, cards, and letters from individuals back home. The care and compassion that pours out does not go unnoticed.  We greatly appreciate the time, effort, and planning that you put forth to support us.

My job here in Afghanistan is to plan and program events that help to raise the morale of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines that are deployed to this camp.  You all make my job a lot easier when we see your care packages roll of off the mail trucks.  It may be hard to believe, but over time this place grows on you like any other small town and you dig in and move forward.  As we say, "the mission must get accomplished," but we do stop to have a bit of fun along the way.

Again, thank you for the support that you provide us through your outstanding organization.






Capt Jason W. Ware, Director, Morale, Welfare and Recreation
NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan / Combined Security Transition - CSTC-A CJ1 MWR
Command-Afghanistan
U.S. Air Force

Dated 4 March, 2010
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hell! My name is SGT Victor Ruiz. I just want to say thank you for the four care packages. We appreciate everything you guys are doing to support us while we are deployed. Every time we get a care package it brings up the morale in our unit. Once again thank you very much.

SGT Victor Ruiz
4th Platoon, 180th Transportation BN
U.S. Army

Dated 2 March, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your care package and wanted to say thank you for all your support. With the limited supplies available here and even less for females, many of the items were greatly appreciated. We are grateful for your support. You got rave reviews for the towels, African American hair products, hair bands and conditioning shampoo you sent! Items for any future boxes could be shower shoes, individually wrapped feminine wipes and shower puffs.

Thank you once again for your package and support!

SSgt Artice Shine
7th Mar Hq Co S-4
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 28 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to say thank you for the love and care that was put into the care packages that I received from you a few days ago …  It truly does my heart proud to know that there are Americans, supporters, that are dedicated to the Marines.  You have truly touched each Marine in a way that no man can ever describe to another.  I honestly don’t know how to describe what it is like to see a Marine open a care package and see some of the items chosen with such care and love from the US.  To see / witness how it touches a portion of his heart that is so tender ... he may be hard as nails on the outside but inside, let me tell you, there is a tenderness that you will never know.  The joy that shines through his eyes as he sees a little something that is special ... the excitement that you feel as he shouts in his burst of joy of getting something special only to him.

Please know that it makes it all so worth it. Just to know that "YOU" are out there giving to us ... From the bottom of my heart I thank you with a debt of gratitude … I only wish that I could give back to you what you have given to my Marines. 

No matter how low morale can sometimes get, a letter or care package such as yours will always bring a smile or even a tear of joy…for that I owe you.

Thank you.
Sgt John K. Grimsley, Operations Chief
1/3 Weapons Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 February, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello from Iraq! I'm sorry it took me so long to write back to you all for everything. During the holiday season, my unit had it tough because we were so busy trying to close down our old base. I would literally be exhausted from a 14-hour day work schedule moving equipment onto trucks. My job is being a Transportation Management Coordinator. When I received your care package I was so happy!

At that time, we were rarely receiving mail and we received reduced rations (food). I couldn't write to inform anyone about the fact that my old base was closing down due to security reasons. All I could do was tell my family and friends to send items instead of writing me. So, when I received your care package, I was truly humbled.

My unit and I enjoyed the snacks immediately! Thank you for all of the Christmas cards, too. One card was especially sweet and touching to me. This card was written by an 8-year-old named Oscar. He may not have known who I was, but he knew to say the right words: "Never think you're alone because God is always with you." These words and the loving and dedicated efforts of all those who volunteer and donate to Give2TheTroops, will always remain in my heart for years to come.

Now that my unit and I have relocated, we can relax a bit more. Please do not send us any more snacks due to the rapidly increasing waistlines since relocating to a new base where there's a dessert bar! I do enjoy reading the letters, so feel free to write us.

Once again, thank you so much for supporting us, even though we never met. I am so proud to be an American, and am so glad to have the support from such awesome Americans!

Sincerely,
SGT Kia Xiong
622nd Movement Control Team
U.S. Army

Dated 25 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! I thank you for the items you sent us and just wanted to let you know that the things you do for our Soldiers are very much appreciated. It's good to know that people who I don't even know take the time out to put a smile on a Soldier's face. It really means a lot to me and to my fellow Soldiers. I hope this letter reaches you all in good faith.

We have been here for quite some time now and are due to come back next year. I really hope my time here goes faster than my first deployment. I guess with people such as yourselves and your organization, it will help things be better this deployment.

I just wanted to thank you and let you know that we did receive your care packages.

Respectfully,
SPC Constance Roberts
HHC TF Viper
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 25 February, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch Branch),



SPC Donna Bryant
1218th Trans Company
U.S. Army

Dated 20 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Good  Afternoon/Evening,

Thank you for the care package that you sent us. My Marines were glad to get them. We really appreciate the support during these times. Some of the Marines do not get packages sent to them so they were happy when yours came.  They also like the bags that were decorated by the adults and the children. They have them hanging by their cot - full of the candy and snacks that you sent to them. I really appreciate you doing this for the troops and again thank you.

V/R,
SSgt Calvin Hargrett, Munitions Chief/SNCOIC
Mals-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),



1LT Geoff M. Terman, Platoon Leader
1B 2-77 Field Artillery Platoon
U.S. Army

Dated 18 February, 2010
Middle East

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the 1st Support Battalion, I would like to take this opportunity to offer you our sincerest thanks for the wonderful care packages you took the time to send to us. Your thoughtfulness and kindness is immensely appreciated. Our soldiers are very pleased with the gifts you sent and I assure you they will not go waste. It is very uplifting to know that there are organizations such as Give2TheTroops, that offer selfless service to those who sacrifice so much.






Thank You Sincerely,

SGT Harvey Reveron
NCMTF Lab Medco 1SB
U.S. Army

Dated 18 February, 2010
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to send you a huge "thank you!"  I recently received two big boxes from Give2TheTroops.  What a great morale booster!  They were a colossal hit.  I started distributing the items and the Soldiers in my unit eagerly helped themselves.  They were really amazed at the size of the boxes and the items inside.  The first box is gone and the second box is about ¾ of the way gone.  There was a good assortment of items and nothing went to waste.  We really appreciate the support.  Thanks again from all the Soldiers in the 335th.

LTC Bruce R. Watkins, SC, Deputy G3
335th Signal Command (Theater) (Provisional)
U.S. Army

Dated 17 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I received a care package yesterday and I would like to say Thank you so much. It touched me in more words than I can explain. We here at Afghanistan get excited when we get mail and to get mail like that was heartwarming. We have a grab box in my office so I opened the box and everyone went at it! Thank you again! God Bless!

TSgt Salina Harrison
455 ELRS/ Receiving/TMO
U.S. Air Force

Dated 14 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I was so very pleased and surprised by the generosity of your care packages! I serve directly with over xxxx (OPSEC) Soldiers here in Afghanistan, and I must say that every single person was able to get something special. I opened this up to everyone in our section, and each person came up and "ooohed" and "aaawed" over the great stuff, from socks to batteries, from razors to snacks, everything was perfect!

This is a truly wonderful thing you do for our Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Navy personnel, of which our section is comprised of. Our strength comes from knowing regardless of whatever else is going on with this war, we have the support of our family and friends back home, and we truly appreciate all that you have done to assist us here in theatre.

I am from Washington DC, where my husband is currently at with my children. We PCS'd there from Atlanta, Georgia in 2008. Our children are all older now, my youngest is 14. I have two in their 20's that are in college that stay with us also, we have a total of 7 children, but only 4 left at home now-one is a niece that was placed with us several years ago (she plans to join the Navy or Air Force).

We are definitely a military family, my husband is also a Soldier, and one of my daughters leaves for boot camp later this month. I have another one who will be leaving for boot camp when I return home, she has delayed going into the Army to assist my husband with the kids at home. My husband is now being called to duty here in Afghanistan as well, and will be on his way next month-it is a difficult time for us. I will definitely let you know his address so you could possibly also add him to your mailing list, once he
gets here.  He will not be stationed in the same area as me, unfortunately.

I also have a nephew here in country. He is a young Soldier, and is at a distant FOB without any services (PX, internet,
phone, etc). His name is PFC Marcus Pollard and I will send you his address. If you could possibly send him some items, I know it would make his day! 

Again, thank you for what you do, you cannot imagine the joy and happiness your care packages bring to us here in theatre! Keep up the good work for our military folks!

ATW!

V/r,

MSG Patricia T. Pollard
Plans & OPS NCOIC, CJTF82, CJ1
U.S. Army

Dated 9 February, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I'm Tedferey Faust at 418th Medlog. I am feeling so BLESSED and overflowing in the presence of THE LORD. Your package has really made my day. I am so thankful words can't say how I am feeling. I just think you I know that GOD will bless everyone that made this package reach me. God will bless you in a way that you would never believe. I hope that you guys keep sending troops care packages. You don't know the power of the Lord I feel right now. It's not what you sent me but the blessing to keep moving forward. Please know that I am thankful.

Again, THANK YOU GOD BLESS,

SPC Tedferey Faust
418th MEDLOG
U.S. Army

Dated 6 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! I would like to send my personal thanks for the care package I recently received. My Marines and I give your organization and volunteers/donors a warm thank you. It's people like you who make the days we have here much easier. It's always a good thing and an awesome feeling to know that we have people who care and are praying for our safe return home. My Marines are telling me to also tell you that your organization has brought many smiles and brightened many days. Your work will not go unrecognized by us. I would like to know if there is anything at all that I can help with, please let me know. Again, I say thanks.

Respectfully Submitted,
Cpl Cordell Howard, S-6 Wireman/Radio Operator
2D Battalion, 2D Marines
U.S. Marine Corps 

Dated 8 February, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your boxes - thanks a million. Things are pretty fast over here. I don't know at some points I think it's all a blur by the time I go to sleep and wake back up. I don't know where I am on certain days. I always lose track of the days by the time it's the weekend. I am always asking someone what day it is. All is well and in good spirits.

Thanks again,
MAJ Rontario Hicks
1HBCT, 3ID HHC
U.S. Army

Dated 6 February, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My unit received your package yesterday and I just wanted to send you a thank you note to let you know how much it means to us.  Everything in it has already been scavenged up! It's comforting to know that we are still receiving support from people back home.  My guys work so hard and really appreciate the package. So thank you so much!

Sincerely,
1LT Ronee L Farrell
HSC Co, 603d ASB
U.S. Army

Dated 1 February, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters & North Carolina Branches),

Good day! While deployed, I signed up with your organization and received a few sets of donated golf clubs. They did wonders for morale and were divvied up across a wide area of operations.  Thanks for the help and we wish you continued success to your organization!

MSgt Jason Wysocki
2nd Battalion, 10th Marines, HQ, DET 1
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 February, 2010
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Thank you guys sooo much for everything you do for us here. Even though we are far from home, the effort you put out makes us feel a little closer. You have no idea the impact you put on us soldiers and we greatly appreciate the time you put into us. Thank you so much again and god bless!

PVT Brittany Kemp
Task Force Gateway
U.S. Army

Dated 26 January, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU!! We received (2) BIG boxes from your organization. Both boxes arrived on December 24th - not a better day to arrive and the items were just what we craved - thank you.

A little about us: I am Gunnery Sergeant Salazar, Platoon Sergeant for the Combined Anti-Armor Team II (CAATII) which is an infantry unit from Oahu, Hawaii. We are 1st Battalion, 3rd marines, Weapons Company and are operating in Afghanistan.

It was nice to receive these 2 big boxes from you. The Marines, without a doubt, enjoyed every last bit of it, and they even are using your boxes for storage! We are operating from a patrol base that has limited supplies. We make due with what we have, so receiving these items allowed us to enjoy something different. Half of the Marines here are on their first deployment, so Give2TheTroops allows them to see that people back home DO care.

I did take photos, however I have no way to show them to you. i will save them on my digital camera and will email some over to you once I am able to do so.

Again, thanks for the care packages.

"SEMPER FI!"

GySgt Alvaro Salazar
1/3 WPNS CO. CAAT 2
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 January, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received two huge care packages yesterday and today. Thank you so much, and thank you for all you and your organization do to support Service Members!

I know exactly where I will bring the goodies so that they go to those who need them most. Here at Camp xxxx (OPSEC), our Chaplain has set up a big "Troop Store" - it is a place where service members from all units and branches can come and get pretty much anything they need, from toothpaste to books to ramen noodles. It's called the Troop Store but it's really a "donation drop-off and distribution center" because it is all absolutely free!! It is very popular; over 150 people go through on an average day!

Thanks again and know that your efforts do not go unappreciated!

Best wishes,
CPT Veronica JS Mack, Commander
HHD 211 MP BN
Massachusetts Army National Guard

Dated 21 January, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am the Company Commander of Weapons 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. We are currently in xxxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan. We recently received you care package!

It is deeply heartening to be remembered with such a kind gift. Your letter hit the exact points; we are acknowledged and remembered. You SHOWED us and didn't talk about it with nothing behind it.

I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the time, attention, effort, and money that you have put into this work you do.

I always explain to the Marines when we get packages that people they have never met took their free time to do this, spent their money on them, and the young Marines are beginning to understand what they mean to the nation. We also use some of the candy when on patrols to give to the kids. It is tough for the parents to think ill of us as we ask their permission and then give their kids something that brings a huge smile.

You are helping keep the spirits up inside the wire, and win the people over one patrol at a time, and I say this without exaggeration. When a Marine can come back from a hard day and have something waiting for him to enjoy, a taste of home, it reminds him that people are out there thinking of him, and more importantly doing something about it.

Your very sincerely,

Captain P. D. Stubbs
Weapons 1/3
U.S. Marine Corps

P.S. please give me a bit to get you some pictures, we do not have good electricity here and we need some time to get the cameras downloaded.

Dated 20 January, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to write you and tell you thank you so much for the care packages.  They just arrived today and let me tell you, soldiers were chomping at the bit to get at them.  It's always like Christmas around here when someone gets mail!  We divvied up everything in a matter of minutes. 

It won't be necessary for you to send any more though.  We just got word that we are going to be going home early. That's great news for us because a lot of us didn't get to go on R& because of things that are going on around here. 

A friend of mine who is stationed here in Iraq with me is retiring when we get back.  We would like to get some suggestions on programs that we could start to do to help your organization.  We both work full-time but we know from our experience here that we want to do something for the soldiers once we get home and get out.  I would appreciate any suggestions that you could give me.

Again, thank you to your entire organization for the packages and we appreciate everything that you and everyone back home are doing for us while we're away.

God Bless,

SFC Ki Ki J. Greenwell, AT/FP NCO
90 Sustainment Brigade
Indiana Army Reserve
"MP's Lead the Way"

Dated 11 January, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

Thank-you so much for all that you do! We enjoy every package. My troops and I try to answer all mail that we get but it's time consuming. We're soon moving to a new location due to our mission and I will send you our new address. Thank you again.

SFC Antionette D. Peoples
Task Force 9
U.S. Army

Dated 5 January, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you so much for the care packages you sent us. My team and the teams we work with really appreciated all
the support, reminders of home, and Holiday goodies and decorations you included.

Thank you so much again for all the support and love you sent. It was a really nice surprise to get the big boxes full of some of our favorite things from back home. We will be careful and stay safe and thank you for the offer if we need anything else! I hope you had a great holiday season.

LTJG Katie Gareau
PACE Unit 20-07684
U.S. Coast Guard

Dated 5 January, 2010
War Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Sgt Brien G. Weydert with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.  I cannot tell you how much we appreciate your hard work and all that you do to help make our deployment a little more enjoyable.  I received the packages you sent us on Christmas Day.  Everyone in my platoon was very happy with everything you sent us.  Please be sure to give "Karyn" a special thank you from the Marines of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit Command Element S-6. 

My commanding officer caught wind of the packages you sent us and I believe he is planning to, if he hasn’t already, write you expressing his appreciation as well.  Please tell everyone that makes “Give2TheTroops” possible that everything they do is very appreciated!

V/R,
Sgt Brien G. Weydert
11th Marine Expeditionary Unit
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of 212th Combat Stress Control, deployed to Iraq, I would like to thank you for the care packages we have received from G2TT. We were all thrilled to see such large boxes and could not believe you were able to send us such great things. We are deeply grateful not only for the gift boxes but the message they send to us: that we are thought of, appreciated and loved.

God Bless you and your dedicated staff and volunteers!

SGT Kenita N. Davis
212th Combat Stress Control/212th MED DET (CSC)
U.S. Army

Dated 29 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We just received your care packages here and we're so grateful to have awesome organizations like yours supporting our troops here in Iraq. My name is LCpl Simeoli and I am a Chaplain's Assistant. I get the opportunity to see Marines, Soldiers, and Sailors on a daily bases coming to our (chapel annex) where the items are stored. They are such a morale booster and they really appreciate the items. Your organization is a blessing to our battalion and Camp xxxx (OPSEC) in general. Thanks again for your generosity and kindness and we wish all of you a very Merry Christmas!

God Speed,
LCpl Serena Simeoli and Michael Tadlock
3/24 H&S CO.
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

On this Christmas morning in xxxx (OPSEC), Iraq I must write to express my sincere gratitude for the Christmas stockings which were delivered to the 41st Infantry Brigade of Portland.

Today I am alone in my room unable to talk to my family in Oregon until Christmas morning arrives there in eight hours. No gifts arrived from home and no cards made it by Christmas this year, but my makeshift tree is not barren. My tree is surrounded by an outpouring of selfless generosity that has deeply touched me.

This card was hand-made and donated by a woman in New Mexico. I am munching on saltwater taffy from Newport and drinking a Starbucks VIA coffee sent from Salem. Under my tree is a stocking which you sent and surrounding it are Christmas cards from across America .

Last night, on Christmas Eve, I walked door-to-door delivering boxes of Christmas stockings to soldiers of our brigade. Rest assured, your kindness has touched the hearts of many men and women who are separated from friends and family this Christmas. Although we cannot be with our loved ones, the kindness of strangers and offers of support have meant more than words can express.

With sincere gratitude and appreciation, I offer my heart-felt thank you and wishes for a blessed and prosperous New Year.

SSG Mark Ronning
HHC / 41st 1 BCT, TF Jungleer
Oregon Army National Guard

Dated 25 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received all the holiday care packages you sent us and wanted to send you this photo.

Semper Fi,
Cpl Kyle Domizio
CLB046 CLC
Connecticut Marine Corps Reserve

Dated 25 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Merry Christmas! Again, thanks for making this one special for us!



