Who knew?

It's a story that will forever change the way you think of the phrase, "Get Out of Jail Free."

During World War II, as the number of British airmen held hostage behind enemy lines escalated, the country's secret service enlisted an unlikely partner in the ongoing war effort: The board game Monopoly.

It was the perfect accomplice.

Included in the items the German army allowed humanitarian groups to distribute in care packages to imprisoned soldiers, the game was too innocent to raise suspicion. But it was the ideal size for a top-secret escape kit that could help spring British POWs from German war camps.

The British secret service conspired with the U.K. manufacturer to stuff a compass, small metal tools, such as files, and, most importantly, a map, into cut-out compartments in the Monopoly board itself...

Full story here

Labels: Supporting the troops, WWII

A week ago, at lunchtime, my phone rang. It was my personal cell phone, and I was at work. Didn't recognize the area code, so I didn't answer. I did, however look up the area code.

'Waco, Texas?' I thought. 'Who the hell do I know in Waco, Texas?'

I travel for work, but I haven't been in Texas in a while (and I've never been to Waco), so I didn't think that was it.

Only one other option I could think of - a Soldier.

It rang again. Same number. Though I had to leave in a few moments for a business meeting, I picked it up.

The caller had a mischievous tone in his voice as he asked me how I was doing, and whether I was in CT or travelling that day. 'OK, I'll play,' I thought. There were only a couple of people this could be. Not too many people had this number.

He asked me about my dogs, my work, my family.

And then he asked about the squirrels - an inside joke that only one person outside of my house knew about.

It was my first Soldiers' Angels adoptee - the one who calls me Big Sis, and who I call alternately SuperSarge, Li'l Bro, or my favorite Cav. Scout.

I'd never talked to him in person before. And unbelievably, after a minute, I had to say,

"You're not going to believe this, but I have to go. Can I call you back?"

When I did, it turned into a two-hour conversation. The last time I'd heard from him, he was feeling pretty low. Medevac'd out of Iraq his last tour, he'd been going through a pretty tough time, with treatments, evaluations, and the fact that his future military career was in question due to his medical issues.

He'd told me then that at his lowest, he'd re-read a book I sent him - a book full of thank yous and other messages. He said the book kept him focused on the fact that a lot of people were pulling for him, and he couldn't let them down.

This day, he sounded good - cheery, a bit of a smart@$$ - exactly the way I figured he'd sound based on letters, emails, and instant message conversations.

At one point, he expressed amazement at the fact that I'd known him for four years now. He said I was one of very few people who had seen him at his best and his worst. I told him what I've told him a number of times before - that I would be there anytime he needed me.

He told me that thanks to some great people, he was making progress - getting treatment that was working. He said that the place he was at was awesome, and not enough people knew about them.

He also mentioned that he was working to arrange a ski trip for him and some buddies - they had a ski place that was donating equipment and tickets, but they still didn't have ski jackets, pants, etc. In fact, he wasn't even sure what the heck they needed - "I'm from Louisiana!"

He wondered if I knew of any place that might be willing to donate ski jackets, pants, etc.

I didn't, but I did know where to get help. I immediately (with him on the phone) emailed Patti about the trip, what they needed, etc.

Within a few days, they were all set and ready to purchase jackets, pants, etc. - all the cold weather clothing they needed.

When the folks at the clinic asked my Li'l Bro how the heck he'd pulled that off, he reported that he'd said:

"You know how I say I'm the Hand of God on the battlefield? Well, God never goes anywhere without his Angels."

HOOAH to that.

Patti didn't hesitate when I asked. Not one second. Her response was "we'd be honored to help."

And that's the response I - and so many others - always get when Soldiers' Angels is asked for help. SA never looks for what can't be done, but always for what CAN be done. When hurricanes damage barracks, when fires damage FOBs, when it's hot as heck in Iraq, when wounded heroes need ski gear - it's "What can we do to help?"

What mattered most in the world to me and to one wounded Hero on that Friday afternoon was getting some warm weather clothing so that six Heroes could go skiing. And again, it was "what can we do to help."

In the aftermath of a political campaign based on the catch phrase "Yes we can," SA shows what that really means, but goes further. SA isn't just "Yes we can" - it's "Yes we will."

Unfortunately, as things stand now, the reality of charities / non-profits is that donations are drying up. Whether the economic slowdown / recession / whatever you want to call it has actually hit or not, people perceive that things are rough, and they're tightening their belts. Unfortunately, one of the things they're giving up is donations to groups like Soldiers' Angels.

What that means is that more than 500 Heroes are currently waiting for Angels.

And SA is looking at escalating action in Afghanistan, and continuing efforts in Iraq, and saying, "Yes, we can - but we need your help to do it."

I've seen SA get family members tickets to see wounded heroes, provide voice-activated laptops to wounded heroes, ensure that wounded troops in Germany don't feel alone, and bring the holidays to tens of thousands of deployed Heroes.

It doesn't take much to be a part of it.

$5.00 sends a cool scarf to a Hero, to alleviate the misery of the desert heat.

$13.00 sends a 150-minute phone card.

$29.00 buys a kit to make a Blanket of Hope that you can send to comfort a wounded Hero.

$32.00 helps send a Welcome Home pack to a Hero.

$45.00 - $55.00 provides a welcome thank you to a veteran, or provides much-needed necessities to our Heroes, who often arrive at the hospital with nothing.

