Letter to the Editor: Troops remembered as holidays approach

Troops At Christmas

To the Editor:

 The holidays will be here soon. Instead of exchanging presents, this year our family is sending care packages to a group of Marines serving in Afghanistan. The unit consists of both men and women from Camp Lejeune, N.C.

The unit we have selected said they would be thrilled with anything, especially letters or news from home (USA). The cold, wet months are beginning and these Marines will be working in the elements around the clock to support our brothers and sisters.

These Marines could benefit from a variety of items. Microwavable foods such as instant soup packets, Ramen noodles, hot cocoa packets, tea bags, instant coffee, small packets of sugar, Splenda, or Equal, coffee creamer and popcorn. Salty snacks such as Slim Jims, Beef Jerky, chips and crackers. Olive green long sleeve T-shirts, dark socks and black winter gloves.  Hand warmers or anything tactical or warm. We know from last year the hand warmers were a big hit, they are available at Walmart in the sporting goods department.

The Marines would appreciate music CDS, perhaps any random mix of ’80s, ’90s, and today including pop, top 40, alternative, and rock. They also like Christmas decorations and music. Hygiene products including razors, Q-Tips, small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash and deodorant (both men’s and women’s) are a great help. The women love body spray from Bath and Body Works.

They essentially need anything to keep the morale alive with the holidays approaching. Since they will be away from their families, we would like these soldiers to have a special holiday, and we are sending as many items as we can. All donations and efforts are greatly appreciated.

If you would like to donate items or make a monetary contribution to cover shipping charges, please drop items and money off at either Bowen Construction, 446 E. 4th St. or to The Seale Family, 430 E. Railroad Ave.

We would like to send the items by November 11 to assure delivery before Christmas.

If you or your family would like to adopt your own group of brave soldiers, go to anysoldier.com.

As the founder of anysoldier.com said, “It is a letter, maybe even in a box, that will change the day of that warrior. I can tell you for a fact that a simple act like that may not only save the life of that warrior, but affects the morale of the entire unit.”

Let’s remember those fighting to preserve our freedom. Thank you,

Tammy Crafton
& Linda Konings
Boca Grande