V/R
COL Ron Green
CJ-4
U.S. Army

Dated 24 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the Airmen who serve with the 577 EPBS at xxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan, I would like to thank you personally and all your volunteers and donors or your generous contributions.  It is with much gratitude and appreciation for your support of the heroes in Afghanistan and around the world.  Especially during this holiday season, we are grateful for all the continuous support and prayers from the home front.

Our nation is built on a strong foundation of people like yourselves, which will endure the test of time from generation to generation. 
Thank you again for all that you do.  Aloha and God bless.


V/r,

MSgt Homer O. Keliiwaiwaiole, Utilities Superintendent/ Unit Safety Manager/ Security Manager/ Unit Airfield Driving Program Manager
577th EPBS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 22 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am writing to let you know how much the Solddiers of my company enjoyed your care packages. It is the effort and support of kind souls like yourselves that reminds us why we fight and risk it all for our country. Thank you for all that you do and I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful new year!

Sincerely,

CPT Edward L. Bombita
HHC 49th MP BDE
California Army National Guard

Dated 22 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I received my package. Thank you so very much. It is always nice to receive packages from the States. I appreciate everyone that who worked so hard to support the Soldiers while we are deployed. As I talk to the Soldiers here who receive packages through Give2TheTroops, they are also grateful. I pray that God continues to bless you and all the people who put the love and care into these packages.

Thanks again,
SFC Sherry L. Williams
HHC, 4TH IBCT EOA, Dragon Brigade
U.S. Army

Dated 21 December, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your support. It's greatly appreciated. You've touched the lives of so many Soldiers over here.

SSG Jeanette Phillips
Task Force Gateway
U.S. Army

Dated 19 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your support. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for everything you have done. Thank you for taking time out of your life to think of the men and women over here. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Iraq.

RP3 Michael Tadlock
3/24 H&S CO Unit 43525
U.S. Navy / U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello, I just received a package today from your organization and just wanted to thank you all for your graciousness and continuing support to those of us deployed overseas. I have already distributed the items that came in the package to my Platoon and to the other Platoons as well. The Chuck Norris books are great and by far probably the best items in the package but we are still appreciative of everything that you have sent us.

A brief background about who we are:

We are 1st Platoon, Charlie Company 1-3 IN (The Old Guard). We are stationed out of Ft. Myer, VA and are more accustomed to doing ceremonies around the DC area as well as conducting funerals in Arlington National Cemetery. This is deployment for us is only the third time that a Company from our unit has deployed since the Vietnam War. Previously our Bravo Company and Delta Company deployed to Africa in 04 and 06 respectively. This is the first deployment that our unit has deployed a Company to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. As Infantrymen we still maintain a combat edge while conducting the various ceremonial duties that we do at FT Myer and it shows tremendously as we continue to set the standard over here.

For me, this is my third deployment. I deployed with the 10th Mountain to Iraq from 2003-2004 and Afghanistan from 2006-2007, so everything here now is just another day at the "office" for me. For my young Soldiers who have not deployed before, which is all of them but one, I try to do as much for them as possible in making things as normal as possible for them and your care package certainly helps in providing a piece of home for the holidays. Once again thank you for everything.

V/R
SSG (P) John T. Rhoten
1ST PLT PSG C Co 1-3 In (TOG)
U.S. Army

Dated 19 December, 2009
Bahrain

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much for the package. I shared the contents with my battle buddies and they also wanted to say thank you. It's nice to see that people still care about the soldiers. Your organization does amazing things for our military. I hope you all have a Happy Holiday.

Thank you,
SPC Ray Hill
HHB, 1-7 ADA
U.S. Army

Dated 18 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for everything you do and all the care packages that you sent us. Everyone in my unit and I greatly appreciate it. I wish you all Happy Holidays!

SPC Amber Reid
571ST MCT
U.S. Army

Dated 18 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

WOW! That's all I can say about the two packages that showed up today.  We were all grateful for the first one you sent us that we received the other day.  I about lost it when I saw the Chuck Norris books, that was awesome! And we spent almost an hour reading the quotes in his book.  That stuff is funny.  Anyway, I will share everything with the unit here with me and I'm sure they will get good
use out of all the goodies and stuff. 

Thank you so much again - your packages rock!

SSgt Jeffrey A. Wharton
JIDC Unit 42129
U.S. Air Force

Dated 18 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you all for the box you sent to my troops. Right now we are in a bad spot, and the package you sent put a big smile on our faces. Again, Thank You for your support.

God Bless All Of You.

SSG Moses L. Cohen III
A. Co. 782 BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 17 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),



Happy Holidays!

V/R,
COL Ron L. Green
CSTC-A CJ-4; Combined Security Transition Command
U.S. Army

Dated 17 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received another box from you yesterday and I wanted to say thanks again. I just want to let you know that we are all grateful. The little packs of Starbucks coffee are great and so simple to make.  You guys rock. Thanks again and I hope you all have fun and happy holidays.

V/r
IT1(SW) Erick Lopez, Comsec NCO
USF-I J6
U.S. Navy

Dated 17 December, 2009
Persian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Every time that we hear "Mail Call", the guys on the Ship Look forward to seeing if we received another big box of goodies from you. And you never seem to Let us down. I want to personally thank your organization for all that you guys do for us. We appreciate it all - I promise you we do.

I am a RP onboard the USS NIMITZ and we have been deployed for almost xxxx (OPSEC) months and we have been doing our best to protect everyone at home. I work for the Chaplains onboard and it makes me feel honor to bring a smile to our fellow Shipmates by allowing everyone to grab things out of the boxes. I want all of you to know that what you do for us is a honor and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Also, I wanted to let you know that we have received the other two packages you sent us.

V/R,
RP3 Aria L. Roberson
USS NIMITZ CVN 68
U.S. Navy

Dated 16 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the HUGE care packages. My Soldiers really enjoyed those items and Christmas cards.  We also liked reading about Andi's story about her great commitment.

Please keep support pray for our country and Soldiers. God bless you and our great supporters.

For God and Country,

CH (CPT) Eunice K. Cho
840th Transportation Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 16 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I am SPC Kube with TF 61st MMB and I wanted to take this time to tell you THANK YOU for all that Give2TheTroops does for all the deployed soldiers. Your box was a welcomed package. It sure lifts my spirits to know that there are people out there who care about us. Please tell every one involved in making this happen, "thank you" and May GOD bless each one of them.

Thanks again,
SPC Jay Kube
HHD TF 61st MMB
U.S. Army

Dated 16 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much.  I just received two very large care packages from your organization.  I have been distributing the goodies out to my Soldiers and they are very well received.  The Christmas decorations that came in the box are being hung up around our HQ building and people have been excited about all of the wonderful food, snacks and entertainment. 

The copies of the Chuck Norris book are being read aloud to everyone that comes by.  The wide variety of things is a blessing, as we have so many people with varied taste, that there is something for everyone.  I will try and get some nice pictures of my troops to send on to you. 

Again, thank you and all of your volunteers.

SSG Charles Young
HHT 1-82 CAV
Oregon Army National Guard

Dated 16 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received the care package and we would like to thank you, Give2TheTroops, Inc. (every one of the donors and your volunteers who helps with your organization). We greatly appreciate the time and effort taken into getting care packages to us and all the other troops around the world.

I would like to thank Troop 104 from Boy Scouts of America for the Banner. We give thanks also for all the items in the care package. The Chuck Norris facts book is hilarious and we all get a roundhouse kick out of reading it.

All the Holiday decorations help strengthen the holiday spirit out here. We received a bulk pack of playing cards from you, too, which comes in very handy for an upcoming spades tournament. Once again, we appreciate all you and your organization does for us.

Thanks a lot.

V/r
IT1(SW) Erick Lopez, Comsec NCO
USF-I J6
U.S. Navy

Dated 16 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the wonderful care package that you sent.  The books, snacks, videos, wipes, cards, Christmas decorations, movies, toiletries, etc were all perfect.  The Soldiers in my unit really appreciated the items.  They helped to make our day a little bit
brighter.  It is nice to know that someone at home is thinking about us.

We are located at xxxx (OPSEC) an air terminal where Soldiers fly in and out of Afghanistan.  We shared many of the snacks with the Soldiers that were waiting for planes to either go home on R&R or go home for good.  They really appreciated the snacks. Sometimes the wait at the air terminal can be very lengthy so the snacks hit the spot.

The days are long here but they are adding up quickly.  My unit is over half-way through its deployment and we are looking forward to going home.  I am in a Signal or communications unit and we set up all kinds of voice and computer communications in Afghanistan.  It is a challenging and important job.

Thanks again.  We are very grateful.

Respectfully,
MAJ Mike Minaudo
7th TTS
U.S. Army

Dated 16 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much. You brought home a little closer to us and really lighten some hearts. Thank you again. Your golf clubs will be left for the next incoming unit.



Thank you again.

CPT Rebecca (Becky) O'Keefe
JASG-C 32ND
Wisconsin Army National Guard

Dated 15 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We got the huge care package today, and I just wanted to pass along my thanks.  I shared it with everyone here and there seemed to be something in there for just about everyone's needs.  I was in need of some conditioner and that was very much appreciated.  I gave the box to the Chaplain Assistant for their office.  I call it "CVS" because the box was so big and it looks like a CVS store with all the generous donations in there. 

Thanks again for doing what you do, it definitely makes a difference for us.

SSgt Jeffrey A. Wharton
JIDC Unit 42129
U.S. Air Force

Dated 15 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of my friends, fellow soldiers, and platoon, I want to thank you so much for all the goodies your organization sent to us. We were amazed at all the stuff you guys sent in the four care packages. You are are true Americans and we appreciate your support! We wanted to send a Christmas card to you but I know that you probably would not have arrived to you until Easter! You're the best. Thanks again for all the support GIVE2THETROOPS gives us out here! Ya'll make a world of difference to us! I'm trying to take a group photo of some of us but its hard to get everybody in one place for an extended amount of time. I'm working on it though!  

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your families!

Thanks Again,
SFC Ed Sanchez
HHB 2-15 FA
U.S. Army

Dated 14 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I saw items from your care package at our mail table in our tent and thought I'd send you a thank you note. We have passed out the discount cards for the flowers (I hope the guys send something nice to their wives). The Veterans cards made by the kids are posted outside our operating room. I truly appreciate all the time and effort you put into sending us love from home. The support you give us is wonderful.

We had a nice snowfall this past week and got to build a snowman! It's been a few years since I've done that. Everyone seemed to enjoy the end result and posed for a few pictures to send home. By the next day, the snow started melting and "Frosty" fell over. It was fun, still the same.

Happy Holidays to All!
CPT Martha Serbus
8th Forward Surgical Team
U.S. Army

Dated 14 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We would like to say thank you for the care package you sent to us (through CPT Joel Feltz). It was awesome and helped us out a lot. We even got to decorate for the holidays with the items we received. We will be taking pictures and will send them to you. Thank you all so much for your support.

SGT James White, SPC Echols, SPC Pagan, and PFC Hackworth and our supporting unit.
Charlie Company, 72d Signal BN
U.S. Army

Dated 14 December, 2009
Bahrain

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My name is Specialist Lawrence Kinsley. I am writing to express my gratitude for the package you have sent me. It really does help when there is nothing else that comes in the mail for a few of us. I will be sharing the contents with those of my friends here who have received very little from home also. I really appreciate that all of you have taken your time to prepare this for soldiers.

Again, thank you so much.
SPC Lawrence J. Kinsley, III
PSC 451 FORSCOM
U.S. Army

Dated 13 December, 2009
Middle East

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to take a moment to send my sincere thanks for the generous gifts sent to our dental clinic here. At times, we are in need of some supplies and it is very helpful to have these items to distribute to our troops at their dental appointments. The generosity of those back home always means so much to all of us Soldiers when we are away from home. It touches my heart to know how much we are in your thoughts.

Many thanks,
CPT Alexa Rihani, D.D.S.
MEDCO 15B
U.S. Army

Dated 11 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We have received your first boxes and are getting those out to our companies.  Should have some pictures for you soon.  Thank you so much.  We love the Christmas tree and have already put it up and decorated it. We are grateful for any and everything that we receive.

Thanks,
Tom

LT Thomas T. Cook
Chaplain's Office SOTF 81 MARSOC
U.S. Navy / U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 11 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello again!

I would like to thank Mother Of Mercy Church and also Michelle for the pictures they sent us. I liked those and they are going up on my wall here.

Thank you,
SGT Raymond Y. Pettit, Training NCO
E CO 2-159th ARB
U.S. Army

Dated 11 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to personally thank you all for the warm thoughts and AWESOME stockings. You all are truly special. We appreciate your sacrifice and dedication. You have brightened many hearts during this holiday season.

Sincerely,
SFC Steven N. Carlgren
1BCT, 82nd ABN
U.S. Army

Dated 11 December, 2009
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I sent you a post card, but just in case it gets lost in the military postal system, I thought I'd send an e-mail as well.  Your care package from Give2TheTroops arrived today. Wow. That was very kind of you to remember us.  I shared it with the 12 other guys in my unit (we share everything).  Mail call is a popular time around here; everyone loves to hear their name called out. You have no idea how much it lifted our spirits.  Thanks for what you and Give2TheTroops does. 

Merry Christmas!
YN1 Jerry Tidd
CAOC-ISAF
U.S. Navy

Dated 10 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We just received your care packages here. We are so grateful to have awesome organizations like yours supporting our troops here in Iraq. My name is LCPL Simeoli and I am a chaplain's assistant. I get to opportunity to see Marines, Soldiers, and Sailors on a daily basis coming to our (chapel annex) where the items are stored. They are such a morale booster and they really appreciate the items. Your organization is a blessing to our battalion and the camp in general. Thanks again for your generosity and kindness and we wish all of you a very Merry Christmas!

Godspeed,
LCpl Serena Simeoli
3/24 H&S CO Unit 43525
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 9 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you for taking the time and energy to think about us, as we serve. I was very fortunate to be the Soldier who received the care package from you.

I am married with six sons. Two of my sons also serve and all of them show great patriotism and I couldn't be prouder. Thank you for you compliments in your letter. I serve for my family, your families, and all Americans. Serving is a calling and I'm thankful I've heard the voice.

I hope you and your families have a great holiday season. Again thank you for thinking of us.

With respect and great admiration,
Greg Evans
41st IBCT Task Force Jungleer
Oregon Army National Guard

Dated 8 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all your support. We received the 2 boxes you sent and we really appreciate it! It is a great feeling to get a box to share with our Soldiers. We really enjoyed your boxes. We put the Christmas lights up and shared everything. It is hard to get some of the items. Although we have a PX, it is never stocked. We really needed the Christmas music to keep our spirits up.

Thank you for everything you do!

CPT Darla Deauvearo
HSC, 615th ASB
U.S. Army

Dated 7 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks again for the wonderful boxes of goodies and hygiene products. It has been a blessing to our unit. We are looking forward to going home soon. What an experience! The 135th ESC will be taking over and they will have the same address as we did. Maybe you will be able to support them as well?

I attached a photo of our unit for you.



The best of holidays to everyone at Give2TheTroops and God bless.

SSG Marcella Benavidez
143d ESC Mailroom
Florida Army Reserve

Dated 6 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU!!! We just received your care packages here in xxxx (OPSEC). My name is LCpl Simeoli and I have the pleasure of working with RP3 Michael Tadlock and the Chaplain and seeing the faces of those who your kindness reaches. We put all the supplies (goodies) in what we call the Chapel ANNEX and the Marines, Sailors and Soldiers can pass by at leisure to pick up what they like.

They are all very grateful. Your kindness is such a reassuring factor in both the morale and sense of worth of a seemingly worthless mission at times. I pray God blesses your homes and helping hands this Christmas season.

Godspeed,
LCpl Serena Simeoli
H&S Co., 3/24
U. S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 December, 2009
Kyrgyz Republic

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Just a quick note to say thank you for the care packages. They really do make a difference and brighten the day when we receive them. I've attached our group photo, so you can see who you are supporting.

Thank you again,
SMSgt Lynette Harshman, First Sergeant
376th ECES
U.S. Air Force

Dated 5 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

The Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan (CSTC-A) would like to extend our sincere appreciation for your recent donations. The books, magazines and toiletries are going out to our U.S. Soldiers. The contributions you have sent are very much needed and appreciated.

On average, we complete a minimum of 3 humanitarian missions per month. Our missions have included the Kabul Orthopedic Clinic which fits Afghans with prosthetics and provides free rehabilitation to more than 10,0000 disabled patients a year; the Indira Ghandi Children's Hospital; Zabuli Education Center For Girls & Women; MIRMUN girls orphanage and numerous refugee camps for the Hazarah and Kuchie tribes. Most of the refugees live in mud huts, tents or buildings made of rubble and ruins. During any one visit we can serve as few as 10 families to as many as 230. Each family receives several large plastic bags filled with clothing, socks, shoes, hats, gloves, blankets, bags of rice, beans and lentils. During the winter months the families receive a bag of coal for heating along with food supplies.

It is your generous donations that make these trips possible. The donations given to the Afghans were from Americans and as you can see from the pictures, our trips put smiles on their faces. We refer this as "winning the hearts and minds" of the Afghan people.

We can always use more for our VCR trips so winter clothing, toys, school supplies and blankets would be greatly appreciated.


Thank you for your support! "Tashakor" means "Thank You" in Dari, the national language of Afghanistan.

SSgt Laloni A.R. Butcher, CMD SURG ETT
CSTC-A
U.S. Air Force

and   

LTC Eric J. Albertson, Command Chaplain
CSTC-A
U.S. Army

Dated 5 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Jessica Pesantez of the 101st HSC ENBN deployed here in Iraq with my husband. We both just wanted to send along a BIG thank you from our hearts. This is a great thing that you have going on. It has helped us a lot. We are from Boston, Massachusetts and we are not that far from you. I just wanted to tell you how thankful we are for all the gifts.  

Thank you again,
Alex and Jessica Pesantez
HSC 101 EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 5 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just wanted to say thank you for the packages that were sent to us here from you! They were filled with items for our K9 partners.  We cannot say thank you enough and of course we will be sending photos soon. 

We were able to split up the 8 care packages up amongst 3 different FOBs that all fall under me.  Of course, the dogs are very, very thankful - especially for the treats and the toys.  It's always nice receiving items for our partners since sometimes they get overlooked. 