Or why not adopt a Hero? A letter a week / a package a month is all it takes. The USPS provides free mailing supplies to those who are sending to deployed troops, and they've got flat-rate priority mail shipping. My average package from the East Coast to an APO starting with 09 is about $6.00 - $8.00 to ship. Homemade treats, goofy gifts to bring a laugh, books, magazines - the contents don't have to be remarkable. The recipients, though, certainly are.

Without my involvement in SA, I would never have met my friend the SuperSarge, who I've talked to on the phone several times since, and who is one of the finest people it has ever been my privilege to know (seriously, Li'l Bro - you rock). Without SA, I would never have blogged. I would never have been to Walter Reed and had the chance to meet some incredible Heroes. Five minutes to sign up online changed my life, put me in the company of Heroes, and made me a better person. And my Li'l Bro would never have gotten a message book that provided a lift in one of his lowest moments. That's what SA does; what it means.

It means that Heroes half a world away, or right here at home, know we care.

How much is it worth to have the chance to thank a Hero? One less latte at Starbucks? A night at the movies? That jar of pennies?

It really doesn't take much - but it might mean everything.

Labels: Soldiers' Angels, Supporting Our Heroes, Supporting the troops

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2008 – As the holidays approach and military families start thinking about what they’re going to send loved ones serving overseas, there are a few dates to keep in mind.

“The earliest deadline is for troops that are serving in the Iraq [and] Afghanistan area,” said Al DeSarro, spokesman for the western region of the U.S. Postal Service. “You want to send all your holiday mail and packages [to those areas] by Dec. 4.”

Holiday mail, including packages and cards, going to military bases in other parts of the world should be shipped by Dec. 11, he said.

“We do encourage people to closely follow these deadlines,” DeSarro said. “Of course, we make every attempt, even if you miss the deadline, to deliver the mail to our troops.”

Pseudo-Santas who can’t beat those dates have another option to get holiday goodies to their destinations in time: Express Mail. But it will cost a bit more and it’s not available for servicemembers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Priority Mail Flat-Rate boxes are the best value when shipping to military members serving at home or anywhere overseas, DeSarro said. The largest flat-rate box costs $10.95 to ship to an APO or FPO address. That’s a $2 discount, and the boxes are free.

The flat-rate boxes come with another bonus. If it will fit in the box, and weighs 70 pounds or less, it ships at the established rate.

“We also offer a special military package kit, … and this applies even if you want to send to our troops here in the U.S.,” DeSarro said. “If you call … 1-800-610-8734, they’ll send you a free kit of packaging materials -- priority mail boxes, tape, labels and stuff that can make your holiday packing much easier.”

When shipping any holiday package, there are some basic guidelines to take into consideration, he added. If a USPS-provided box isn’t being used, senders should make sure the box they’re using is sturdy. Don’t use wrapping paper or string on the outside, and print both the shipping and return addresses clearly. Contents should be packaged securely and in leak-proof containers, and consider the customs of the country to ensure the items are appropriate and acceptable.

USPS also suggests including the mailing address, return address and the contents of the box on a slip of paper with the other contents, just in case something out of the ordinary should happen.

Following not only the shipping date guidelines, but also the general packing guidelines can help the USPS get packages where they’re going during their busiest time of the year.

DeSarro urges people to mail as much as they want and as early as they can, noting that officials expect 20 million pounds of mail will be sent U.S. troops this holiday season.


Related Sites:
U.S. Postal Service

Related Articles:
USPS Overseas Holiday Shipping Calendar for Delivery by Dec. 25

Labels: care packages, holidays, mailing guidelines, Supporting the troops

From DefenseLink:


By Jamie Findlater
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 2008 – The host of a radio program available worldwide on the Internet gives servicemembers a chance to tell their stories.

“This is one way that I can serve the military,” Dave Whitten, host of “Voice of the Troops,” a weekly hour-long show on Phoenix station KFNX and carried on the station’s Web site, said in an “ASY Live” BlogTalkRadio interview.

“ASY Live” is part of the Defense Department’s America Supports You program, which connects American citizens and companies with servicemembers at home and abroad.

“I grew up in a very military household,” Whitten said. “I always kick myself for not serving.”

The idea started for Whitten a year and a half ago, he said, after listening to the radio and television and sensing a need to bring to light the voice of the individual servicemember.

“You hear all the bad stuff that goes on,” he said. “Let’s face it, war is not pretty. … But you never [get] to hear the good stories about the good things that our troops [are] doing.”

on the program airs Sundays at 7 p.m. PST and is available on the Web at www.1100kfnx.com.

“I give them an hour every week to talk about whatever they want without cutting them up into sound bites,” Whitten said. Topics range from post-traumatic stress disorder to military history.

“On one of our most memorable shows, we had two of the remaining five Navajo code talkers talking about how they saved countless numbers of Marine lives in the Pacific Theater,” he said. “What was really interesting was that many of these guys were in their mid-80s, and you never know, this might be the last time we capture this. I was told by another Marine, “You guys have captured a part of history.”

It’s important, especially with current conflicts, to talk to those who are directly affected, Whitten said.

“Kimberly Dozier was a CBS News reporter that we had on our show recently to talk about her experience,” he said. “Kimberly and her video crew were involved in an [improvised explosive device] explosion over in Iraq and almost lost her life. [As a] matter of a fact, her photographer and sound person did lose their lives, and she knows first-hand the type of quality care that military survivors received. We got her on the show to talk about how the military doctors got her back to normal.”