Some people don't realize how important these dogs really are and how thankful we are to have them and be able to do the job that we do.  As for my dog, his name is Bengo and he is a 6-year-old black German Shepherd and of course is a big love bug.  He is a trained attack dog and is trained to find explosives. 

This is our second tour to Iraq together and he is loving life being able to stay in my room and spend 24/7 with me.  He loves the squeaky toys you sent and I will send some pictures soon. 

As for me, I have been in the Army for 11 years and have been stationed at Fort Lewis for 8 years. This is my 3rd time to Iraq. We also want you guys there to know that you are definitely appreciated and we cannot say thank you enough!! 

Thank you and your organization again!!


SSG Jodi Stone and
The Military Working Dog Section
U.S. Army

Dated 4 December, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

The 1/169 AVN received your second care package today. As you know, being away from family and loved ones can be hard, but more so during the holidays. What your organization does for deployed troops is so thoughtful and generous.

We can't thank you enough for all that you do for us. It really means a lot to us. I hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving and hope you have a great Christmas. Again, thank you from the entire 1/169 Task Force HAVOC.

SGT Daniel Parlpiano
1/169 AVN
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 4 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you from Afghanistan! The six (6) boxes from Give2TheTroops arrived today, safe & sound. I can't tell you how appreciative I am to your organization.  The CJ-4 is putting together a Christmas party and we will use all the supplies you so graciously sent to make it something special.

Be on the lookout for pictures from the party.

Just a note, I've never had a better quality (and quantity) care package sent to me and this is my 4th deployment!  Keep up the fantastic work!

Again, thanks!

Happy Holidays!

V/R,
COL Ron L. Green
CSTC-A CJ-4; Combined Security Transition Command
U.S. Army

Dated 3 December, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I have been super busy with this job, and things don't get easier with time ... especially if you're good at what you do. In fact, it all gets harder because you're expected to do more. That's how it's been for my unit and me this time around with another deployment. It's been super hard getting used to things and our jobs. There's a lot expected of us and it gets hectic every now and again.

The only reason I have time to write you now (I made the time) is because of YOU. Everyone in our unit loved your care packages so much. They were happy to see how kind people can be to send us all a Christmas tree and the many other gifts that came from the package!

Your organization is truly wonderful you in everything that you do. I am so thankful and from HHB 1-9FA we are all thankful for what you have brought us. This is a tough time of the year for many Soldiers and you have just brought so much happiness to every Soldier fighting for our country.

All I can say is THANK YOU from me and from all the soldiers out here who get to have a Christmas because of your organization and its people who really care about us and pray for us each and everyday. I wish there was more I could say.

Again, THANK YOU!
SPC Billy Sapp
HHB 1-9FA, 2BCT, 3ID
U.S. Army

Dated 2 December, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My counterparts and I want to thank you for your generous care packages. We have received three of them. I am working on getting everyone together for a picture to send you.  Everyone is extremely grateful for all the cards and items that you sent. I am sure they will be put to good use. Thanks again, I will write again once I get the photo taken.

Keep doing what you are doing - it is really helping ... let everyone know we are all very thankful for all the support and donations we receive from you.

By the way, I don’t know if I told you before I am originally from New Fairfield, CT. My parents still live in Danbury.

TSgt Matthew T. Sergi
AMMO, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing
U.S. Air Force

Dated 1 December, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package you sent to the 1/169 AVN. all of the stuff went out to the troops and didn't last long.

It is always nice to get packages from home. I hope you all have a great holiday!

SGT Daniel Parlpiano
1/169 AVN
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 28 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Here are a few pictures from the month of November of me serving the Thanksgiving meal to Soldiers on our Combat Outpost. It's an old military tradition for the officers and senior NCO's to serve the junior guys any holiday meal. Considering where we are, the food
was not too bad. I am also sending you photos from your second box which arrived today. These are just a few of our Soldiers with some of the stockings that your volunteer, Sally Pezanko made us. I realize how genuine your volunteers are. They definitely care about each of us as the individuals. You guys are the best!









Thanks again,
1LT Geoff Terman
2-77 FA (Steel Warriors)
U.S. Army

Dated 27 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I would like to say thank  you for the wonderful boxes we received.  I typed a letter attached and want you to know I thank you for your continued support for our troops around the globe.



Very Respectfully,
HMC Robert A. Stubbs
H&S/Medical MWSS 372
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am CPT Patrick Nickle, Commander of the 447th Military Police Company. My Soldiers and I just received multiple care packages from you and I wanted to thank you. I think it's wonderful that you take the time to send magazines, treats and hygiene products to the Soldiers. I know my Soldiers appreciate the packages and appreciate your support. It is amazing that we have this support even though the was has been going on for almost 9 years.

I am originally from Minnesota, but my company is our of Canton, Ohio. Our mission is Detainee Operations which is basically working in a prison and on our first day, "stuff" was thrown on 8 of my Soldiers. I tell you this because I want you to know what the Soldiers go through as they work. Gifts like yours make life that much more enjoyable after having days like they do.

They appreciate the simpler things in life now that they have seen how bad things can be. One of those simple pleasures is getting off shift and getting mail and treats. They don't care who it is from, they just want to know they are not forgotten.

So thank you for supporting us - we do appreciate your contributions and I appreciate the smiles you put on my Soldiers' faces.





Sincerely,
CPT Patrick Nickle
447th Military Police Company
Ohio Army Reserve

Dated 26 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Once again you have outdone yourselves. Words cannot express the gratitude for everything you have done for us. We got the display case full of Cappuccino and the box of knitted beanies (hats), tea, the Chuck Norris book, the solar charger, voltage converters, Oreo brownies (which lasted about 5 minutes, if even that), hot chocolate, peanut butter, etc.

The Cappuccino flew off the display case once I put it in the chow tent. You guys are great. Keep up the good work and thank you once again for all of your support. Happy Thanksgiving!

Semper Fidelis,
1stLt Tyson Rae
HMH-463, QA MAG-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I wanted to take this time to thank you on be half of our Marines here in Afghanistan. We are very grateful to hear and receive your well wishes. I have passed these on to the Chaplain and will ensure that the Marines and Sailors throughout the AO (area of Operation) will receive them.

Thank you and happy holidays,

CWO2 Jared M. Ellis
LCLR2 HQ Co. S-3
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to say THANK YOU for everything. My platoon and I appreciate all gifts that were enclosed inside our box. Being over here in Afghanistan its pretty hard to get supplies we need, so THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts. All the cards and letters we received raised our spirits. We have all the children's cards all over our tent. Again I want to say thanks to EVERYONE! We love our jobs over here because we know that we are protecting our home.

THANKS,
SGT Natario A. Reese Sr.
TF ODIN/Task Force Thunder
U.S. Army

Dated 21 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much for the care package!  There are 8 of us here from North and South Carolina.  We are currently deployed to Afghanistan.  We have all the letters and cards on display for everyone to read as they walk through our shop.  Once again thanks! It was unexpected and very much appreciated.

Respectfully,

SSgt Danielle N. Langley
455th Equipment Maintenance Squadron
U.S. Air Force

Dated 20 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the kind and generous gifts you sent. We really enjoyed everything. Sorry it has taken me so long to write. I just came back from leave and had been reassigned to a new office. I did want you to know how much ya'lls care package was appreciated.

Sincerely,
SGT Morgan Hise
1174th/395th
Tennessee Army National Guard

Dated 12 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I want to thank you very much for the care package your organization sent to me. I distributed the contents to all the firefighters here at Joint Base XXXX (OPSEC). You have brought smiles to the faces of everyone, especially the firefighters that are on their first deployment. Again thank you very much.

(M)Sgt Eric T. Kinman, Assistant Chief of Operations
Fire Emergency Services
U.S. Air Force

Dated 11 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First and foremost – Thank you! 

I currently Command a Marine helicopter squadron in Afghanistan and the Marines have received several care packages from your branch and your organization.  They're perfect!  Without a doubt – you have brought a little piece of "home" to them during an extremely challenging mission. 

These young men and women work tirelessly without complaint and I'm confident you would be very proud of these true patriots as they very professionally and sincerely carry out our task. 

Simply wanted to let you know – that you have certainly made a difference in a few Marines lives ... by caring.

Semper Fidelis,
LtCol Christopher C. Abrams, Commanding Officer
Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group 40, 2D Marine Expeditionary Brigade
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 11 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just came from one of the most enjoyable afternoon meetings I have had since I have been in Afghanistan. Myself and a few other Airmen gathered up a good amount of parcels I received and invaded the conference room. We separated the goodies into different piles and started to put together individual goodie bags for the men and women we have in our squadron.

Recently our unit changed to the 577th Expeditionary Prime Beef Squadron and we added xxx (OPSEC) more people. I started to hand out the great items you sent to us to individual Airmen and then I decided it was best, since you are all so VERY generous with your packages, to create individual packages for my Airmen. So I set aside some of the items to specifically hold for this mission. We were able to fill over 90 individual bags with a variety of things from soap to scarves to chips to cookies to pen lights ... I could go on and on.

It took us a little over two hours but it felt like 20 minutes. We set up a plan to distribute the bags to the Airmen during our Thanksgiving Day party. I cannot express how wonderful everyone who helped with your amazing packages are. My Airmen were poking their heads in to the conference room to see what was happening and see what they could "score".

Thank you so very much for your benevolence - I wish I could record them when they say "Wow! They sent this stuff for us?" It made my day.

I was sure to be there with my camera to catch the smiles!





Thank you again,

Dated 10 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Just wanted to send many thanks from my guys and girls! Your box came right on time because we were having a drought in mail due to red air so it was good that everyone got something out of the box. I enjoyed the handwritten cards and postcards from people across the States. We have a lot going on over here and at the various camps we visit during our combat logistic patrols. Thank you again!

1LT Sheena Rubin, Company Platoon Leader
498th Transportation Company
Alabama Army Reserve

Dated 10 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I have been deployed again to Afghanistan and I found a letter from Ms. Andi Grant lying around and read it. I don’t really need anything, but everyone enjoys getting packages while we are deployed to various countries. It is difficult for people who have never had to deploy to realize that some of the comforts of home are not so common while deployed. They don’t understand what it is like to be away from family during the holiday season time and time again, or to miss your son's 13th birthday.

Don’t get me wrong I love serving my country, I have been doing it for nearly 20 years now, and I would not trade my experiences for anything in the world. I do dislike the fact that I can’t spend the holidays with my family but, knowing that there are people like you out there makes it a lot more tolerable. I guess I just want to say thanks for what you are doing, I have several troops under me and I make it a point to show them these letters and tell them this is what we are fight for ...

I just want to let you know we appreciate all you do for us and it does make a huge difference.

TSgt Matthew T. Sergi
455th Air Expeditionary Wing/MXMW
U.S. Air Force

Dated 9 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to take a moment to express my sincere thanks to all of you at Give2TheTroops. Both of the boxes you sent came through just fine, and were immediately pounced on by the Soldiers of my unit. Please relay a special thank you to Stacy and Mason Ashly for packing the boxes, and Maureen for the note she included. Thank you again for you outstanding support of the 60th Engineer Company.

SFC Michael R. Martin, Operations NCO
60th Engineer Company, 19th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 8 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to take this opportunity to send you a short note and thank you and your outstanding team of supporters for the care packages which my unit received. We received the packages a couple of weeks ago and the timing was absolutely perfect as the Unit of Soldiers were experiencing one of our absolute greatest challenges in regards to the loss of a Soldier.

The Soldiers all passed around the letters and cards and of course were also extremely excited about the other contents of the box. Our Point of Contact with you is MAJ Dewey Haines. It is always great for the Soldiers to see the care and support of people and your organization. I hope this message finds you and your team doing well as we approach this holiday season. Thanks again on behalf of my Soldiers and myself.

Again, thanks from us and all the Soldiers you and your team have supported.

CSM Thomas J. Seaman
22D Military Police BN (CID)
U.S. Army

Dated 7 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My paratroopers and I just received the box sent from your organization and we are truly grateful for you thinking of us while we are deployed. Thank you again.

ALL THE WAY!

V/R,
SFC John T. Tramack
HHC 1-504 PIR
U.S. Army

Dated 7 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Just wanted to send a quick thank you for the care package you sent. It was much appreciated. We have been very busy here doing combat logistic patrols about every day. The soldiers are very thankful for everything that you sent here, and I share things with my platoon. Most of all, we appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Thanks again,
SFC Scott A. Zeller, Platoon Sergeant
C TRP 2-107th CAV
Ohio Army National Guard

Dated 6 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My Name is SGT AJ Romero and I am with the 543rd Military Police Company Stationed at xxxxxx (OPSEC), Iraq. Today I received at box from your organization. I wanted to take a few minutes to drop you a line and tell you thank you. I greatly appreciate what your organization does for us troops.

As I mentioned early I am a Sergeant and am in charge of xxx young men and women. I have xx young ladies and xx young men. I am the oldest of my squad of a ripe old age of 33 in 2 days (Ssshh! Don't tell anyone it's my birthday). The rest of my soldiers are ages 22 to 17. So I like to call them my "children".

I wanted to let you know that I shared the box with my soldiers. They love the hand sanitizer, (Yes that’s strange but they go through it like crazy) and the cookies were quite nice. They were just talking about how they wanted to get some Girl Scout Cookies and POOF! they arrived in the mail from you.

I wanted to send you a thank you and let you know that someone out here in the sand box appreciates the gesture.

God Bless you and your families and thank you,

SGT Anthony J. Romero
543rd MP CO.
U.S. Army

Dated 6 November, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

First let me thank you for taking the time to put together care packets for me and my Soldiers. Sorry for not writing sooner, but I have been very busy and the days go by so fast here in Afghanistan. I shared the boxes with my Soldiers and everyone here appreciated your kindness. It is my Soldiers' and my pleasure and honor to protect you and your families, while we fight a war in another country and try to stop the war from spreading to the United States of America. Once again, thank you and your families for your kindness.

SFC Albert Llanos
TF 41
U.S. Army

Dated 6 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the package that was sent out for me and my clip. We appreciated everything that you sent to us. It was all sorted out to everyone's needs. The honey buns were eaten in about six seconds! LOL.  I wish there was a way to thank everyone who helped and all of the kids who drew the pictures and the Starbucks cafe who sent the coffee, The books, the toiletries, the snacks, and the poster. So, please, let whomever know that clip Crazy Horse 2-2 of the C Troop 2/107 CAV says, "Thank You Very Much!"

SPC Bill Williams
C-Troop 2/107 CAV (DRT)
Ohio Army National Guard

Dated 5 November, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to send a quick note of gratitude from my unit and me. We truly appreciated your time and effort in sending us some goodies and items that we need while deployed to an expeditionary base. Thank you for thinking of us while we are far from home. It really makes us miss it, but also makes us grateful that we have a home to return to. Thanks again to all of you in your wonderful organization.

SA Zinnia P. James
386 AEW/AFOSI
U.S. Air Force

Dated 5 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Today I received a box from your organization and I must say that it really brightened my day. It had everything in there from cute eye shadow to snacks!! THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOO MUCH! My battle buddies and I split everything up and we can't wait to get off and enjoy our gifts that you sent. We are truly blessed to have support from you.

I really enjoyed the cards from the children. Please let them know that all their cards were beautiful and I will post them up on my wall. I cant say thank you enough. Please continue to support the troops you are doing a wonderful job! :) THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!

V/R,
SPC Kareisha L. Vann, Actions/Promotions Clerk
HHC 1-227 ARB
U.S. Army

Dated 5 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you all so much for the care package. We found a lot of useful items inside the package, not only for us but for other platoons as well. We should be pretty well stocked up on hygiene items now. In the future if you send more boxes we could use entertainment items. Items such as baseballs, baseball gloves, footballs, and other sporting products you may have.

We love seeing what surprises you have in store for us when we open the packages. Also, we can always use items like socks, underwear, and air fresheners. We go through more air freshener than you could ever imagine. Again, thank you for the package and we look forward to more. Enclosed is a picture of a few of the guys from my platoon, I am the tallest one holding the thank you sign.



SGT Kile Brooks
301st Chemical Co.
Kentucky Army National Guard

Dated 4 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I wanted to take a quick second and thank you from the bottom of my heart for the package you sent. The guys and I really appreciate it. The little things always bring a smile to our face. I hope you are doing well and that you have a good day. Thanks for the support

SSG Travis Brown
C Co 5-158th
U.S. Army

Dated 4 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello all. First of all, let me say thank you for all you do and for all the support your organization Give2TheTroops does! My name is SFC Ed Sanchez and I am currently here in Iraq for the third time. As the war in Iraq is slowly coming to an end, so is the mission and the need for us to be here. As a result of mission changes and less need for us to "leave the wire" we are faced with long, lonely days on this small patrol base.

We do not get visits from celebrities like the bigger camps and Forward Operating Bases do. We entertain ourselves by playing soccer with the Iraqi Security Force Troops on a field of gravel and dirt. I consider myself to be a good soccer player, but some of our players have never played before or been part of a team. if you could sponsor us with a few jerseys and a couple of soccer balls, that would be great. The balls we have are getting beat up by the rocks.

Again, thank you for taking the time to read this letter and for all your support.

Sincerely,
SFC Edward Sanchez
2-15 Field Artillery
U.S. Army

Dated 3 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so very much from Military Transition Team 2110. Your organization's overwhelming generosity has brought a great deal of joy to our team. The post cards were encouraging and we have posted them so everyone can read them and know that we still have the support of the people. We are not stationed on an American base. We are stationed on an Iraqi Army base, embedded with an Iraqi Army unit. It is very easy to forget that we still have support. So again thank you very much for thinking of us and sending us your prayers and encouragement.






MSG Robert Richardson
MiTT 2110
U.S. Army

Dated 2 November, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the two awesome care packages you sent to us! The six females would really like to thank you for catering to us! The other 100+ (OPSEC) males liked everything else. It is nice to see so many people who care about us and that you have not forgotten us. Thank you for your time, thoughts, and support. Charlie Troop from Xenia, Ohio thanks you all!

SPC McKinzie Baker
C Troop 2-107th CAV
Ohio Army National Guard

Dated 30 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received another care package from you last night. I can't thank you enough for everything. I put the box down in the chow tent for all the Marines. The candy was a big hit. I personally read all of the holiday cards that were included. My favorite were the ones from the kids. I have a son who will be 1 this December so I'm kind of partial. It's great to know that so many people support us back home. I saw that you put the pictures up on the web site also. I showed them to the Marines in the photos and told them they were famous now. Have a Happy Halloween and thank you once again.