The show also discusses recent topics of interest and the important ramifications of new military policy.

“Recently, we had a show with two colonels, Kevin and Kate Voight, who talked about their experience serving as intel officers based in Baghdad, Iraq,” he said. “Now that Army rules have changed, they can actually serve in a combat area together and have their own housing. It’s a way to attract qualified people, because they can have the 15 months of actually functioning as a husband and wife.”

Voice of the Troops also brings to light plans for future development of new capabilities. For example, he said, he has lined up Air Force Maj. Gen. William T. Lord, commander of the Air Force’s provisional Cyberspace Command, as a guest for an upcoming program to talk about the importance of defending the nation’s computer systems from adversaries.

Whitten said he appreciates that programs like America Supports You work to get the message out to servicemembers about programs like his.

“We are proud to work with programs like America Supports You, [which] has done a phenomenal job in garnering the support of people throughout the nation,” Whitten said. “We need to help [the public] understand that there is a need out there. We still have men and women in a combat zone, and my hat’s off to ASY for what they do.”

(Jamie Findlater works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)


Related Sites:
“ASY Live” on BlogTalkRadio.com
America Supports You

Labels: Good News, Supporting the troops

LT. DAN BAND - Oscar-nominated actor and director Gary Sinise, right, and his "Lt. Dan Band" perform a concert in the Pentagon Courtyard at the 4th Annual America Supports you concert as part of Military Appreciation Month at the Pentagon, Friday, May 16, 2008. Defense Dept. photo by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jerry Morrison

Story - More Photos

Labels: America Supports You, Gary Sinise, Lt. Dan Band, Military Appreciation Month, Supporting the troops, Tonal Troop Support

Hi Everyone,

My mom Patti Patton Bader founder of Soldiers' Angels is up for consideration for NBC's America's Favorite Military Mom on Monday (May 5th). You can help her, Soldiers, Angels, and me, by voting for her at http://www.nbc.com/Americas_Favorite_Mom/ - You can only vote Monday May 5th from 9 AM to 9 PM Eastern ST but you can vote up to 10 times (on the 5th) for each valid email address you have.

If she wins Soldiers' Angels will get more exposure on a National T.V. show on May 11. This exposure helps us show our troops in a real way that they are strongly supported by us at home, and also helps to provide awareness and needed donations so that we can continue to meet the needs of our heroes.

Also, if you get a chance, my mom will be on NBC's The Today Show during the 9 A.M. hour [o n Monday, May 5th]. As you all know Soldiers' Angels is a wonderful organization of volunteers that does a lot of great support for all the men and women of the military, aids our troops wherever we raise the Stars and Stripes, helps wounded heroes here and abroad, and assists military families in times of need.

Please help us by voting for my mom Monday and maybe passing on this email to a few of your friends. It's for a good cause and only takes a moment. Here's the link again.

http://www.nbc.com/Americas_Favorite_Mom/

Thank you and God Bless everyone who helps our troops,

SSGT Brandon H. Varn

Labels: Patti Patton-Bader, Soldiers' Angels, Supporting the troops

Bailey Reese, founder and president of Hero Hugs, meets Col. Darryl Roberson, 325th Fighter Wing commander, during the recent open house at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. Bailey, with the help of her family, started Hero Hugs four years ago to recognize and show appreciation for America's servicemembers. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Vesta M. Anderson)


by Airman 1st Class Veronica McMahon
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

4/15/2008 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFPN) -- Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines working the Tyndall Air Force Base air show Saturday recently an unexpected surprise that caught many off guard. Hard at work on the flightline in the blazing sun, many troops were stopped by the voice of an 11-year-old girl thanking each military member for his or her service. Along with the "thank-you" came a goodie bag.

The little girl handing out the "doses of appreciation" was Bailey Reese, founder and president of Hero Hugs, an organization based on recognizing and appreciating America's troops. Hero Hugs is part of America Supports You, a Department of Defense organization connecting citizens and organizations with military members and their families serving here and abroad.

Hero Hugs was started by Bailey, with the help of her family, roughly four years ago. In those years, they have sent care packages to Iraq, Afghanistan and Korea, and they have visited military events to show their appreciation for America's troops.

More than 26,000 packages, 10,000 goodie bags and five air shows later, Bailey showed up here to share her gratitude with Tyndall Airmen.

Bailey, along with her mother, Diane Reese, and her 16-year-old brother Tim Calvert, spent the entire day passing more than 600 goodie bags comprising granola bars, candy bars, hard candy, powdered drink mix and hand wipes.

Bailey explained she began Hero Hugs after Hurricane Ivan, when she witnessed servicemembers who were providing humanitarian help being treated poorly.

"I saw people yelling at the (troops) at the checkpoint where (Soldiers and Airmen) were giving out ice and water," said Bailey. "I didn't hear anyone say thank you to them."
Bailey said she went home and made thank you cards for the servicemembers. She recalled how the cards brought tears to their eyes and how rewarding it was to know they felt appreciated.

When she started Hero Hugs, she sent about 100 packages out each month, said her mom. Now, due to extra support, the organization sends about 1,000 packages monthly.

"We raise money by fundraisers, collecting donations and selling 'Support our Troops' magnets," said Diana Reese. "We also have received some donations from corporations and businesses."

During the air show, many people heard Bailey's heart-warming story. The story, along with the goodie bags and the many thanks, brought out positive reactions from the servicemembers.

Elementary school classes, scout troops and volunteers from across the United States also have helped by decorating packages and conducting fund-raisers.

"I thought it was outstanding," said Capt. August Pfluger, 325th Fighter Wing Operations Support Squadron F-15 simulators chief, air show chairman and recipient of one of Bailey's goodie bags. "I heard nothing but good things (about her) from everyone in uniform. They were surprised and very appreciative of the support they received."

Some troops thanked her with a unit coin or patch.

"I'll do this for as long as I can," said Bailey. "It felt really good when (the troops) said thank you. I knew they all really appreciated it."

Comment on this story at af.mil (comments may be published on Air Force Link)
View the comments/letters page


Related Links:
America Supports You
Hero Hugs

Labels: Hero Hugs, Supporting the troops, Tyndall Air Force Base

Today's Day-By-Day cartoon contains a very important message you may have missed, and one heck of a way to thumb your nose at the Moonbats.

Hollywood's attempts to storm theaters with anti-war movies have failed of late - miserably.

JD Johannes is trying to prove that the problem lies in their perspective:

People often complain about Hollywood's leftward tilt when it comes to Iraq, but few do anything pro-active about it.

I am trying to do something about it.

I have nearly died a few times trying to do something about it. [...]

Hollywood and the entertainment industry is a business focused on the bottom line. If people want Hollywood to produce a pro-victory film, or a pro-troop television series, they will have to demonstrate that it is economically viable.

Most of the anti-war films have taken a beating at the box office.

Brian DePalma's 'Redacted' grossed $65,388, but cost $5million to make and 'Home of the Brave' only brought in $51,708 domestically.

Here's his plan, and his call to action:

To beat 'Redacted's' box office gross, takes the sale of 2,900 DVDs. Just 2,900 DVDs sold.

To demonstrate to Hollywood and the cable TV networks that a pro-victory documentary is viable, I need to sell 2,900 in 6 weeks.

2,900 total DVDs. It doesn't matter if it is 2,000 individual episodes and 900 of the double-disc trilogy .

2,900 DVDs sold pokes Hollywood in the eye and shows that a pro-victory documentary can beat the studios.

Sounds good to me. I bought 2. 2898 to go....

Get yours now.

Labels: Supporting the troops

Gotta love it. Everytime I put up a post about how the antiwar crowd is almost universally anti-troop, some knucklehead comes by and puffs about how I'm doing a disservice to them, how they really do care about the troops, they just don't want to see them "die for oil" or some other cliche antiwar line.

And it never fails - wait a little while, and they always prove me right.

Sadly, but predictably, they've done it again, at Milwaukee's Army Recruiting Center:

All the windows of the station were busted out, and graffiti that read “War is Offensive” was scrawled on the side of the building. A witness told WTMJ that he saw anti-war slogans written on the windows before they were broken.

Still, I can't help but chuckle. "War is offensive" is the best thing you could come up with? And you write your slogans on the windows - and then break them. Brilliant.

These particular non-violent, peace-loving, 'why can't we all just get along' types have been to this Recruiting Station before - throwing smoke bombs and paint. How peaceful. One of their sentimental, happy, peace-love-joy messages this time? "Expect Resistance."

Some days, I really wish these losers could be on the receiving end when our troops show them what the word "offensive" means in military circles.

Nah, they're not anti-troop. Of course not.

I may be a "Macchiavellian Warmonger" (and proud of it, thank you very much), but at least I don't hide what I believe. I am pro-military, pro-America, pro-kicking-enemy-tail, and decidedly anti-hippie-coward.

As far as that "Expect Resistance" thing goes? Right back at you, peacenik - never again will you derail the public opinion. Recycle all the 40-year-old crap you want, but when you meet those of us who understand what we owe our Heroes, Expect Resistance.

Labels: Anti-War protests, Moonbats, opinions, Supporting the troops

Life is finally starting to get back to some semblance of normal for me after my husband's injury this past August (no, not in combat - we're civilians. Although my puppy did attack him once he fell, so maybe that counts as some sort of combat...). Or at least, to the new normal.

I haven't been inspired - and haven't had the energy - to really rant in a while. Wouldn't you know it would be the scum of the earth - one step above the terrorists - that prompted me to do so again?

I've been criticized in the past for saying that the anti-war crowd almost invariably turns anti-troop. They'll tell you they're not.

Even when they do this, and this, and this, and this, and this.....and the list goes on.

Still, they'll tell you they're not anti-troop. And as it was forty years ago, and sixty years ago, and in every conflict where they've decided to slither in, it's a lie.

And now, once again, they're at it in D.C.

I had warned in one of my rants that if we weren't careful, the openly anti-troop crowd would take advantage of the war's waning popularity, and the weakening of American resolve, to do the things they never would have dared do in those first few months after 9/11.

We are at a critical, and very dangerous time in this war - and in this country. If we do not as a country stand up - right now - and say that our heroes are NOT to be maligned, or thrown out of town, or told that their exercises will scare people, or asked not to attend things in uniform, we are going to be right back where we were.

If you want a parallel to Viet Nam, this is it - the idiots. The wretched creatures who dare crawl out from under their slime-coated rocks to dare and attack those who give them the right to spill their worthless drivel.

It. Is. Not. Acceptable. Ever.

Not in Berkeley, not in D.C., and not in a tiny town in CT where they darken a town green every Sunday. Well, at least unless the weather is less than sunny. Lord knows they don't want to be out there if it's inconvenient.