Semper Fidelis,
1stLt Tyson Rae
HMH-463, QA MAG-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello. I am 1SG Chris Peters. I received 2 huge boxes from you full of much needed items. This happened back in March 2009. There was so much stuff that we did not need anymore and by July, we had enough people sending us items that I did not wish for you all to send us anymore so as not to waste it. All items were utilized on FOB xxxxxxx (OPSEC) in Afghanistan and its surrounding outposts by my Soldiers or Soldiers from other companies. We do appreciate it. The coffee went quick.

I am sorry I did not write sooner. I misplaced your address and did not think about it again until I saw the paper that came with the boxes the other day. Again, thank you. It is always nice to know that people that donate to you really truly care for us here.

We have had a rough deployment as a Brigade. Some units more so than others. I believe we have made a difference, at least in our area of operations. Take Care. Please continue the outstanding methods of support you are providing. Even though many will not come right out and say thanks, know that the Servicemen and women really do appreciate the folks back home.

We do what we do for you all.

Respectfully,
1SG Christopher Peters
C Company, 3rd BSTB, 10th MTN Division
U.S. Army

Dated 29 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Billy and this is my second deployment. My last deployment I know very well that you helped me and my unit have lots of fun. Because of you 3 people in my unit learned to play the piano during our last deployment. And 2 people learned to play the guitar you sent. My unit and the unit after us got to play with some of the baseball bats and balls that you donated to us.

Well, here I am again. I'm off with my unit. Same one as last time but with a whole different crew of people and this time there telling us we might be here for a LONG time.

I just wanted to say "hi" and I wanted to thank you. I lost touch with you but really wanted to thank you for helping all those times. I have permission from my NCO and Chaplain Assistant to give out packages once again to our Soldiers.  We're all going too miss Christmas again and I know how special you made the holidays for us last time.

Again, sorry for not keeping in touch. But this time I have all software programs I need to send you pictures and hopefully some video.  You have no idea how helpful you were to my unit last time. THANK YOU!!!

SPC Billy Sapp
HHB 1-9FA
U.S. Army

Dated 28 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received two boxes from your organization yesterday and they were chock full of much appreciated goodies! Everything in the boxes brought smiles to my troops' faces from the postcards to the Kool-Aid, Girl Scout Cookies, Popcorn, and Snickers bars etc.
I'll get some photos taken of my folks enjoying the goodies and will send them to you.

Take care and Happy Halloween,

SMSgt Roderick Schwald
First Sergeant, 455 EMXG/CCF
U.S. Air Force

Dated 28 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received your packages today. I just want to say thank you so very much for the great care packages. It's wonderful to get something from the States. We get a little homesick, but it's a good thing. My company partners thank you too. The stuff that they sell here at the PX is not all that great. I think they get their supplies from the stores that are throwing out all there expired stuff!! The snacks are always stale.

Tell the kids thank you for the wonderful Halloween cards. Thank you again.

Have a Happy Halloween,

Your Soldiers from the Slayer Kennels "Alpha Dogs" !!

SSG Margaret Brooks
MNC-I PMO, Slayer K-9
U.S. Army

Dated 27 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I am Sergeant First Class Kirk Royer. I am the recipient of the box that your organization has sent to us, B 1-14 FAR out of Fort Sill, OK. Let me be the first to say thanks from the bottom of my heart. As a Leader, it is my job to lead, train, prepare Soldiers for combat as well as try to the best of my ability, keep up morale.

It is a blessing every time we receive a box from an organization. It means a great deal to the Soldiers knowing someone out there is thinking of us and is willing to take the time to send a box of goodies. We hung up all the cards in our offices to remind us of the care you guys have given us. Thanks.

In closing, I would like to say thanks one more time and please keep up the great work. I know it takes time and money to do what you are doing and we appreciate it.

SFC Kirk D. Royer, Platoon Sergeant
B 1-14 FAR
U.S. Army

Dated 27 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I want to say thanks for your thoughtful gifts to our Soldiers. Your efforts truly have brought joy to our day. I personally witnessed it when my Soldiers received the contents that you provided to us. I work in Albany, Oregon and I am touched that someone from Albany would be sending us care packages. Thanks again for you selfless service.

MSG Carlos J. Barrientos, Assistance IG
41st IBCT/ TF Jungleer
Oregon Army National Guard

Dated 27 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received the package you sent us.  Thank you.  My team enjoyed going through the box.  There was quite a bit of needed stuff.  The snacks of course went fast.  Everyone loved the devil horns and little witches hats for Halloween. We all thank you.  Next time we will remember to take pictures. Thank you, Thank you and Thank you.

MAJ Sylvia Arvizu
PRT Khost
U.S. Army

Dated 25 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received 2 huge packages from you! All 90 lbs. of them - lol. The Marines loved them. They all told me to say thank you, especially the boys from New Haven. Really ... we cant thank you enough.

Semper Fi,
Cpl Kyle Domizio
CLB046 CLC
Connecticut Marine Corps Reserve

Dated 22 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received another package from you today. This one had all the candy, footballs, shirts, lawn darts (awesome), coffee, and more coffee creamer. Thank you once again for your contribution and support. We immediately went out and played catch with the football for about an hour. It was a great relief and break from the monotony of our everyday routing. Everyone was in higher spirits the rest of the day. It couldn't have come at a better time as we only had one football here that got misplaced. It's hard to know you're in football season back home and you can’t even toss the pigskin around out here. It was a big hit and huge success. You guys are the best. Take care and we all thank you again for what you do.

Semper Fidelis,
1stLt Tyson Rae
HMH-463, QA MAG-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received our third box from you today. My troops are so happy. It means a lot to us. I will ask around and see if the ladies need anything in particular. A lot of them do not have family that is able to send them things, or we have spouses that are taking care of children back home for the first time, so it is hard to get stuff. Thank you all so much again. It means a lot. We are the 15th Sustainment Brigade Support Operations Division from Fort Hood, Texas.

Again, thanks ...

MAJ Sondra Wilkerson
15th Sustainment BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 20 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the two huge care packages you sent. I distributed everything in them to more than 50 members of our Battalion. Candy is a normal "smile getter" around here. And the Girl Scout cookies bring back fond memories of home.

A lot of guys forget that we will eventually be going home - especially the younger ones, who get depressed. Knowing that tomorrow will be better for us as well as the Iraqi people helps me to cope with being away from my children. I know this letter was sent to you via snail mail, but it will eventually get to you. I do not have access to a computer over here on a regular basis.

Any future care packages you send us will be distributed amongst our battalion. Your support for our morale will help us drive on until we finally reach home.

Thanks,
SPC Steven R. Bock
C Co 121 BSB, 4-1 AD
U.S. Army

Dated 19 October, 2009
Fort Benning, Georgia

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I just wanted to say thank you ... simply thank you! I came across your web site accidentally while reading some of the amazing testimonies and I saw a very familiar scene of Soldiers in a random photo. When I looked at the person who sent it ... wow! It was from my unit ... small Army!!!  I am grateful for people like you and the mission you strive to perfect!  It is because of what you all do that maintains Soldiers' morale through difficult times.  During times of needed strength and whenever there is sadness, you are there!  Thank you, thank you, thank you!

SGT Theodore Cieraszynski, III
MEDDAC
U.S. Army

Dated 19 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the box of coffee creamer. I was shocked when I opened it as there was way more than expected. The squadron thanks you for your support and contribution. It couldn't have come at a better time. I am sending a photo that some of the coffee drinkers and I took with the display case of creamers you sent us. Thank you again.

Semper Fidelis,
1stLt Tyson Rae
HMH-463, QA MAG-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank all of you "elves" for sending us an early Christmas present.  At least that is what it felt like when we opened those 2 HUGE boxes!!  People typically send soap, toothpaste, disposable razors and the like…and maybe an old magazine or two.  But not Give2TheTroops!  We have a display for creamer next to the coffee pot.  I think Lt Rae is going to send you some photos.  The Girl Scout cookies went like wildfire!  Everyone wanted one of the new razors you sent.  The little exchange here has a few items, but runs out quickly.  So we get hygiene products through donations to the Chaplain.  Have plenty of that kind of stuff.  But the M&Ms went over big as well as the Snickers and Twix.  You made our day for sure.  Also, thank you for the SPAM. It is an acquired taste, but you can get SPAM at McDonald’s in Hawaii when you order a Loco-Moco. Tell all a big MAHALO from the Hawaii based Marines of HMH-463.

Semper Fi,
GySgt Terry Bollman, Quality Assurance Chief
HMH-463, QA MAG-40
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We have received our packages that you sent us. The items were greatly needed and appreciated. The ladies loved them. We have a lot of young Soldiers who are away from home for the first time and the packages came at the right time.
Thank you and God Bless.

MAJ Sondra Wilkerson
15th Sustainment BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 14 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the Packages, we received 2 large packages yesterday and 1 large package today. The look on the Soldiers' faces when they saw these big boxes and then were told the boxes were for everyone ... well, their faces lit up. It is great. We appreciate everything you for us.

I think it's great that Give2TheTroops has a special K-9 program. I was an Army dog handler for 10 years. I know what the handlers go through over here with their dogs.

You will never know how much these young Soldiers love it when we receive a package from you. It is awesome. The entire Give2TheTroops organization is wonderful. You provide a little bit home when we are so far from home.

Thank You,
SFC Michael Sytsma
571st MP Company
U.S. Army

Dated 14 October, 2009
Southwest Asia

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package.  It really lifted my troops' spirits.  Thank you for everything!

TSgt Angela Matheny, NCOIC
Sgt-at-arms 5/6 Council
386 ELRS/ETDC
U.S. Air Force

Dated 13 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received a care package from Give2TheTroops a few days ago and I just wanted to send you a quick note and tell you how grateful we are for your support.  I think it is awesome there are organizations out there like Give2TheTroops who take the time to put together packages and send them out here to us.  I know it means a lot to everyone to know that people do support and care about us.  It is just as important to the 18-year-olds as it is to the 40-year-olds.  Also there were a bunch of cards made by some students.  Could just you let them know we all said thank you for the cards and support?.

Respectfully,

Sgt Mai-Lee T. Smith
MAGTF Materiel Distribution Center (MMDC)
CLC-151, CLR-2, 2d MEB
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 October, 2009
Germany

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I have been home since last November - almost 1 year. Life is different being back. I am now in Landstuhl, Germany. I am working in a nice non-deployable unit for now. I just wanted to thank you for everything you did and you continue to do. I still talk about the support you gave us in Iraq last year. I actually still have photos of my unit taken with those painted pillow cases you sent us. Your group is really awesome.

Thanks again,

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

Dated 7 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you to all of you who worked so hard to put the 4 packages together that we received in Afghanistan this week.  The snacks were wonderful and the personal hygiene items will be put to good use.  At the Battalion level we constantly have our subordinate unit Soldiers coming and going.  It's great to have items on hand that they forgot to bring or don't have. The PX is usually pretty bare bones.  Also, please relay our sincere thanks to Troop 118.  I have their pictures hanging on my bulletin board!  It's so great to know there are people back home donating their time and energy for the Soldiers.  It makes being here just a little easier!  Here are a few pictures of us here.  





Thanks again and God bless!
SFC Lisa Dougan  
741st EOD BN
U.S. Army

Dated 7 October, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to write you to thank you again for the care packages! They were certainly more than we could have expected. I know that all of the Marines here enjoyed digging through them a whole lot and the Snickers bars certainly went a lot faster than I ever could have imagined! Thank you again for your gifts to us, they have been very encouraging to everyone here! We will be redeploying back to the states in the near future, and have appreciated your generosity throughout this deployment - it hasn't been unappreciated!

Thanks again,
2Lt Patrick Horney
MTACS 28 DET B
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My Commander, LTC William Walski, gave me the care packages that you sent to our Solid Rock Chapel's "General Store." Everything is free and the Solid Rock Chapel and the Soldiers of the 2nd Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment would like to thank you for the outstanding support you have given to both us and the other troops currently deployed in the Middle East. The care packages and toiletries are a welcome addition. We love being able to bless the Soldiers with them.

We had a bmx bike and skateboard show last week. They showed up with the intention of just signing autographs but ended up building ramps and doing a show for us. all within about 3 hours. It provided some entertainment that all of our Soldiers could enjoy together. The weather was great (probably in the high 90's, but it felt cool to us). September is the month when temperature start to drop and get to more civil levels. As I understand it, we will have two months of really nice weather and then the desert floor begins to cool down and it gets cold.

Our mission is going well. We are training Iraqis in Combat Lifesaving, basic Soldiering skills, weapons, etc. Please pray that we are able to encourage them and build them to the place where they are a completely ready force by the time we pull out of Iraq. It's a long road ahead, but I think we're making progress in many ways.

We thank you again for the care packages you sent us.

Thanks again for all your support!!

CH (CPT) Mark D. Worrell, Chaplain
2/13 CAV, 4-1 AD
U.S. Army

Dated 1 October, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to personally thank you for taking your time and money to send this box to my unit and me in Iraq. I just received it tonight. It came in on a convoy from the bigger base. The letter enclosed in the box is dated the 21st of September, which is actually pretty good time for a package to get here. My men and I live on a small patrol base in the city just east of xxxxx (OPSEC), so we don't have a PX or anything like that here. The stuff that you sent to us will definitely go to good use. This is my third trip here to Iraq and every trip that I have done here there are always nice people like you guys who take the time to send us stuff. We greatly appreciate it, and again I want to thank you.

SFC Richard Gonzales
A TRP 5-73 Cav 82nd Airborne
U.S. Army

Dated 29 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank you for the box you recently sent. I would have written sooner, but I was on my R&R. The items you sent were all well received, especially the deodorants and antiperspirants. It just so happens that the PX was short of those items especially, and we had just gotten our replacements for the Marines who rotated at our halfway point. May God bless you in all you do. Thank you. I don't mean to ask for anything, but if you would like to send us cookies at Christmas, we will be so appreciative. Enclosed is a challenge coin we wanted to send you. Thanks for all you do. Below are a few paragraphs for you from my Marines who wanted to express their gratitude.



Sincerely,

GySgt Demetrius A. Crofts
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Hi. I would like to thank you for the boxes you sent. All of the items were very useful - especially the deodorant. I really appreciate that there are people like you out there. Your efforts and time in putting these boxes together will not go unappreciated. No amount of thanks will be enough to show you our gratitude.

Respectfully,
Cpl N. Alvarez
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Greetings Americans,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your donations. It means more to us than you might think that people who we never met are willing to spend their time and money in supporting all of us. For me, knowing that there are still men and women in America who care about us makes everything we do worthwhile. Thank you.

Gratefully,
Cpl Ian Davidson
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Thank you so much for thinking of us. Even though you have busy lives, you still take time out of your days to support us and we are truly grateful. It makes being away from home that much easier. Thank you again.

LCpl Matthew S.
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

We really enjoy the time and effort you put into sending us packages. It helps when we receive items from home.

Thank you,
LCpl Domes
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Thanks a lot. It's nice to know that people are still supporting us over here. You guys really know how to cheer us up!

Sincerely,
LCpl Terrell
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Thank you for the packages we received. it helped a great deal seeing how the PX doesn't always supply the hygiene items we prefer. I also want top show gratitude for the though alone. We all appreciate your support and thank you for your patriotism.

Thank you,
Cpl Edward W. Lester
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 27 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received another package from you. Thanks again. I divided everything into 2 separate boxes and will be sending them out to our teams. I’m sure they’ll love everything you sent us. attached is a photo of us - it's the day shift minus the teams that are spread out.

Thanks again,
SSgt Osvaldo Zaragoza
2nd MEB G-2/3rd Intel Bn
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),




CPT Alison Bergstrom
HHD, 49th Trans MN (MC)
U.S. Army

Dated 24 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Here is a photo of Me (the Female) and my Marines. Thank you once again for your showers of love and support. We appreciate the sincerity in the packages and letters sent. We definitely feel the love. Thank you for the concerns as to the hair products for our female Marines. There has been a lot of hair breakage here in Iraq. I appreciate your swift assistance in the matter. It truly shows you patriotic spirit.

Thank you for the showers of snacks, reading material. I cannot thank you enough. I would like give special thanks to the children that have contributed in this effort and the parents and teachers that have allowed them to express them selves in their drawings, cards and letters. The children are our future and their involvement in this endeavor is just awe-inspiring to me.




Thank you for all you do and be blessed.

V/S
GySgt Kadnaha Judkins
MALS-26 ORD (REIN)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I wanted to let you know we got your care package recently and it was really awesome! I was excited to see that folks from North Carolina sent us stuff since our unit is based out of Greensboro. Thank you so much for thinking of us during our time over here. We appreciate what your organization is doing for us while we are so far from home.

Thanks so much to each of you and God Bless!

Russ Robinson, Army Chaplain Assistant
HHC 422 CA BN
U.S. Army

Dated 24 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to send you a greeting and hope it puts a smile on your faces as you did for me with the care packages you sent us. It's slowly dwindling from "dog days" of summer here. I am taking a small work break to write you this note and to let you know that we'll soon be returning to Texas. I can hardly wait to leave Iraq.

Please keep in touch and thank you,
SPC Kenneth (Ken) Ebacher
C Co., 303 MI BN
U.S. Army

Dated 24 September, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I am HM3 Stambaugh, and I am stationed here in Kuwait. I received a care package from your group a couple weeks ago. On behalf of my entire clinic, Thank you! We really appreciate the time and care you all took to put that box together. It was like Christmas in September over here. Thank you again for everything you are doing for us deployed military members.

Very Respectfully,
HM3 Dannielle Stambaugh
EMF-K
U.S. Navy

Dated 24 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Sorry for the delay but I just wanted to let you know we got your package. My soldiers really appreciate the support everyone back home has been showing. Everything has been happening pretty quickly. Two of our teams are in the process of moving sites which has been our primary focus for the past month and will continue to be our focus until they are settled into their new roles. With our new General taking charge, we have already noticed some big changes in how the mission here in Afghanistan is going.

There really is a push to take a very original look at the way we operate. Our soldiers are getting excited as the end of our tour approaches.

Thanks again for your support,
1LT Kevin White
JLC- 45th Sustainment Brigade, TF Lightning Support
U.S. Army

Dated 22 September, 2009
Bahrain

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My unit and I would like to thank you very much for the care package that we received today.  It was very much Appreciated.