Not in this war, not in any other war. Not at a school, not in some wildly Left-wing town. No, it shouldn't be illegal to be an idiot; I'm not saying the government should stop them. But we do not have to accept unacceptable behavior. WE should stop them. And it's easy. Simply stop accepting the behavior. Confront it - walk up and tell them they should be ashamed of themselves. Stand on the opposite corner with a sign that thanks the troops. Rev motorcycle engines so loud you drown out the idiots. I'm not saying you get violent. They do enough of that. I'm just saying do something. Don't just shake your head as you go by. Our troops are willing to be sent anywhere, to do anything they are asked - to die to protect our freedom. And dammit, we owe them better than letting these idiots operate without consequence.

There are two types of comments I remove from this blog. One is spam. The other is a comment that trashes our troops. You can argue against the war. You can argue against my viewpoint. Not a problem. But trash the troops, and I'm likely to either use your comment as an example of profound stupidity (in which case you and your insipid little friends will send me stupid emails and spam trackbacks), or I'm going to delete your lame little comment.

'Cause it's my blog, and I can. And I will.

I promised a long time ago that I would not allow it in my little corner of the world. And every moonbat that decides to mouth off about the Army flag in my window, or the POW flag on my garage door, or a post on this blog gets a full-on dose of one pissed off Soldiers' Angel.

And anyone who doesn't stand up and say that it's not acceptable to trash our troops is worse than the anti-war scum. They're idiots. But at least they care about their idiocy. If you can't muster up the energy to even give a crap, that's worse.

There is NO EXCUSE for another generation of Heroes to think they have to be ashamed of their service. There is NO EXCUSE for allowing these people to have free rein. They're cowards. They're hypocrites (their 'peace' rallies often turning violent). And they are wrong.

For me, two words come to mind when I think of our troops. Thank You.

I've got two words for the anti-troop bottom feeders too. The second one is also "You."

The first one, I'll let you figure out for yourself. It sure as heck ain't "Thank."

At the Soldiers' Angels conference this morning, Chuck asked for a bulldozer and directions to Berkeley.

I say we give them to him.

Labels: Left-Wingnuts, Moonbats, My Two Cents, opinion, Supporting the troops

AMERICAN CHOPPER - Paul Teutul Sr. of Orange County Choppers and the "American Chopper" television program rides the "Patriot Chopper," a motorcycle designed by U.S. troops, Jan 15, 2008. Episodes of "American Chopper" airing on The Learning Channel, Jan. 17 and 24 will feature the first of three bikes to be built by Orange County Choppers for the National Guard. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mary Flynn

Labels: motorcycles, National Guard, Orange County Choppers, photos, Supporting the troops

Yellowcard rocks servicemembers in Southwest Asia
The Yellowcard band performs one of their songs Jan. 12 at a Southwest Asia air base. The tour was a way for the band to saying thank you to American servicemembers on their five-day United Service Organizations' tour. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Patrick Dixon)

Labels: photos, Supporting the troops, USO, Yellowcard

From Multi-National Force - Iraq:


Sgt. 1st Class Boe, a therapeutic dog being used in Iraq to help Soldiers relieve stress, sits in the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Operations Center, Jan. 10. Photo by Spc. Richard Rzepka, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs.


Saturday, 12 January 2008

COB SPEICHER — Ever had a Sergeant 1st Class lick your face? For many Soldiers here, these are not freakish events, but regular occurrences. Sgt. 1st Class Boe is the newest member of the 85th Medical Detachment Combat Stress Control unit at COB Speicher, and is one of two K-9 therapists being used by the Army to help prevent and control the stresses of living in a combat zone.

Along with Staff Sgt. Mike Calaway, an occupational therapy assistant with the Combat Stress Control unit, Boe is part of a new Army program, which encourages Soldiers to interact with dogs in order to help relieve the psychological stresses of war.

The dogs, two Black Labrador Retrievers, were donated and trained by America’s VetDogs and are the first dogs to be used in a combat zone for therapeutic purposes. The organization is part of the larger non-profit group, Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, which has been helping provide guide dogs for the blind since the 1940s. Recognizing a growing need for specialized service dogs for America’s fighting forces, VetDogs recently initiated the therapy dog concept.

The dogs are intended to provide comfort and relaxation through physical interaction, whether it’s a game of fetch or just a peaceful few minutes of petting.

“I felt more relaxed after being able spend some time with her,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brenda Rich, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Medical Operations. “For a few minutes it was just me and the dog and nothing in this environment seemed to matter.”

Calaway spent two weeks training with Boe in New York City to develop a bond, before the pair was sent to Iraq to take on the challenge of helping Soldiers cope with a deployment.

“She’s a very well trained and very intelligent animal,” said Calaway, who recently introduced Boe to Soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division at COB Speicher. “So far we’ve had an outstanding response from Soldiers,” he said, “whether they need help or not.”

Deployments can create several different kinds of stressors, said Calaway, and Boe helps to break the ice, allowing Soldiers to open up about ongoing issues in their lives.

The major types of stress deployed Soldiers must deal with include operational stress, homefront stress and sleeping issues, said Calaway.

“The Soldiers absolutely love her,” said Maj. Charles Kuhlman, 1st BCT Chaplain.

Often Soldiers on outlying bases will befriend stray dogs for companionship and to get a feel for home, said Kuhlman. “Dogs make a huge difference in morale.”

(Story by Spc. Rick L. Rzepka, 101st Airborne Division Public Affairs)


In Other Recent Developments Here:

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups facilitator early Thursday during operations to disrupt criminal element networks in the Baghdad area.