It is such a morale booster for the unit when we receive care packages and that is because of all the volunteers back there in the states.

Here is a picture of our office here, there are just a few of us, but the full unit picture has not been sent out to everyone yet.  I am the one that is on the right, on one knee.

The last box that you sent was liked a lot by everyone here and everyone is very thankful.  If you care to send more items - maybe some books or magazines.  I want to thank you again and if I am ever stationed by you in Connecticut after here I will come to your organization's headquarters building and thank you personally.



Thank you very much again and God Bless,

YN2 Chris Leftwich
USCG PATFORSWA, Unit 3950
U.S. Coast Guard

Dated 14 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to send you a note to thank you for your support of our troops and especially of our unit. We appreciate all of the wonderful care packages you have sent us.

Enclosed is a picture of our unit. Again, thank you for your support. We were deeply grateful and will always remember the caring Americans who put smiles on our faces while we were deployed in Iraq.

Sincerely,
Cpl Joseph J. Garcia
2D MAW
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 12 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for the care packages your organization sends to our Soldiers.  Besides the usual snacks and toiletry items, the cards from back home are greatly appreciated as seeing in writing the support often means more than receiving "things".  When someone in our HQ receives a package of this type, it is usually set outside the office for all passers-by to partake and that is how I received your letter and contact information.  I want everyone to know that their gifts were received and are appreciated.

Congratulations on the success of your organization and again, thank you for all you do.

ATW!

Romans 13: 3-4

MAJ Alex Ramage, MP
Deputy Provost Marshal - FUOPS
CJTF-82 and RC-East; 82nd Airborne Division
U.S. Army

Dated 12 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the package. The troops loved the cards to send home and everything else that was in the box. It is always good to hear from those back home and to know we are thought of by others who do not even know us. Thank you again for sharing your generosity with my troops. You all are true American Heroes to us here - do not ever forget it.

1SG Priscilla A. Swan
464TH QM Company
Michigan Army National Guard

Dated 8 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I received a package from Give2TheTroops addressed to SSG Ortiz. He is no longer in country. Rather than returning the package, it was given to me so I could distribute the items to our Soldiers here. We greatly appreciate the package and your work on behalf of our Soldiers. This has been a tough, dangerous summer and it's great to know that Americans are thinking about us and supporting us.

Our folks are doing great work here which is seldom reflected in the news reports you receive in the States. I was stationed at Fort Bragg, NC before being assigned to 10th Mountain Division in New York. I hope to return to Fort Bragg upon completion of this deployment and my assignment with 10th Mountain. My wife and I greatly enjoyed our three years in North Carolina.

Once again, thanks for your labor of love for our Soldiers. I believe they deserve anything we can do for them!!

Grace be with you!

Chaplain MAJ Brad West
3 BCT Task Force Spartan
U.S. Army

Dated 8 September, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

On behalf of 143rd IN DET LRS (TX ADT 02) in Afghanistan, we would like to say thank you very much for the package we received. We are very blessed to know that there are still Americans who give us their full support and for that we are grateful. It has been an interesting experience being out here , but we are proud to do what we do best and that is to defend this great nation of ours.

Our families thank you as well, it gets very lonely and the days get very long, but knowing that so many people still care about us gives us the motivation to drive on. If there is anything we can send you, please feel free to ask. Again THANK YOU so very much for everything. Your kindness will never go unnoticed. Can you please tell Ms. Marilyn Steele a thank you as well for packaging it for us? We hope you like the group photo we took for Give2TheTroops.



Here is a picture with me and the cards that were included in the package you sent us. We put them on our refrigerator.



Thank you again and God Speed,
SGT Norma Lee Olivares
TX ADT-02
Texas Army National Guard

Dated 2 September, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I want to send my sincere thanks for the care package.  The musical cards were a hit and the supplies are appreciated.  This is an early Christmas Present early for a lot of the guys.  Please take care and know that the 407 ECES HVAC shop is grateful.

MSgt Rector "Rocky" Hartley
407 AEG/ECES/CEOHV
U.S. Air Force

Dated 30 August, 2009
Wyoming, USA

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I received a package from ya'll a little more than two years ago. The next day, I was injured in a bomb blast during a convoy in northern Iraq.

I never did get a chance to say thank you. (I forgot the name of your "organization" after I was blown up.) My friend sent me a picture from Facebook with your web site. I was ecstatic because now I can finally say "THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!!" That package meant the world to me.

I would love to send in a donation as well. I am stationed in Wyoming now and will be getting with your Colorado branch. Thank you again for making my bad day turn good so long ago. Please keep me posted on everything.

Take care and God Bless every one of you!

SSgt Matthew Franklin
332 EMSG (2005 - 2006)
U.S. Air Force

Dated 29 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings!

I hope this letter finds you well and in good health. Thank you for the care packages. I would like to personally thank you for all your support of the Marines and Sailors of MWSS-371. It is because of the care and concern shown by you that we take pride in what we do, and that is to continue the fight for peace, liberty and freedom for the people of Afghanistan.

May God richly bless your lives.

Sincerely,

SgtMaj Major John W. Scott
MWSS-371
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 August, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl Kyle McGann. I am with the United States Marine Corps, currently deployed to Iraq. I would just like to take a minute to thank you for all the work you do with Give2TheTroops. I have received a few packages from you guys, and let me tell you, it was like Christmas in July (literally). All the Marines and Sailors got to benefit from the "bottomless" boxes of so much useful stuff. Believe me when I say everyone had a smile that day.

I would also like to let you know that we will be returning home to Camp Lejeune in the near future, so no more packages are needed.

Again, thank you very much, and have a wonderful evening.

Sincerely,

A Happy Marine thanks to your organization,
Cpl Kyle McGann, SMU Fiscal Clerk
2D Sup Bn Sup Co (-) (REIN)
U.S. Marine Corps

P.S. A note to Mrs. Grant: You are an amazing person, and we greatly appreciate all you do for us.

Semper Fi!

Dated 19 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),



1SG Alex Lashendock
TF Spartan, B Co., 3rd BSTB, 3-10th MTN DIV
U.S. Army

Dated 17 August, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Your care packages have been such a morale boost during our deployment. We are nearing the end and can't say "thank you" enough. Your thank you cards are passed around and the smiles put on soldiers faces lights up the room. To your entire team, God bless and thank you for the wonderful display of Patriotism!

CW4 Bryan Boyd
HHC TF 2-10
U.S. Army

Dated 13 August, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for the packages of goodies and snacks and thanks for not forgetting about us. We loved the Pop Tarts, wet wipes, Little Debbie's Brownies, and cotton candy - it was amazing. Thank you for your support. It really means a lot to us all who serve. it let's us know that we are thought about. Thank you!

God Bless you,

CPT Alison Bergstrom
HHD, 49th Trans MN (MC)
U.S. Army

Dated 12 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My comrades and I wish to express our gratitude for your generous care package. It was great to receive such a gracious gift. It's a wonderful thing you are doing - keep up the good work.

Gratefully,

MSG Albert Ouellette
143rd ESC
Florida Army Reserve

Dated 10 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to take a minute to tell you that we got a package from you guys today out here in Afghanistan and it really brightened everyone’s day! It was fun and encouraging to be able to share what you everyone in my unit. Thank you so much and keep up the good work! It means more than you can know!

Thank you,

2Lt Patrick Horney
MTACS 28 DET B
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you ever so much for your support. I received your care packages today and already many of the items have been taken by Soldiers in my unit and the units that support our operations.

Let me tell you a little about some of the men and women that you are helping out. First. we currently have Soldiers from many different units. Overall there are xxx (OPSEC) Soldiers located in this providence and FOB. Usually the Army is the biggest force in the Camps and FOB's that most Soldiers are deployed to however, we our totally outnumbered by several thousand Marines and Navy SeaBees.

To give you a little idea of the area we live in, well let's say there is no grass, not one blade, no trees, no brush or bushes. Mostly that is due to the fact that there is no water located close to us. As for the image of Soldiers hanging out in a "sandbox", that is a little bit off, instead picture dry dirt and dust, mixed with gravel and stones.

I want to thank everyone who sent a card or letter. It's nice to know a little bit about the people that are being helped out as it is for us to know about the people who are showing us their kindness. Future care packages are always welcomed, with the numbers of people we have here I try not to get into long lists of specifics needs as large amounts of general items, especially snacks.

Thank you ever so much again and please pass my regards on to each and every one on that end.

SSG Phillip John Bliss
100th BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 8 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We (my unit an myself) want to thank you for all the hard work and dedication you have put forth in your efforts to support the troops. Everything is greatly appreciated and will be put to good use! We have been out here for xx (OPSEC) with a while to go yet before our tour ends. There are not many females out here, so most packages we've ever seen have been geared towards the males in our unit. The guys are generous and try to share, but it brought tears to our eyes to have someone actually remember the FEMALES who are out here as well! Thank you!

Living conditions here have improved somewhat since we first got here, but the gratitude, appreciation and overall happiness that you have given us with this care package will always be remembered.

You have lifted our spirits greatly and you are doing a wonderful job. We ALL thank you!

SEMPER FI!

Fondly,
Cpl Jessica Stewart
MASS-1 DET
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 August, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello! I would like to thank you all on behalf of my unit, Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, for the care packages we have received from you. It is people and organizations like Give2TheTroops that show us that we really do have support in what we do.

Thank you so much for everything you have done for us and given us. We will continue to fight until there is no longer a need for fighting, because organizations such as yours are the ones who inspire us to keep our spirits up - knowing that there are more than just our families who care about what we do.

So again, thank you for everything you do. May God bless all of you and your families.

R/S

LCpl Matthew S. Redline
Marine Wing Support Squadron 271
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 7 August, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received your care packages. Thank you for everything that you guys sent. The Marines loved the Big bag of Cheetos Puffs. We also weren't expecting the coffee maker either, so we appreciate that, too. I attached some pictures of Camp xxx (OPSEC) and one of myself and a GD contractor who works with us. That way you get to know who is the person on this side of the world who you are sending care packages to. You mentioned we might receive more packages. We have Marines attached to Battalions out on small FOBs. I go out to visit them once a month. I will definitely take anything else we receive from you to them. I'll also provide pictures of when I deliver them for you to see their living conditions.

People like you are what makes these deployments worth staying in the Corps. It's nice to know that not everyone takes their freedom for granted. Thank you for all the support you give all the troops deployed and/or the wounded. Please let everyone know that we appreciate all the volunteer work they do for every deployed Service member.



Once again THANK YOU for everything your organization sent out to us.

SSgt Osvaldo Zaragoza
2nd MEB G-2/3rd Intel Bn
U.S. Marine Corps

WOW!  I just e-mailed you to introduce my chaplain and myself today and then I go to the mail room and there's six boxes of Slushie mix waiting for me!!!  You are amazing!  Everybody was whining to me because we didn't have any more Slushie mix!  Wow, perfect timing.  Our guys certainly thank you.  You guys really were serious when you said you'd help us with the Slushie machine you sent us!  We have enough mix to last us for a good while now, thank you so much for your help! 



Thank you!

SPC Joel Malin, Chaplain Assistant
HHC, 7th Engineer Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 1 August, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello, I just wanted to let you know that we received a box of goodies from you. The Soldiers really appreciated what you sent, especially the hygiene items. Thanks a lot!



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

Dated 31 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care packages and wanted you to know that the boys here LOVED all the goodies you sent and I especially loved the hospital wrist bands that you were able to send. They will go a long way to improving the functioning of the detention facilities that previous Marines worked so hard at improving while they were working here. Please thank ALL the hundreds of people who sacrificed their time to put smiles on the troops faces over here in Iraq.

As I'm sure you know, the care package "log-train" to Iraq has kinda dried up and we believe that a lot of the focus is now being placed on those troops serving in Afghanistan (rightly so). But there are still thousands of hard working men and women here in Iraq who need your support too, so please continue to think of us when stuffing those boxes.

As I'm sure you've been told hundreds of times, when a box arrives from Give2TheTroops, it ALWAYS seems like Christmas and the special personal touches that are included are often opened with a smile and even a tear.

Saying "thank you" just doesn't seem to say enough to repay your organization for the special kind of support you provide to America's fighting men and women. You deserve any accolade bestowed upon you TEN FOLD and we bless you in our prayers.   Please keep up the fight on the homefront to ensure that these troops feel support from the American people.

In your special way, all of you and G2TT and your dedicated donors and volunteers are very important to the success of the mission and you are doing a lot to make sure that ALL our boys come home safely and making them feel fulfilled in their mission.  

God Bless You,
Respectfully,
1stSgt Mark Wilson
MNF-W Police Transition Team
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I sincerely thank you for the support that you have provided and continue to provide to my Marines and Sailors. We really appreciate the care packages you've sent us while we were here and hope you will continue to support our unit in the future.

Thanks again.

Sincerely,

Capt Tom Watson
Truck Company, II MHG, II MEF
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 July, 2009
Various overseas locations

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

The care package you sent us arrived today and you are out of control... Thank you soooo much!!!! So much delicious goodness in there.... here is a photo of some of us with the banner you sent. Really, you are awesome. THANK YOU so much really..... and the DVDs... how cool!!! Excellent choices too... I'm seriously addicted to granola bars now! :)



Thank you again!

Love,
Sgt Jamie Glickman
Unit withheld
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thanks so much for the care package!!! I received it today and everything in it is awesome. I appreciate your hard work and everything you are doing for troops overseas. I hope it means as much to them as it means to me. Again, thanks. I wish you all the best of luck in everything you do.

SGT Chris VanderLinden
NSC, 34th ID, Unit 117
Minnesota Army National Guard

Dated 21 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I wanted to thank your organization for the awesome care packages you recently sent to my Infantry Squad. It was a great morale booster for them and was greatly appreciated. We are currently a little over halfway complete with our tour here in northern Iraq.

Again, I want to thank you for the time and effort you and your organization spends supporting the U.S. Military. It is organizations like yours, that make us all proud to be American. I have attached photos of the men opening the packages. I apologize for the poor quality of the photos.



Sincerely,

SSG Robert L. Franks, Squad Leader
B CO. 1-8 CAV, 2BCT, 1CAV, 3rd PLT
U.S. Army

Dated 21 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the thoughtful Care package you recently sent.  It is nice to know that even though the World Press is reporting that the War in Iraq is over, people back in the States still realize that there is a considerable presence of US service members still deployed.  Rest assured that we are still here and protecting the newly formed and fragile Iraqi Government.

I come from a family proud to serve America and one that is intent in protecting our freedoms.  My Grandfather, who served in the Pacific Theater in WWII, regaled his grandchildren with stories of his time in the Army Corps of Engineers.  His impact could definitely be seen in us for we all chose to join the service.  My older sister, Jeannie, joined the Army and served two tours in Iraq. My younger brother, David, graduated from Annapolis and spent his first year of service in the Persian Gulf.  Now with my tour in Baghdad, my family has been witness to all that Americans take for granted back home.  We are fighting for a great and noble cause.  We are bringing freedom to those that had none and giving the Iraqi people the ability to choose their own destiny.

None of what we do over here could be done without your support.  Some of you witnessed Americans coming home from the beaches of Normandy and revering them as heroes.  Contrast that to those returning from the Vietnamese Mekong Delta.  We need to know that the Americans we fight for support the objectives we seek to achieve.

Our unit really appreciates everything that you sent.  I don't think that you could have customized a better package.  While our specific unit consists of xxxxx (OPSEC) soldiers, we dispersed and shared everything with our fellow Intelligence Warfighters (over 100+ personnel).  Please send more!

On behalf of all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines that are stationed overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan, I thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers of support.   

Respectfully,

//Signed//
Major Bradley C. Panton, Executive Officer, NGA
MNF-I CJ2 NGA
U.S. Air Force

Dated 17 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I am happy to say that I just received the box that was sent from the North Carolina Branch. I am grateful and truly appreciate all the hard work, love, and prayers that went into putting that box together for us here. I have put it out for the Soldiers so they can get the items that they are in need of. It was a great box and we appreciate the time and effort that each of you put into sending it. Have a wonderful day!

1SG Nora Mosley
1-1 CD 115 BSB HHC
U.S. Army

Dated 16 July, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received two gigantic boxes yesterday from you....the guys were ecstatic. Thanks! You are Great!!!!

1stLt Geoff Terman
2-77 FA (Steel Warriors)
U.S. Army

Dated 15 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Today completes xx (OPSEC) out of the xxx (OPSEC) months for us in Iraq. We have received your package and are very grateful.  Nothing lifts a soldier's morale more than receiving a package in Iraq from home (USA). I wish you can see how the excited soldiers gather around and wait to see what's in the box.
 
I am representing xx (OPSEC) unique teams here training and evaluating an Iraqi unit that we are collocated with. We train, evaluate, mentor, dine and are bedded down at an actual Iraqi army post. We are out in Iraq without the support of a US conventional unit. Our efforts will allow US military units to finally go home once Iraq as a nation is prepared to control their various problems.
 
Nothing you sent will go to waste.  The box was empty within minutes.  Thanks again.
 
MSG Raul Rivera
and the Soldiers from 17TH IA DIV MiTT
U.S. Army

Dated 14 July, 2009
Fort Bragg, North Carolina

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to take a moment to offer my sincere thanks to your organization for the assistance and supplies that you helped support us with.  These supplies will go a long way, and the Troopers over in Iraq will appreciate them, not to mention the fact that there are people back in the States thinking about them.  We have already mailed most of it overseas, and continue to push out more every time we make a shipment.  Thank you for this kind support.  It means a lot to all of us in this unit.

CPT Jon P. Somssich, Commander, Rear Detachment
1-319th AFAR
U.S. Army

Dated 10 July, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so very much for the packages you have sent to my soldiers and me! We really appreciate every single item that you send and nothing goes to waste.  Even though most places in Iraq are built up by now, it's still nice to have a package come from home supplying us with snacks, toiletries, and other miscellaneous comfort items. 

Homeland support is a major morale booster for all of the soldiers currently serving in this war and I can honestly say your support for 5-73 CAV, 3BCT, 82nd ABN has lifted many spirits in these past months.  I hope that other soldiers throughout OIF and OEF alike have the same support structure that we are so blessed to have.  My hat is off to you!  Airborne!  All the way!

SSG Michael Johnston
HHT 5-73 CAV (RECON), 82nd ABN DIV
U.S. Army

Thank you for your kindness and generosity!  We truly appreciate the items and look forward to receiving items in the future.  

V/R,
MAJ LaShaunda R. Jackson, MI
"Lightning Support 2", JLC-J2, Task Force Lightning Support
U.S. Army

Wow!  Thanks for the golf clubs and balls.  We have a very crude course here.  It might improve my game.  I’ll pass them on to the next rotation.

Many thanks,

Chief John McAllister (CW3)
TF Falcon G3 KFOR 11
California Army National Guard

I’m the commander of Charlie Company, 1-505 Parachute Infantry Regiment.  Kristen Creel, the leader of our Family Readiness Group, told me about the hard work you did to gather awesome packages of supplies for Kristen to send to Iraq.  Thanks so much!

Right now, we are at a very small Joint Security Station without much in the way of support or comfort items.  We don’t have PX or a big chow hall, and we’re always looking for items like the ones ou sent.  Honestly, we don’t have any other way to get them!  When the packages arrive, I will be sure to take some pictures of our paratroopers opening and using the packages and email them to you.

Thanks again for all you do – God Bless – Airborne!  All the Way!

Sincerely,

CPT Mike Thompson, IN CDR
C/1 505 PIR 82 ABN
U.S. Army Reserve

We in E company 2/8 CAV BN still appreciate your support.  As you know, June 30, 2009 will be a transition of security.  The Iraqi forces will be taking all security operations and we will just be the support.  New rules apply now as we will not be leading operations but supporting them.  Thank you for everything and keep us in your prayers.

SFC Salomon Guerra
E Co 2/8 CAV BN 1 BCT, 1st CAVALRY DIVISION
U.S. Army

Dated 25 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),



Capt Thomas J. Watson
II MHG, II MEF, Truck Company, HQ Plt
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your care packages - thank you!  You guys are awesome.

Thank you so much for the thoughts, time, and effort all of you volunteers donated for our benefit.

I read Andi's letter and the other letters enclosed. It's nice to know we've still got support from the home front.

Thanks again, and please remember that your efforts DO make a difference to all of us here.

Sincerely,

Capt Michael 'Pucker' Woodard
MNF-W G-3 Air Planner
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I hope that you are in the best of spirits as you continue to give us the support out here in the front lines. My replacement finally came in after our long toil over here, and I will be heading home. I turned over the Frozen Ice Drink Machine you sent us and all the troops are really grateful for having this in the chapel office. Thank you. I will ensure has your contact information for you and the whole group from G2TT.

Again, I cannot put everything in words how thankful the 14th Engineer Battalion is for all that you do. I know that you will give the same support to the 7th Engineer Battalion while they will spend their whole year here in Iraq. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

Sincerely,

CH (CPT) Peter P. Aleria, Chaplain
14th Engineer Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 19 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Greetings from Iraq.  I just wanted to say thank you for your letter and for the care package that you sent to my platoon.  We really appreciate it a lot.  Well, let me tell you a little bit about my platoon and how we are living over here.  My platoon is a motorized platoon.  This means that I have soldiers that ordinarily would ride on a tank and we also have infantrymen.  Our main mission here in Iraq is to aid the Iraqi Police in their day to day operations so that once American forces pull out of Iraq they will be able to handle it on their own, which is what we all want. 

We are currently living at Forward Operating Base "Garry Owen".  It is located in the XXXXXXX (OPSEC) Province in the town of XXXXXXX (OPSEC).  It is far from the conditions that they have available in Baghdad with all of the Burger Kings, coffee shops, and Smoothie bars.  We have none of that.  We have a dining facility which serves breakfast and dinner. Lunch is still MRE's (Meals Ready to Eat) or how we tend to call them, Meals Rejected by Ethiopians, ha ha ha.  Just kidding they aren't that bad, but everyone seems to be losing a lot of of weight.  Hmmmm, I wonder why. 

We also have a troop store but supplies are very limited.  We still live in tents that are air conditioned but they still get kind of warm due to the current 120 degree temperatures.  We also have an internet café, an AT&T call center, and a few Iraqi shops that sell odds and ends but nothing high quality ... mostly bootleg DVDs. 

Our snail mail here takes some time to come in and go out.  We don’t have a permanent airfield and the one that we have is only active on two days of the week.  So everyone has to compete for seats and space for their loads coming in and out.  But the mail will still go out, just might take it a while.

Once again, Thank you for all of your support and prayers and everything that you do for soldiers around the world.   

Sincerely,
SFC Jose M. Sanchez, Comanche Warpig 7
C Co., 4-6 IN, 4th BCT, 1AD
U.S. Army

Dated June, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),





COL Jon K. Buonerba
AMC 401st AFSB
U.S. Army

Dated 16 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the package.  I shared with everyone!  Thank you!  Some days it’s hard to believe that anyone cares, especially out here.  Your package cheered up everyone in my office.  We were having a rough day in the office.  Your package did just the trick.  You kind words of support are so encouraging.  I know we may be “fobbits”  but it’s very stressful in the office all day long.  That makes me sound like a goob, but it’s the truth.  I was able to go on the road for a couple weeks and it was a nice change of scenery, literally. 

Thank you again!  I’m just sorry it has taken me so long to respond.  I hope you’ll be able to forgive me.  Please take care and God bless you all!

Always,
SPC Jodie Gollihugh
HHC 1 BSTB 1 BCT 1 CD
U.S. Army

Dated 16 June, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am a Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion and we received one of the "Give2TheTroops" packages. Thank you very much for sending it. It is always nice for us to get a taste of home when we get packages filled with the treats we can't get out here.

Thank you for your support and good wishes!

Take care,

Sgt Kate Steinke
H&S Co., 2nd Supply Bn, Unit 73717
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated June, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the soldiers, Brigade Commander, Company Commanders, FRG Advisor, A and B Co, HHC FRG and FRSA (Family Readiness Support Assistant) of 1st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, we thank you for your support to the Devil Strike Brigade.  The items you donated to the 1st BSTB were packed into the military containers and shipped forward overseas, and will be waiting for the soldiers.  The contributions you donated are going to bring a piece of home to the soldiers.  Please take pride in the fact that through your generosity you are doing something good for our troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Crystal Cavalier, Family Readiness Support Assistant
1 BSTB, 1 BCT, 82nd Division
8436 Graves Street Stop A, Fort Bragg, NC 28310
U.S. Army

Dated 4 June, 2009
Ft Bragg, North Carolina

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My name is Chaplain Light Shin from 4-73rd CAV unit.  I just wanted to express my deep gratitude for all the magazines, books, and Bibles you sent us.  Thank you so much for your support to our troops.  I sincerely pray that God will bless your kind, caring, giving, and sacrificial heart.  Again, thank you!

Blessings,

CH Light Shin
HHT / 4-73rd CAV
Keerans Rd. Ft Bragg, NC 28310
U.S. Army

I would like to thank you for the care package you sent us!  It is such a morale booster when we get mail over here.  Please thank everyone who makes these care packages possible. 

On behalf of all the soldiers, thank you and God bless,

SPC Mandy Priddy
A Company 146th ESB
Florida Army National Guard

Dated 22 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all you have done to support us while deployed! My Soldiers and I appreciate the many items your organization has sent us. But most of all, we feel a sense of pride in what we are doing. In fact, GIVE2THETROOPS represents all of the many reasons we do what we do - your love, thoughtfulness and compassion has boosted our morale and we all wanted to say, "thanks".

V/R
SFC Eric Ryals
HHT 1-9 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 22 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

This may come a few years too late but I wanted to say thank you to Give2TheTroops for your help to my team while in Iraq from 2004-2005.  Every time a package from y’all arrived, it was a real pleasure and certainly brightened our days. I hope you can pardon the late nature of this letter but the kindness and caring that your group has shown those who are on the front lines defending freedom is invaluable.  Thank you for the support. My wife and I are also glad to know that Andi's husband is, once again, back from being overseas.  We hope that he, and everyone else serving, will find a most deserved welcome home.  

Thank you again for everything you did for us and I hope you can accept my apology with this coming a few years too late.

SSG Larry (and Lori) Provost
403rd Civil Affairs BN
U.S. Army

Dated 20 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is SSgt Joey M. Davis. I used to work at the I&I staff in Plainville, Connecticut.

I have volunteered at several of your events. I hope you remember me and I hope this letter finds everyone well!

I just received 2 large care packages from your organization. I cannot say thank you enough. Your organization has touched several of my Marines personally - because they don't receive mail from home.

For us to receive the batteries for our GPs, NVGs and personal electronic equipment made our day, Thank you for a smattering of stuff. I have a LOT of Marines and there was something for everyone. We also received cards from the Brownie (or possibly Girl Scout) troop 49. The cards were really cute. And the Marines were touched that so many people care.

Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You do really make a difference in our days over here by lifting up our morale and providing us with a little taste of home.

I know the time that all of your volunteers spend away from your families to attend packing parties and collect the goods to send to us. So thank you very much.

We appreciate the time spent and the great effort involved.

It's hot out here and lots and lots of dust storms. Other than that we are doing great. Again thank you for everything you all have sent. It's a great staff morale booster.

Your friend,

SSgt Joey Davis, Weapons Platoon Sergeant
3rd LAR BN, Dragon Company
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your generous contributions to me and the Marines who I serve with. The package you sent us is very much appreciated. We will be here for quite some time and any future care packages you wish to send us would be very welcome!

Again, THANKS!

God Bless,
MSgt Michael R. Shepherd
II MEF FWD G-1
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 14 May, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for your program.  It means a lot!  - SGT Tripses

Thank you for the snacks, books, magazines and supplies.  Your support means a lot!  - Capt Bray

Thanks so much for the support you give.  It really means a lot.  – MAJ Jason Nunnory

I appreciate your support through action.  – SGT Rowlison, Bernadette

Thank you for your support.  It really means a lot!  - SGT Brevard

CJTF 101, CJ3 Space
U.S. Army

Dated 14 May, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

The package you sent us arrived today, 14 MAY 09. My other Soldiers loved everything. It was like Christmas in May. We are in an old building the Russian Army occupied when they were here.

Thank you so much again, we appreciate the support!! Hope the weather is nice in beautiful NC, it is cooler today (85), but not as dusty as IRAQ, we can't complain too much!! Here are a few photos I took of the sunrise in Afghanistan. You can see the snow capped mountains in the distance. It's a very beautiful area, but not a safe one.



Thank you again!

SFC Douglass Tritt, Army Reserve Career Counselor
CJTF-101
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 13 May, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you for the package we received today, the 13th of May.  We have been pulling anywhere between 14 and 16 hour days, and much of the time I am unable to get over to the Moral Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tent. 

Thank you so much for the items including the socks and towels.  I personally look forward to the packages you send because they are always filled with things that lift my soldiers’ spirits.  So thank you very much for your generosity.  They saw the candy and once again, it was like a pack of wolves digging through the box.  I can’t explain soldiers that only see candy every once in a while.  It is a real morale booster for them.  Thanks again so much for what you are doing for the soldiers over here and please know that whatever you send will be put to good use.

So, what can I tell you about our unit?  I’m sure you understand that many of the things that are going on over here are classified and I cannot tell you about them, but when you watch the news take a good look when they talk about Pakistan; because it is really heating up and about 500,000 displaced people are moving into Afghanistan.  So, guess who is responsible for helping these people out?  That’s right, America to the aid once again because that’s what we do.  Some good news is that the Afghanistan elections are coming up within the next few months and that is truly progress.  So, if nothing else, at least the people here have some hope as they will have a chance to choose their next leader.

Well, I will close by saying that you are truly some of the best Americans out there, and thank you for thinking of the soldiers over here.  You are great people and you are in our thoughts and prayers daily.  Best wishes to you and your families.  Thanks again and we hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

CPT Jonathan Carver
HSC 563D ASB, TF Fighting
U.S. Army

Dated 13 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much for the package from Give2TheTroops.  My team and I received the package today and surely enjoyed all the items inside.  It is always comforting to know that people do appreciate what we are trying to do over here.  For TPT 6C12, thank you very much. 

SGT Rhett S. Hillard, Team Leader
TPT 6C12
U.S. Army

Dated 11 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings from sunny Iraq! It was great to hear from you all again! I want to thank you for the HUGE care package that my unit mates and I received today. How thoughtful of you to send us such loving, caring support. I am well and safe. It is busy here as usual and torrid. I am busy with my 12-hour/day job and in my spare time, I am reading reading. It's a desk job and kind of boring but someone has to do it, right?

Well, I must close this letter. Please keep in touch and thank you again.

May God bless you always,

Ken

SPC Kenneth Ebacher
C Co., 303 MI BN
U.S. Army

Dated 10 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you very much for the care package. I really appreciate it. Receiving care packages is great. It's like receiving a little bit from home. The drawings are awesome, I really enjoyed them along with the other Soldiers. I would like to thank everybody for their support and their volunteer work that they do for us. I would like to ask if you can include dry fruit in the next care package along with any kind of nuts, and shaving cream.

Once again, thanks for your support. It is greatly appreciated.

v/r
SGT Natalia Castro, ADMIN NCO
E FSC 2-8 CAV, 1BCT, 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 5 May, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am excited that May is here. I am going on leave soon. It will be xxx (OPSEC) months since I left and it will be a few more months when I return from leave. The good thing is that while the daily life is less than appealing, there is difference made as each unit rotate outs - there has to be. So, we will look back on our time in Iraq and see positive improvements, sustainable by the Iraqis. I will never in my life detract from the efforts of our armed forces here or anywhere else.

Thank you all for the support. And knowing that my wife and 2 daughters, who are my measures of happiness, are supported by you is priceless.

Bill

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

Dated 1 May, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

It’s Captain Carver and I just wanted to write back and sincerely say thank you for the package that we received today, the 1st day of May.  Things are really beginning to heat up now and we see action nearly every day somewhere in the country.  I am very blessed to have a great group of hard working guys.  I am a helicopter pilot and Operations Officer in xxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan and just wanted to personally write and say thanks for your support.  We are truly a team and work hard every day to ensure that we pick each other up when we get down and continue to drive on.  I cannot thank you enough and I wish your organization the very best.

I just want to say thanks again for the care package and that everything you send will be put to good use.  So thank again to Give2TheTroops, and we truly do look forward to your packages.  I will continue to stay in touch and I hope to talk to you soon.  Best wishes, and thank you again for your support.  God bless.

CPT Jonathan Carver
HSC 563D ASB
U.S. Army

Dated 29 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for the box of goodies.  We all enjoyed it very much.  It is great to be able to open something from back home that’s kind of like Christmas.

Thank you,

SPC Patrick Yonak
E Co. 3/8 Cav
U.S. Army

Dated 28 April, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for what you do. As I am sure you've been told before, the support we receive from people like you is much appreciated. Everybody enjoyed the large care package you sent us. One of the hardest things for us to find is healthy snacks. If you could please include something healthy in any subsequent boxes, it would mean a lot. Anything that has to do with entertainment and helping us pass time would also be nice.

Thanks again and Semper Fi.

MSgt Justin C. Elmore
MWHS-2 DET A
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 April, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Carolyn Blakeney and I would like to send my deepest thanks and gratitude for the care package that you sent via SgtMaj Scott. It is the selfless and kind acts from people such as you that give a morale boost to those so far from home.

It is always nice to get something, especially for those troops who have yet to receive anything from home.

The food items and letters & cards from the kids you sent were much appreciated and will be enjoyed. I am the Company Commander for Engineer Operations Company. With our Marines' busy schedule, it is always a pleasant surprise to return for the day and see something waiting for them.

The items you sent were dispersed among our marines and they were very thankful.

To know that you took the time out of your very busy schedules to do a kind act means a lot to us. It is nice to know that there are those back home who support us and are thinking of us.

Again, thank you for your contributions and taking the time to think of those of us overseas. Thanks also to those who provided for and packed the care package you sent us.

Please see below the letter one of my Marines LCpl Basoco wrote.

Thank you,

Lt Carolyn Blakeney
MWSS-371, EOPS
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My unit has received a very heavy care package from your organization today. You have no idea how thrilled everybody is. My chief said, "I don't have to buy tooth paste and shampoo anymore, I almost ran out". Thank you so much for the letters, the comic books, the CD's, cookies, shampoo, etc.. We are forever grateful and please know that little things like this relieves so much stress and brings us together.

We appreciate the support.

HM Thato E. Manyothwane
2nd Supply Battalion (MEDLOG CO)
U.S. Navy

Dated 22 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I recently received the care package you sent to my unit. I wanted to thank all of you and the volunteers and donors who helped make this, and all the other care packages you send, happen. There isn't a thing inside the box that wasn't handy. All the protein shakes can easily be poured into bottles, and the protein bars and other energy bars fit easily into our packs.

Of the several types of tea you sent, I can not say enough. It was even special to see some of the different candy bars. Again, all of the Marines of the II MEF Personal Security Detachment and I thank all of you.

Respectfully,

GySgt Demetrius A. Crofts
II MHG/MEF PSD
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

SFC Gregory Tenore here writing to you. I received a very large & heavy box from you today. 

My soldiers and I really appreciate all you have and will do to support us. 

I enjoyed the letters from the children, especially the ones from the synchronized swim team. Please tell "Jaclyn" that I'm sure I will love synchronized swimming once I try it. 

Please find the attached photo of myself and my soldiers, and once again, a heartfelt thank you for all you do.



V/R
SFC Gregory Tenore, NCOIC
1CD, Terrain Team, A Co., DSTB, 1CD (DIV ENG)
U.S. Army

Dated 20 April, 2009
United Arab Emirates

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On Behalf of the kennels and I we just want to say thanks for the treats you guys sent to us. We received them today in the morning. We could use 4 more retractable leashes if you have any to spare. Well, thanks again and for showing your support.


SrA Pacual Gutierrez
Military Working Dog Section, 380 ESFS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 20 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My Marines and I received a package today from you all. Thank you so much. It's nice to know that people have not forgotten about us.

The items received were distributed to all the Marines and brought a lot of smiles to their faces. Thank you for all you do, it makes a big difference.

Semper Fidelis.

Respectfully,

GySgt Kevin Kenny
MACS-2 Det-Bravo
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hey this is PFC Barley and I wanted to thank you for the the boxes you sent. We got two care packages from you and everybody was glad to see that people care that much about us. Tell the students that everyone that we said, "hey" and we enjoy playing with the basketball. We play every Sunday on our half of days. We want to thank you for the hygiene stuff too. It comes real handy when they run of of things at the PX. But we really want to thank ya'll for what you are doing.    