TAJI – The Iraqi Air Force Training School graduated 116 new warrant officers from its basic military training course held in Taji, Jan 8.

Labels: 101st Airborne Division, 85th Medical Detachment, COB Speicher, combat stress, Combat Stress Control, Iraq, service animals, Supporting the troops, therapeutic dog

NOTE: You can see the cartoon Mr. Stokely refers to here - it's #5 in the slideshow. (I won't put it on this site).


To the Editorial Board of the Atlanta Journal Constitution:

Today, as I read the Sunday (December 30, 2007) edition of the AJC, and as I tried to turn past the two page spread you gave Mike Luckovich, my eye caught his distasteful use (again) of a Flag Draped Casket (year end recap / replay of July 17 cartoon). Worse yet, Mike Luckovich used these descriptive words "..THIS LOUSY COFFIN..." as he refers to the most visible, respectable, and grief evoking symbol of a fallen soldier. You may think me overly sensitive, but then you wouldn't think I was if you had met your fallen son's body as I did at an air cargo hanger at Hartsfield Airport on August 24, 2005. Perhaps you might understand better if you could have been there when the news broke at my home, as I walked in circles in my driveway trying to figure out how to tell my family, including my son's 13 year old sister who adored him. Try figuring out how to cope as a family day to day with the most incredible loss imaginable - the loss of a son and brother, or as some have, a daughter and sister. Try being a 20 year old bride to your high school sweetheart ten days before he went to war, only to be handed the flag off his casket three months later. Sit down and review my son's autopsy report and see for yourself why he was "non-viewable body". Then, perhaps, you and Mike Luckovich might have a glimpse why it is so insensitive and in such poor taste to use a Flag Draped Casket in the manner that Mike Luckovich has now done on two occasions.

The Flag Draped Casket is the last visible and demonstrative image so many of us have of our fallen loved ones. God spare you the pain those of us who have welcomed home a Flag Draped Casket have endured, for it is a pain which radiates from a special privilege of sacrifice which costs a life time of love. May you never have to open a paper and see something so dear to your broken heart being trifled with as Mike Luckovich does with the Flag Draped Casket.

There are many who profit off war, and in war, one man's loss is another's black ink bottom line. But, would your bottom line run red if you just left the Flag Draped Casket alone?

Robert Stokely
proudly remembering my son, SGT Mike Stokely
KIA 16 AUG 05 near Yusufiyah Iraq
USA E 108 CAV 48th BCT GAARNG
DUTY HONOR COUNTRY


p.s. - Note to file - Mike Luckovich used the word coffin but there is a significant difference between a coffin, which is contoured, being wider at the upper body and narrower at the legs versus a casket which has a uniform dimension.

Labels: editorial cartoons, Fallen Heroes, Gold Star families, media coverage, Mike Luckovich, Robert Stokely, SGT Mike Stokely, Supporting the troops

Each year that goes by, I become more aware of just how precious our freedom is, and how fragile. All that stands between us and a free America being only a distant memory are brave men and women who risk their lives for all of us. Thank you to all of our Heroes in Iraq, Afghanistan, and numerous places far from home. Thank you for those that have gone before. You are all in our hearts and prayers, and we are very, very proud of all of you. Merry Christmas.

Pam

Below are messages from Soldiers' Angels and others who wanted to send their holiday wishes to our Heroes.


Merry Christmas to all our brave Men and Women far away and close to home who put on the uniform and stand for us.

Stay Safe
We all love you and are so Proud of your work.

Love
Patti Patton-Bader
Founder, Soldiers' Angels

I would like to extend my Christmas greetings to all our brave men and women overseas who continue to defend freedom in the war on terror.

It must be difficult for all to be so far away from family, especially this time of year. But, please know that you are thought of often and by many. The sacrifices of each and everyone of you make are truly appreciated.

You are all in my prayers now and always. May God bless each and everyone of you, and may He bring you home to your families safe and sound soon.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Kristin B
Fremont, CA

I just wanted to send holiday wishes to all of you, and express my unending gratitude, appreciation and support for your hard work and dedication to our Country and our freedom. You are all my heroes; thank you for keeping us safe.

Rosalynn Christian
Soldiers' Angel - Irving, TX

My very brave soldiers, you are in my prayers every night. I thank you for everything you're doing, so we are safe. My heart loves you for that always.

Veronika





Dear Troops,
Thank you so much for working so incredibly hard to make the world a better place. May you and your families be blessed for your service and sacrifice.

God Speed,
Helen S.
Park City, Utah



Thank you for all that you do. Your hard work, and sacrifices are very appreciated. You all make help make this country the best.

Joanne

I want to wish you Happy Holidays! Thanks for everything and come home soon. Stay safe.

Cheryl

Dearest Service Member,

From the bottom of my heart I wish you a safe and quiet Christmas Day! I hope things are so dull you're bored! :) God bless you and know that all of your family, friends, and people you don't even know love and miss you. We prayer for you daily!

God bless you!
Carol D.
Soldiers' Angels

Dear Soldiers,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Have a blessed Christmas season and enjoy your New Years spirit! May happy times, laughs, and special memories lighten your days. Your safety is on my list to Santa. And I've been a good girl this year, so Santa's not giving me coal.

Sincerely,
Maggie

Hi,
My name is Cindie W---- from Kansas, and I just wanted to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!! Hope the best for you all :)

Take care,
Cindie W---- & Family

I wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, a Happy whatever holiday you are celebrating. May you soon be home with your loved ones. And I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your sacrifices you have made to help keep this great country of ours free.