Thanks,
PFC Darius Barley and B Co 2STB 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 15 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We received your package some time ago, but I am just now getting time to thank you for it.  Your prayers and sentiments mean a lot to us over here. Thank you for the wonderful package you sent - folks over here loved it.  We particularly appreciate knowing folks back home care.  Thanks again for what you do.

MAJ Mark Dotson
HHC 3/82 ABN Div
U.S. Army

Dated 10 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your generosity. The care packages you sent us were amazing and greatly improved the mood around the unit. Even more amazing is how fast the goodies were snatched up! The personalized cards were great. It really does help to know how much support we have back home!

Thanks,
2Lt Margaret Seymour
MAG 26, Unit 77121
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 9 April, 2009
Iraq

I loved the socks, cookies, coffee, beer nuts, tuna (awesome), the fan – all of it I need!  Thanks so much for thinking of me. 

Thank you,

Connie Bloda
Unit 3-C
U.S. Army

Dated 8 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to pass along a sincere thank you to your organization, Give2TheTroops, for the care packages we received here at FOB Warrior in Kirkuk, Iraq. The troops appreciated them very much. Thank you for your kindness, generosity and for all of your continued support. I attached a picture of our deployed 4-man team. Thanks again and God bless.



v/r

MSgt Timothy N. Storer, NCOIC
Chapel Operations
U.S. Air Force

Dated 8 April, 2009

Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Words can't describe how everyone felt when they received all the goodies that the donors and volunteers from Give2TheTroops sent us here. I personally wanted to thank every single one of you for all the hard work and dedication you guys are doing. Everyone enjoyed all the stuff that was sent to us and they asked me to send our thanks to all of you guys for the support you're providing us.

Thank you

Very Respectfully,
 
LCpl Karan Singh Gill
MNF-W, G4 Logistics
U.S. Marine Corps

Received 6 April, 2009

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),





SFC Edwin A. Lopez
HHC, 146th ESB
Florida Army National Guard

Dated 5 April, 2009

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just wanted to say thank you again for all the care packages you sent us both times while we were deployed. Hope you like the attached photo. We wanted to show our support of your organization. Some of us are coming to help at your packing parties.



Love,
Missy

TSgt Melissa A. Letizio
Services
Connecticut Air National Guard

Dated 4 April, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi.

I have received your package today and I am really thankful. My unit really enjoyed the package, especially the Easter peeps and the chips. A little about myself: I am originally from Brownsville, Texas and I am 24-years-old. I am of Mexican descent. I have been in the Marines for about 6 years and I have completed 3 tours in Iraq. This is my first time in Afghanistan. (My fourth deployment). Our deployment is a full year and so far, it's been a good deployment. Our unit is from Hawaii and I love it there.

Thank you so much for the package.

Sgt Milton D. Nieto
SPMAGTF-A S6
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks a ton from the 1460th! We just received a box from your organization. Thanks for the goodies. It definitely turned some frowns upside down. We can't wait until another one of your surprise boxes arrives. The box didn't have My Unit on it. I forgot to tell you when I signed up. It's the 1460th and I just so happened to see the box in the post office with no unit number on it. I was really lucky to have seen it!  Thanks a ton.

SPC Kent A. Eshelman
1460 Transportation Company
Michigan Army National Guard

Dated 3 April, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package that you sent to my Soldiers. The contents were greatly appreciated. The razors are a Godsend. Please hold off on any further packages until I send you an address update as we are going to relocating.

Thanks once again,

SFC David Reeves
201st RSIC-C, SECFOR, USA Blackhorse
Illinois Army National Guard

Dated 2 April, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

SGT Mirielle A. Douglas, Night OPS NCOIC
305th QM CO.
U.S. Army

Dated 31 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your package.  It was wonderful.  Everyone in the G-4 office truly appreciates your package as everyone in the G-4 was able to enjoy items in your package.  I can't say thank you enough.

Major Ken Sheets
25 STB, 25 ID G-4
U.S. Army

Dated 29 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all you have done for our Troops and for the children of Afghanistan.  Today we received another Give To The Troops box and it was filled with toys, candy and school supplies which we will give to the kids.  We, US Troops and Afghan kids cannot thank you and all of your dedicated supporters enough for all the time, effort and love you have put into your support for us.  We see it in every box you have sent us.  We see it in the cards included in the boxes. 

We KNOW you care and it is that support that keeps us going forward.  As I wind down my two-year tour, and get ready to re-deloy in May, I express my sincere gratitude for all the support you have provided.  You kept sending supplies even when we did not ask for them.  You cared not only about the Troops but also about the future of Afghanistan - the children. 

The little Afghan girl in the last photo is wearing the pink flip-flops you sent.

May God Bless you and all of your support structure.







Sincerely,

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

Dated 27 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

On behalf of the Marines in our small Border Transition Team here in xxx (OPSEC), Iraq, I want to sincerely thank you for the wonderful care packages that you were directly responsible for.  I am always humbled by the selfless acts of kindness that have been shown to us from back home.  Thank you for your encouraging words and kind comments – may God truly bless you and your families.  Have a wonderful spring!

Semper Fidelis,
Capt Michael S. McDowell
BTT 4221 Det A
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you! We are grateful for all the cards, letters, hygiene stuff, cookies, and other items. Please let all your group know if it was not for them, then we would not be able to keep our heads up as high as we do today. We really look forward to getting the boxes and then reading and passing around the letters and cards.

Again God bless and thank you,
1LT Eric Kuyper
337th Signal Company, Task Force Warrior
U.S. Army

Dated 25 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the large packages. I received them last week, and have been handing out the contents since then. The Girl Scout cookies are always a huge success, and they go as quickly as I pass them out. Everyone here says thank you and truly appreciates your kindness.

Things here are going fine. There seems to be a good mix of frustrating days and rewarding days.

Thank you again for your continued support. I know that you absolutely know how much it means, but we do appreciate it.

I will talk to you later.

Bill

CPT William E. Arendt
B/403 CA BN
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 25 March, 2009
Djibouti, Africa

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I wish to thank all the volunteers who donated items for the care package I received. My coworkers and I really appreciate everyone's thoughtfulness. Please pass along our thanks to all who donated and volunteered. Also thank you for your gift of giving, prayers and support.

Sincerely
MSgt Cordelia Dorsey, Chief of Supply
449 AEG
U.S. Air Force

Dated 24 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hey! This is PFC Barley, Darius. I wanted to thank you for the care packages you sent. We got two of them and everybody was glad to see that people care so much about us. Tell the students who wrote us that everyone said hello and we enjoy playing with the basketball you sent. We play every Sunday on our half of days. We want to thank you for the hygiene stuff, too. It comes in handy when they run of of things at the PX. But we really want to thank ya'll for what you are doing.

PFC Darius Barley and B Co 2STB 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 23 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to thank you for the 3 large boxes that my unit and I have received form your organization. They were all greatly
appreciated. Thanks for everything!

PVT David Van Nuys
B Co. 277 ASB
U.S. Army

Dated 23 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very much for your great work. Your organization members are great Americans! My Soldiers appreciate the support they receive from your organization. As you know being away from home can be very difficult for many young Soldiers. The care packages they receive remind them that our fellow countrymen appreciate their sacrifices.

Again, thank you for what you are doing. Keep up the good work!

Attached is a photo of our Command Group after a day of volleyball. Believe it or not we actually get to enjoy a relaxing day of sports every now and then.

v/r

CW5 Raymond A. (Tony) Quiñones, Command Chief Warrant Officer
2-4 Avn Regt. (GSAB), Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th ID, MND-B
U.S. Army

Dated 21 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hi. My name is SPC Velez and I received a box from you. I wanted to thank you very much for taking time and sending me a box, it is truly appreciated to receive such an act of kindness from all of you.

Thanks!

SPC Perla Velez
317th Maintenance Company
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 20 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Sergeant Major Rich Magnum and I just received a large care package from your organization.

It was a pleasure to read your letter about where you started out and where you are now. I'm sure you all already know this, but the reason we do what we do is for people like you. It makes us proud to be Americans!

I am originally from New York (Brooklyn) and I lost a cousin in the World Trade Center. I was very fortunate. I could have lost up to 10 family/friends that day.

I am a career National Guardsman serving as an Infantryman. This is my third deployment since 9/11. I have missed 50% of my youngest daughters' birthdays due to being deployed. I am not complaining, I love my country and I am proud to serve in any capacity I can.

Attached is a photo of the Maryland Army National Guard team I deployed with to Afghanistan. Unfortunately, when we arrived in theater they split my team up in six different directions. Your package was very much appreciated and if you would like to send more, we would be happy to take them off your hands .

I will try to send a picture of the current team in the near future.

Thank you for taking care of our Soldiers.

God bless your staff and God Bless America.



Sincerely,

SGM Richard J. Magnum, CSM Mentor
3/3, 203 Corps
Maryland Army National Guard

Dated 19 March, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to express heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the 1109th Connecticut AVCRAD a.k.a TF AVCRAD over here in Kuwait. It has been a while since I got a chance to send a thanks. I was on a mission when your boxes arrived, but recently went to every job location on the base so every troop was able to enjoy something of need from your care packages.

On behalf of our unit, I express my sincerest thanks. These care packages have a huge impact on our morale. Maybe that's not immediately known stateside, but here the lift is instantaneous. Our mission is winding down and soon we'll be back home, but the generosity of your organization made the stay here more gratifying knowing that those back home support us this way.

We are extremely grateful for your benevolence, and appreciate the items G2TT provides!

Sincere Regards,

SSG Donald Boisvert, Acft. Engine Inspector
TF AVCRAD
Army National Guard - Unit home: Groton, Connecticut

Dated 19 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Just a quick note to say, "Thank You!" for the care package we recently received from y'all. We really appreciate your generous support of our Soldiers!

God bless,
CH (CPT) Shay L. D. Worthy
163d Military Intelligence
U.S. Army

Dated 19 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to take a few minutes to say thank you for the wonderful care package you provided.  Myself and the others in my shop enjoyed everything.  What a wonderful thing you are doing.

Always,
YN1 Shanette Parsons
US NSE, HQ 1 SAF (DATES)
U.S. Navy

Dated 18 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Just a note to let you know that both boxes you sent us arrived undamaged, and you weren't joking about them being heavy! I plan on distributing everything to the platoons this afternoon and will take a few photos to send you. I also have a Certificate of Appreciation for the Texas Branch of Give2TheTroops and also a Company T-shirt for Rick. I will get them sent out in the next day or two. I did open the boxes up and the items and food that were packed is perfect!

I can't thank your organization enough for the hard work and support you are providing to the Armed Forces. I will send you some photos via e-mail within the next days and get the mentioned items in the mail also.

God be with you and keep you.

1SG Sean W. Luse
515th En Co (Sapper)
U.S. Army

Dated 18 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much! I received your care package a few days ago and we were very happy. My guys loved the Caribou coffee! I think you have an awesome thing going over there and you make a enormous impact on the soldiers. We are very grateful and love the "little piece of home" you guys provide.

Thank you again and I hope to hear from you soon.

P.S. Send more Caribou coffee if you can!! LOL.

Thanks,
SGT Michael Clayton
E FSC 215th BSB 1-12 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 17 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

I got your 4 care packages today. Three of them contained food and hygiene stuff and 1 with Trivia Pursuit SNL edition, football, books, a coffee maker, a coffee grinder and coffee stuff.  Thank you for all the goodies, everyone ripped through the boxes like there was money in the bottom of the boxes. 

My 1st Sergeant and BC really love the coffee maker and grinder. As soon as I pulled it out, the BC had the grinder plugged in and grinding away.  Thank you for everything you do to help us out while we are over here, it really helps us out when we get to see stuff from home.  

From a Soldier who serves his country, to an organization which loves their country, I thank you.

SGT Seth Clines
Bravo Btry 5/82 FA 1st CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 14 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the amazing care package you sent to my flight.  You seemed to know exactly what we needed and missed.  I hope you have reached your goal of number of care packages.  They are really appreciated over here - more than you will ever know.  Thanks again on behalf of the 506 Escorts.

SSgt Valerie Perkinson
506 Escorts/FP
U.S. Air Force

Dated 14 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the big box of magazines, toiletries and snacks. They were a hit! We haven't received any sizable packages like that since Christmas. We have a freebie shelf in our Morale room and now the care package inventory overstock has reached critical mass. We re-route many items to the Iraqi people through our Civil Affairs units. Your contributions definitely show your generosity in thinking of us at times besides the holidays.

My base back "home" is in Germany, where I could be with my lovely wife and newborn daughter who was born a little over a month ago. She was our first and I was there for it and it was a wonderful thing. God has blessed me with a good wife and beautiful daughter.

Again, thank you for the great care package and I am sure that I speak for all of the troops when I say that.

Sincerely yours,

SGT Gary Miles, Chaplain Assistant
HHC 3-159 ARB
APO AE 09391

Dated 14 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

OMG!!! WOW!!! We received three boxes yesterday. Myself and my crew can't thank you enough. I am speechless. Everything in those boxes was right on and excited someone if not multiple soldiers. It was like watching kids at Christmas. I can't begin to tell you all how thankful my team is. You nailed it!!! Tell your crew we are ever thankful.

God Bless you,

Dave

WO1 David R. Bruce
10th CAB HHC
U.S. Army

Dated 13 March, 2009
Ft Bragg, North Carolina

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

It was great meeting you on Sat. Feb. 21st.   Thank you for letting our FRG take home a huge bounty of Hallmark goodies.  We are doing spouse care packages with those items.  I appreciate all you do for soldiers and their families.

Thanks again,

Julie Machak, FRG Leader
Golf FSC 82nd BSB
95 Gloucester Court
Cameron, NC 28326

Dated 13 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for the stuff you sent us.  My name is PFC Difilippantonio and I am currently deployed to Iraq with Charlie Medical Company.  I am originally from Emmaus, PA.  We work long hours every day and still do our physical training as well.  On my down time I like to sleep, clean my weapon, and write letters back home.  So if any of you want to ever send me a letter, go for it.  I will definitely write you back as soon as I get your letter. 

Thank you again,

PFC Difilippantonio
CMC 215th BSB 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to thank you for the care package that you sent to us in Iraq. Your organization is a wonderful way of connecting caring citizens with the Soldiers serving so far from home.

Every package we receive is shared in our section. Everyone found something unique and appealing in your large box that you sent us. On behalf of our troops, we wanted to extend our appreciation and simply say thanks for all you do for the troops.

Sincerely,

Greg Binford
HHC 325 BSB (SPO)
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

I just wanted to say thank you so much for the care packages that you sent to me here in Iraq.  I only expected to receive a few items here and there due to the fact that we have a very small PX here.

To my surprise, I opened the two huge boxes of items and was shocked!! I called the other Soldiers that I had in mind when I signed up on your web site and told them they needed to come to my office fast because we received goodies!! Then the fact that you sent dog supplies was great also. 

I saw there was a spot on your form for dogs to receive care packages and I thought .... wow what about that dog that I saw a few days ago?  I was walking to my CHU and I saw a beautiful all black German Shepherd playing in the gravel lot. His master and I began talking and I noticed that he had no tail! I asked what happened and he said the dog was playing as a puppy slipped and ran into a door and his tail hit the doorway and broke it.

WOW!!! From that day on I said I would just get him a little bone or something ... nothing too fancy! Well when I received the package I was like, "he is going to love this!" So once again.. thank you very much.
God Bless.


SGT Mirielle A. Douglas, Night OPS NCOIC
305th QM CO.
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU FOR YOUR AWESOME CARE PACKAGES!

Hi. I'm Sergeant Michael Sanders. I would just like to say on behalf of my company HHC 3rd BSTB out of Fort Drum, New York THANK YOU SO MUCH. We received your care packages yesterday. The boxes are basically empty now - everybody seemed
very happy to see what all you sent us. If you would please send me back
an e-mail so I know where to send e-mails.

Thank you again,


SGT Michael J. Sanders, Training NCO
HHC, 3BSTB, OP'S
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hey, my name is Nina Gillespie.  I am a 20-year-old female who currently is serving Iraq.  I just wanted to say thank you for all the cards and all the nice messages you guys sent.  Some days are long here, but you guys always put a smile on my face and make the time fly by.  I love sitting down and reading everything you write.  It’s nice to see someone cares.

The weather here is starting to get really warm.  I read in one of the letters that it was about 68° there the other day.  It’s been in the 90s here and it’s going to keep getting hotter, so we will see.  It’s already too hot for me.  But I just wanted to say thanks for all you do.  We love getting cards and little messages.  It makes our day.  Thank you guys and take care.

Love Always,

SPC Nina Gillespie
710th ORD Company EOD
U.S. Army

Dated 12 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My name is SPC Jessica Reider.  I got a bunch of cards from the nice people in North Carolina.  I would like to say thank you!  I hope you realize how much we appreciate you all taking time to send us these cards.  It’s so nice to know we have friends back in the states who are thinking about us.  It’s a motivator to know we have your support!

Thanks again,

SPC Jessica Reider
710 ORD Co EOD
U.S. Army

Dated 11 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Greetings from xxx (OPSEC) Iraq. Thank you for supporting my Soldiers with the shipment of the care package that we received. The Soldiers sure will enjoy the playing cards, snacks, frisbees and basketball. We really appreciate your support and we are all very proud to have the best support from you, our true Americans back at home in the United States.

I am proud of all my Soldiers and their sacrifices that they give daily and we sure are grateful for your generosity and good old American hospitality that you have shown us all by taking the time out just to remember us.

Thank you and God Bless you all back in the United States.

V/R

1SG Patrick E. Hawkins
E Co. 3/8 CAV, 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 11 March, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Dated 11 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Greetings from Iraq. My name is Sergeant First Class Terrinita Smith. I'm serving on active duty in the U.S. Army. I received some items from the care package and I would to thank you for the messages and the prayers you sent our way. We all really appreciate the care packages that were sent to our company.

The magazines, beauty products, and food items really put smiles on my Soldiers' faces. The items that are available to us here are not always the preferred brand, so the items in the boxes were really welcomed. It's hard being away from our families, but we know that we are here to safeguard the freedom of all Americans.