Marcie C.
one of the Soldiers Angels

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I want to thank you for serving our country and for making it safe for us here at home. Hope you get to come home soon. My husband and I are so very proud of you for what you do.

Merry Christmas
De Etta and Jerry from Nebraska

HELLO TO ALL YOU GUYS AND GALS, THIS IS YOUR OHIO FRIEND WISHING EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU'NS A MERRY CHRISTMAS, I TRULY LOVE EACH AND AM PRAYING FOR EACH. I AM HERE IF ANYONE AT ALL NEEDS ME, JUST WRITE IF YOU CAN,OTHERWISE I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY.GOD BLESS ALL.
YOUR OHIO FRIEND
AUDIS

Christmas Greetings to all the great Servicemen and Women In Iraq!
God bless and keep you all safe and give you many blessings in 2008 !
Thank you for all you do each day for your country.

Sincerely,
Barbara M.
Soldiers' Angel from NY


HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
hope y'all are safe, warm n healthy.
our thoughts n prayers are with y'all.
merry merry n take care,

~tae
Soldier / Marine Angel

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!
Any way you celebrate this season, know that we are thinking of you, wishing you the very best. YOU are the best. Great job, and we will welcome you home when you can get here.

Thank You, and we love all of you.

Jean E. and Family (soldiersangels.org)

Dear Troops,

Just wanted to thank you for your continued sacrifice and service to our country. I put the flag out every day and ask for God's protection for each and every one of you. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and thank God for your bravery.

For all the Christmases yet to come,
For the soldiers who stand fast,
Please join me sending Heavenward,
A prayer for peace at last.

Merry Christmas and God Bless You!

Catherine M.
Soldier's Angel
Stockton, California

Dear Soldier,

We want to thank you for the sacrifices you are making. We appreciate all you are doing. We wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Laurie & Steve

Renton, WA

Dearest Troops,

You've been doing the impossible all year so I know you are going to find a way to have a great holiday season. Merry Christmas or Merry-whatever-you-may-celebrate. And as always, THANKS for all that you do.

All our best,
The Rickels of Highland, MI

Dear Soldier,

I want to thank you for your Christmas gift....

I know it is only for your allegiance to keep our country safe from harm, that I am allowed to treasure my freedom without a care. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't stop to think of your's and your family's incredible sacrifices for me. At this special time of year, I hope you know that I am not alone in being grateful for the career choice that you made. I admire you more then you know. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. May Christmas Day be joyous...may it bring you a day like none other. I will be thinking of you...

Merry Christmas Brave Heart! May the coming year be filled be all the things you dream of.

God Bless you and your family and thank you for the wonderful gift of FREEDOM!
Donna P.
Rockport, Texas

A very special Merry Christmas and Happy holidays to all of the true heroes from the USA .

Barbara T.
Hugs and kisses to all of you.

To all of our wonderful Troops serving our country, I just want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and hope to see you come home soon. I pray for all of you and you are always on my mind. I have a son that was in Afghanistan 16 months and only God and prayers helped me thru those long months. God Bless all of you and never forget that there are a lot of proud Americans waiting to greet you when you come home.

Martha F.
Proud American Mom,
Odessa, Texas

MY FAMILY AND I WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL OF OUR TROOPS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS.WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO LET YOU ALL KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS EVERY DAY.THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HARD WORK, TIME AND MANY SACRIFICES. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES.

LOVE
THE DAVIS FAMILY

Happy Holidays to all the wonderful Heroes out there!!!! May peace and joy be yours now and throughout the coming year. May God bless and protect you until you come home to your families.

If I had a million dollars, I'd send you all whatever your hearts desired. But since I'm not, I'll do the next best thing-I'll have a great big snowman built in your honor, and I'll keep a candle burning until you all come home and I will say a lot of prayers. You are all so very awesome.

Thank you for all you have given so that we back home can celebrate this glorious season as we choose with our families. Your bravery, courage and selflessness is commendable. You have made me proud to be an American.

Lots of love, hugs and cheer from a Soldiers' Angel in Western NY-
Bonnie S.

To All of Our Troops:
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

You are in our thoughts and prayers daily, and we are forever grateful for your
service to our country.

A Soldiers Angel Family in Virginia


Hi my name is Kris A. and I'm a Soldier's Angel from Riverside, Rhode Island. I wanted to let you know, brave hero, that you are in my thoughts and my prayers each and every single day. I cannot thank you enough for everything that you have done, given and sacrificed for this great country, me and my family, and our SWEET PRECIOUS Freedom. Were it not for you and brave heroes like yourself this great country could never, would never exist. It is YOU that makes our way of life possible and I cannot thank you enough.

Extra prayers, support and loads of extra Angel Hugs are being sent your way this Holiday Season. Wish I could hug each and every one of you and tell you in person how much your service means to me. God bless you brave warrior. God bless each and every hero defending us today, God bless each and every wounded warrior and their families who continue to sacrifice so very much and God bless the families of the heroes who have paid the ultimate price for us. None shall ever be forgotten. God bless America.

Happy Holidays and a Happy - SAFE - New Year to you. All of my respect, admiration and gratitude to you all.

Kris A., Riverside RI

Wherever you are....know that you are not forgotten!! You are all in our thoughts this holiday and every single day!! Though you are far from home, I am sure that everyone around the United States sends their hugs, support and love!