People like your organization help to make it a little easier. We have been here for xxx (OPSEC) months now and we have xxx months (OPSEC) more to go. It's difficult sometimes because I am a proud mother of four and I can't wait to get home to see my family again. Our home duty station is Fort Hood, Texas. If you would like to contact me, feel free to do so.

I would really like to thank the Give2TheTroops organization for bringing joy to my Soldiers and to me. You support the troops, and the troops appreciate you! God Bless You ALL!

SFC Terrinita L. Smith, Platoon Sergeant
Treatment Platoon CMC 215th BSB
U.S. Army

Dated 10 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My soldiers and I would like to thank you for all the goodies and care packages you sent!  It’s very heartwarming to know that we are thought of, and we appreciate you and the others taking the time to support the soldiers who are deployed!  Please do know we plan on coming home soon and we wish everyone well!

SPC Sandra Phillips
601st ASMC, Unit 73357
U.S. Army

Dated 9 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We received your care package. Thanks so much for thinking of us.  God bless you!

MSG Nathan Espey
9 BDE / 4 REG, Unit 043
U.S. Army

Dated 8 March, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

My name is LCpl Rivera, I have just received 2 packages from your organization and I just wanted to say WOW! Thank you so much! I received a Gamecube system from you today, and I have a story for you. Lately the Marines I have been working with have been getting at each others' throats for days due to boredom and the sand. As soon as I pulled out the Gamecube out of the box, everyone's eyes lit up and I could see them getting closer already. They have already planned to hook it up in our community tent to play together.

You don't understand how much things like that raise the morale here. You really just made a difference in these Marines here. It brings us together and keeps complacency down. This was the first game system out here, and it really made a difference. Thank you so much. We appreciate it more than anything! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!

LCpl Nicole Rivera
II MEF FWD G4
U.S. Marine Corps

Capt Hank Moon
CAATT HQ Group/Mustangs
U.S. Air Force

Dated 3 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just want to say thank you from myself and the soldiers of B-Btry 4/27 FA 2nd PLT. The soldiers really enjoyed the cards and magazines that you sent. I was surprised that the box was sent because I forgot about it. It means a lot to the soldiers and myself to see that we are supported by the veterans. Like one soldier said to me, "The veterans who sent this box are like our forefathers for us." When he said it I didn't understand but the more I thought about it the more I understood what he was trying to say.

Once again Thank-You and North Carolina Branch Volunteers. You all keep us motivated out here.

SFC Norman M. Hunter
B 4-27 / 1-63 C.A.B.
U.S. Army

Dated 3 March, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the two packages that you sent us.  It is nice to get items from the States that we are not able to get here.  Please thank everyone who helps with your organization.  It lets soldiers know that some people back in the States are still thinking about us and willing to take actions to show we are not forgotten.  I am happy to announce that we will finally get a PX at our location later this month.

MAJ Philip Martin
US Spt Element #24
U.S. Army

Dated 28 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to say thank you so much for the packages that we got a few days ago. All I can say is "WOW!" Those were the best care packages that we have got in a long time - the best ever I think except for the ones from the family.  I opened them in our company area and everyone there thought the same thing that I did ... WOW!

I think there was something in there for everyone who was there.  Everyone loved all of the Girl Scout cookies, the beef jerky, books, footballs, etc. Like I said, there was something for everyone.  I will say this - they were the biggest care packages we have received.

Please pass on to all that we said thank you all for taking time out of your lives for us over here. It really does mean so very much to us.  Most of all - thank Andi Grant for making it happen.  I know she knows first hand what it means to us over here.  So thanks to all again. Everyone loved the packages and after I let them read the letter that came with it, I was told to hurry and write back to you.

So thank you again. One person just wanted to know if you might have any connections with anyone who might have cigars.  That is the one thing he said he does to unwind and I guess cigars are hard to get over here (good ones anyway). If you can help, he said thank you, but if you can't he understands and said thanks for the awesome package.  Thanks again for the support. Hope you have a great day.

SFC Loren W. Smith
HHC 10th CAB
U.S. Army

Dated 28 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello, my name is HMC Marrisa Mueller and I wanted to send you a quick note because I recently received one of your care packages.  First of all, I want to thank you and all of the hard workers who put these packages together for the deployed personnel.  It’s such a great thing to get packages in the mail, and then to actually receive things you can use is an added bonus.  Many of us out here at xxxx (OPSEC), Iraq were able to use the items you sent us.  It also makes it so we don’t have to go and buy the necessities we need on a daily basis.  We appreciate all that you and everyone back home do for us, and thank you for your support.  It helps more than you’ll ever know when we have to be separated from our family and friends.  Please give my thanks to everyone, and God bless you!

Thank you,
HMC Marrisa Mueller
CLB-5 Det 1 HHS STP, Unit 42231
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you all for the package you sent me.

THANKS,

PFC Danielle Hill
168th MP BN
U.S. Army

Received 27 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 26 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

The chaplain and the whole 100th BSB wants to thank you for the care packages that you've sent to us. Everybody has a share of it. Thank you so much for your undying support and May God bless you and keep you. We will continue to fight and we will continue to thank you for your support.

v/r,
SPC Grace Vurno, Temporary Chaplains Assistant
HHC 100th BSB Sams 2 Clerk
U.S. Army

Dated 25 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

We wanted to drop a note to say that we received the Valentine's Day package this past weekend. We really appreciate the time and effort your organization devotes to maintaining the morale of deployed soldiers. It means a lot to us to know that we are cared for while separated from our families back home.

MAJ Sebastien P. Joly
2/14/4 DBE BTT Desert's Eleven
U.S. Army

Dated 24 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for your care package.  Our team is working as Combat Advisors for the Iraqi National Police.  We are slowly working with them so that they can protect the future Iraq from criminals and terrorists alike.  Your care packages mean a lot to us!  Just a reminder of the reason we are all over here… to protect America, and great folks like you.  Say hello to all the Give2TheTroops people from all of us in xxxx, Iraq.  Stay safe and I’ll do the same.

CPT Mike Hodgin
8-2 NPTT
U.S. Army

Dated 24 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to thank you for the last box that you had sent to us. We received it just before we had all of our mail stopped. We have just redeployed back to Ft. Hood and I wanted to make sure that I let you know so you can send your wonderful packages to other soldiers.

Thank you so much for everything that you have done for me and my fellow troops.

SSG Jerry Bye
K TRP 3/3 ACR
U.S. Army

Dated 20 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hi.  My name is Regina Mayse.  I just received a package from you today.  I just want to tell you how grateful I am.  The box you sent me was so awesome!  Really, it was the best package I have ever received.  It had a huge box of chocolate-covered cherries in it… yum!!  Patricia Cornwall is my battle buddy’s favorite author, and the book you sent just happens to be one she hasn’t read yet.  I found a home for one of the other books also.  It is a true story and my squad leader loves that genre.  I kept the other, though, and I don’t mind sharing but I have to keep something for me too.  There were plenty of snacks and personal hygiene products, although they won’t last long around here.  The males seem to have a sixth sense about food.  It’s hard to hide any from them.  I am going to have to hide the cherries; chocolate is a very hot commodity around here, as you probably know. 

Anyway, words cannot express how very grateful all my battle buddies and I are.  They all say thank you too!  Thank you for not forgetting and for your continual support.  What you do brings a lot of smiles to a lot of faces.  Walking down the hall with a huge box of chocolates helps, and could potentially be dangerous if I am not careful.  So, thank you from the bottom of my heart and from the bottom of everyone else’s stomach.  Thank you again for what you do.  Take care of yourselves.  I look forward to hearing from you again.

P.S. Please accept my thanks for all the troops who do not write back.  Sometimes mission does not permit, or they do not have the means.  I know everyone appreciates what you do.  Thank you!

Happy Valentine’s Day!  Thank you!

Gina

SPC Regina C. Mayse
CMC 215TH BSB 1CD
U.S. Army

Dated 20 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Cpl Neal Auricchio and
Golf Company, Detachment 1, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines, Task Force "Empire"
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Dated 18 February, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your latest boxes of goodies!!! We're planning a VCR mission to the Indira Ganhdi (IG) Children's Hospital in Kabul in the very near future and the candy and toys will go to those children. 

I am including a few pictures of children that were at the IG burn ward during our site survey.  Just look at their eyes!  Aren't they some of the most adorable children you've ever seen? 




Thank you so much for your continued support of our Troops and our efforts.

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

Dated 17 February, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to let you know that we received your box of goodies today. Once again thanks and Semper Fi ....
             
MGySgt Howard Kiser
MEU Augmentation Program
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 15 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received one of the largest care packages of all time with every flavor of Girl Scout cookies known to man!  Thank you for the support and for all your care packages throughout our deployment.
 
Thanks,
 
Capt Tim Leonard
2/25 Det 1 H&S S-6
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Dated 14 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Hello my name is SGT Magnuson and I'm currently deployed to Iraq (3rd tour) I recently received a generous care package from your branch. We greatly appreciate it. A little something about us. We are normally stationed in Hawaii and are currently deployed to Iraq. Our forward operating base is t he little base that we are calling home for the time.

We don't have any type of shop of any kind here so we deeply appreciate your care package. It was our first package since Christmas. We have an important job over here. When I say "we", I'm referring to my soldiers and me at this FOB. We're cooks and we cook 3 meals a day for around 300 people each meal.

Our day starts a 0400 and ends around 2000 (8:00 PM) 7 days a week. We have been here for about 4 months already, so we were getting low on personal hygiene items. But then your package came and now we are stocked back up. I share all my packages with my troops. A little something about me ... I'm 30 years old and I have been in the service for about 11 years. Like I said before, this is my 3rd deployment and I am very greatly appreciative of the gifts you have given us.

Care packages are always a motivator and brings a smile to our faces. With our time off we watch movies, play Poker, play Texas Hold em and play xbox 360. These things usually keep our minds busy so we don't have to think about the deployment too much. We are always ready to do our job when needed. Thank you once more and may God bless.




THANK YOU,

SGT Stephen Magnuson
D TRP 3-4 CAV, Food service
U.S. Army

P.S. The Pictures are of some of us at Christmas time and me at an Army ball.

Dated 13 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I received a care package from your organization this morning. What I did not use was given to other members of my unit. I wanted to tell you thank you for all that Give2TheTroops does for Soldiers. I appreciate the time that volunteers spend putting together the care packages. Again I would like to thank you for your support.

SSG David W. Elkins
733rd Military Police Battalion (CID)
U.S. Army Reserves

Dated 13 February, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello I just received 2 boxes from Give2TheTroops. I just wanted to say thanks so so much for the boxes. It means a lot to know that people back home are thinking and taking care of us. Again, thanks so so much! I will send pictures, but I just wanted to get a thank you out there!

v/r

SSG Joshua McIntosh
A TRP 3-4 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 12 February, 2009
United Arab Emirates

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I wanted to thank all those involved in the care package I received from you today. Thanks for everything—especially the toiletry items. All of the items where shared with over a dozen Airmen and the cards were hung up in our living areas. Thanks for all you do and your support.

v/r

TSgt Shawn Robert Evora
380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron
U.S. Air Force

Dated 10 February 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Good Evening Thank You for the packages we received during the Holiday Season. We are now in a new year and hopefully things will change for the better here. Please thank those who have supported the Troops who are deployed. It is getting more warmer and some rain with the windstorms.

Sincerely,

"Jedi Doc"

SFC Luis C. Montes
USA FORSCOM
U.S. Army

Dated 9 February, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your packages recently.  Thank you for the magazines, snacks, socks and stuff for the local kids.  One of our team members used the G2TT Discount Flower card to order for his Fiancee for Valentine's Day (good timing).  We had a convoy the same day that we received the packages so we took some stuff for the kids.  The children were very thankful as well. 

We appreciate the slice of home and all of the Valentine's cards from the children in the States.  It reminds me that there are still good and appreciative people in the states supporting what we do over here.  We are including some photos of some of the team from earlier in the deployment.  We have not taken many photos lately. 




Thank you again for your support and generosity.

SSG Cecil C. Anderson
EOD 741st
U.S. Army

Dated 7 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl Brent Jenogan. I received your packages and I am very grateful for everything. When we opened them up we were like kids in a candy store. We appreciate everything you and everyone helping you are doing for us while we are over here. Our morale was boosted by your hospitality. I can't say thank you enough.

I am having everyone sign a post card and I am sending it to you. From everyone here at VMM-266 in AVI we thank you and keep up the great job that your doing. It means a lot to us that are over here serving our country to know that there are people back in the States backing us. So once again, thank you and God Bless.

Cpl Brent Jenogan
ACE VMM-266
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I really thank you for the care package and so does my soldiers. It was really nice and everything was able to be used and much appreciated, so thanks again!! In your letter you said if there was anything else we needed or wanted to let you know. Well, we have a few xbox systems and some PSPs and a DVD player, so any games or movies would be nice. I know some white ankle high socks and some t-shirts would also help, you go through those pretty fast because of the dirt and the heat. The items you have in entertainment and sports and other has a lot of stuff we could use if that helps. You have already done enough, but if you can send those items the soldiers would really appreciate and use anything you send. Thanks for your support.  

Your Soldier,
SFC Bobby Meredith
259th CSSB / 20TH QM
U.S. Army

Dated 5 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

Thank you so much for taking the time to send me a wonderful care package.  I truly appreciate it.  Everything will certainly come in handy.  We will all enjoy it!



Thank you, once again, for the package and kind thoughts. Take care.

SGT Cheri D. Payne
MNF-I 601 ASMC
U.S. Army

Dated 4 February, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Texas Branch),

My name is First Sergeant Sean Luse and I am with the 515th En Co. (Sapper) serving in Iraq. I wanted to thank you for the box sent to us by your Give2TheTroops organization. It couldn't have come at a better time. We are currently working out of a relatively small Forward Operating Base and have very limited access to personal hygiene articles and other nice to have things, so the box was greatly appreciated.

We have a big table to put everything on and I posted the letter that came with the box above it, so the Soldiers know who it came from. Thanks again for all you and your organization do for the troops.

1SG Sean W. Luse
515th En Company (Sapper)
U.S. Army

Dated 2 February, 2009
Iraq

For Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

From 1LT Jamie Stamper & Company
2nd BN, 44th Air Defense Artillery, 108th Air Defense
U.S. Army

Dated 31 January, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for the nice care package. It's nice to know that people care about what we are doing for our country. Please pass on to everyone that your kindness is appreciated. I will make sure to pass along your web site to friends and fellow Airmen.   Thanks again.  

v/r
TSgt Parrish A. Stalworth
451 AEG/LRF Supply Equipment Management
U.S. Air Force

Dated 31 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm writing to say thank you very much for the huge care packages you sent to us which included an XBOX System, Art supplies, much needed hot pads, and other materials needed to continue my mission of feeding the Marines of Golf Co 2/25. The artwork from the kids was great and the sign they made went up on our wall. 

I am attaching a photo of myself, Cpl Szczygiel, Cpl Morgan and Cpl Aurrichio. I'm of course the one with the cool handmade Chef apron on and the Xbox system. Cpl Aurrichio is holding the Flag that is hung here that will be going out to you. Cpl Szczygiel is holding the Playstation3 System.



Thank you for your generosity and keeping our morale up.

Semper Fidelis
LCpl Roberto A. Reid, Jr. (The Golf Company "Combat Chef De jour")
Golf Co 2/25
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thanks for everything and all you did for us. It was truly a blessing and helped us make our stay and job over here much easier in Iraq. You all have been a blessing and a great inspiration to us and we owe you so much. So we say thank you and may God bless you all abundantly, because you all deserve it for what you all do to make the Soldiers lives much more enjoyable and to show them that there are people out there who care about what we are doing here in Iraq.

Again thanks for everything, from me and the soldiers here,

SFC Donald Housey
Mitt 0440 BDE, ACO2/320TH FAR
U.S. Army

Dated 21 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to thank you for the boxes you sent me and my shipmates here in Iraq.  The coffee you sent was a huge hit, as was everything else.  You can’t begin to understand what it means to us out here to have the support of those back home such as yourselves and all the generous people who donated to your cause.  Thank you again and God bless.

LCDR Brian Mai, BCG AA Billeting Division Office
Base Command Group
U.S. Navy

Dated 20 January, 2009
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to thank you for the gift box. Once it arrived, the Marines started to tear into it. Attached is a photo of some of our Marines....



Once again thanks again and Semper Fi....

MGySgt Howard M. Kiser
MEU AUGMENTATION PROGRAM
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Washington Branch),

I am currently deployed to Iraq. I have received many wonderful boxes from this organization. I just wanted to say thank you so much because these were the best boxes ever! They had Christmas stockings with candy and personal hygiene items and I distributed them throughout the FOB. I also received a box with children's crayons and school supplies which I gave to a little 9-year-old Iraqi boy named "Haseem" and his 7 brothers and sisters in a nearby city.

Thank you for all of the gifts! thank you for bringing the Christmas Spirit to Iraq. God bless!!!

PVT Cassandra Lewis
2-4 ID HHT BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 17 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am LCpl Torres and I have been receiving packages from your organization for some months now and I would like to thank you and all the people in your organization, for all the efforts and caring thoughts that they have contributed to my life and to the life of my fellow Marines. It meant a lot to us and it helped us as we went about our daily duties. I have been in country for nearly a year and I am now on the eve of returning home therefore I will no longer be here to accept your gifts however I know that there will be others and I know that you will do the same for them, your donations really do help and they are appreciated, thank you again for everything you all do and God Bless you all.

Semper Fidelis,
LCpl Luis David Torres
1st MLG H&S Co  (CCU)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 January, 2009
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your unwavering and selfless support of the Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers on Camp XXXX (OPSEC). Your kindness and thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. When we receive a care package, we place the items in a free room for military members to come pick up what they want. Your generous support provides an immeasurable boost to morale and invigorates our Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers as they execute their mission far from home.

Thank you again for your genuine interest in our well being during this deployment. Please know that your Armed Forces continue to serve our great nation with a steadfast courage that cannot be quantified.

The 5 boxes that you sent us were well received and everything was gone in a couple of days ... nice job putting in what the troops actually want ...

Semper Fidelis
SGT Casey Holbrook, Brigade Chaplain Assistant
HQ 81st, HBCT, UMT
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 January, 2009
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank you all for the boxes you sent us that we received.  The Marines and I enjoyed them and greatly appreciate the dedication and support you show all of us currently serving.
 
Thank you,
 
SSgt Wesley S. Bowers
3/8 H&S Company
U.S. Marine Corps

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