Have a great Christmas and a WONDERFUL NEW YEAR OF 2008!!!
Be Safe, Be Well,
Marty in Proctor Minnesota

Just a note of thanks, doesn’t seem enough to express my feelings for what you are doing for us here at home. God Bless.

Janice O.
Riverside, CA

This message is being sent with my warmest best wishes to all you brave heroes taking care of business for these great United States. May this season find you well and may you have the inner peace that is bestowed so magically at this season. Stay safe and thank you, thank you, thank you! All my best to you and yours in the coming New Year!

Soldiers Angel Debbie J.
Overland Park, Kansas

Our family would like to wish a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year to all of our soldiers.We are very proud and thankful for the many sacrifices they so willingly make on our behalf. You are all a true American hero.May God bless each and everyone of you.
Michele and Farrel W.
San Saba, Texas






Dear American Heroes,
Thank you so much for everything you do for us everyday. There are no words to express the great amount of love and respect I have for you all. I hope that you all have the happiest of holidays and a healthy 2008.

With love and respect,
Jessica S.
Soldiers Angels California

Sending best wishes and much gratitude to our deployed men and women during the holiday season. We are always so appreciative of your service and know that many extra sacrifices are required by both deployed family members and their family when a deployment requires being far from home over the holidays. You are all in our hearts and thoughts, thank you and stay safe.

Sara
Proud Army Mom and Soldiers Angel

May no soldier go unloved.
May no soldier walk alone.
May no soldier be forgotten,
Until they all come home.

We are always worried about all the soldiers. I would like to say happy holidays to all our men and women and wish them all the very best in the coming years and that each year gets better for all of our soldiers.. I pray for all that are away and I will keep on praying until every Son and Daughter returns home. My prayers will continue forever for all the soldiers that have been wounded and that each day gets better for all.

Our hearts and thanks goes out to each and everyone of our heroes and their families..WE LOVE ALL OF YOU!!!!!!! Thank you all for keeping my grandchildren safe.

May GOD Bless You ALL...

Sincerely
Carolyn C.








Hey guys, just wanted to say we appreciate everything you do for us and thank you for bravery, Merry Christmas to you and all your families

Greetings dear American Soldier...... so far from our shores..... Soldiers Angels are saying a prayer for your safety and rapid return to the arms of your loved ones. Merry Christmas.... Happy New Year.....

Stay safe and God Bless....

Fay,
Soldiers Angel

To all our armed services away from home during the holidays:

Each gift we open during the holidays is wrapped with the freedom you so defend.
Each mouthful of dinner is the fruit of your selfless efforts and sacrifices.
We thank and remember you, during the holidays and always.

Be safe. Come home soon.
Hope R. and Family








I WANTED TO WISH EACH ONE OF YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR WITH MUCH LOVE, RESPECT FROM ME AND MY FAMILY TO YOU AND YOURS

BILLIE

Thank you for serving our country. We pray for your safe return home soon and want to wish you a Merry Christmas. May God bless you and keep you safe.

Trudie and Bob P.
Pennsylvania

Thank you for all you do! May God Bless you & your families as you serve our beautiful nation. Merry Christmas you are in our thoughts in prayers year round!

Sara S. & Ty R.
Kountze, TX








You all are in our thoughts and prayers everyday. May the Good Lord keep each of you safe always. My family and I send Christmas wishes to you and say THANK YOU for your service to our country and your dedication to the fight for freedom.

With sincere gratitude,
Susan M.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah To All Our Military

Just a message of love and encouragement to our deployed Hero's and Shero's. You are much thought of and prayed for throughtout the year from all of us citizens here stateside. Know we love you and we appreciate all you do for us. Stay safe, keep your helmet on and kick more terrorist butt.

With Love-
Carol B. and Family
Greenwood, SC

To All Soldiers,
I want to wish you a Merry Christmas , and a Happy New year.....I pray that you stay safe, are victorious, and come home proud soon. Thank you for your service, and your sacrifices. God bless, and good luck.

Sincerely,
John Dean (SA)







Merry Christmas To All of Our Brave Soldiers,

Thank you so very much for your amazing bravery and dedication to our wonderful country. My family is deeply touched by the great sacrifices you brave soldiers are willing to make for your homeland. My family and all Americans are so proud and so Blessed to live in this USA where very courageous soldiers like all of you make it possible for our families to experience the freedoms that we do. Always remember you are all truly American heroes! America is so very proud of you, America loves you! May God Bless and protect you and your families.

Merry Christmas!
Debbie S. and Family

Thank you for making this and every holiday special for us back home who are waiting for your arrival. You are all loved and missed and all Heroes to us back home.
Happy Holidays Our Dear Precious Gifts From Above.

The Smith-Mullens Family
Indiana Soldier's Angels


Thank you for all you've done and the sacrifices you have made to keep us safe. It's hard being away from friends and family during the holidays, but please know that you will be in our hearts and prayers. You are a true hero.

Merry Christmas!
Scott and Becky P.







I would like to take the time to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service to our country. Thank you for protecting us Americans so we can sleep safely at night while you are working 24 hours a day. May you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. And I pray that you all have a safe homecoming to all of your friends and family.

Thank you and Merry Christmas from our family,
Travis, Leslie, Sara, Cameron, Matthew and Christine

Dear Brave Men and Women!

We Americans Love and Pray for all of you. You are remembered with all due respect and Love this Holiday Season. If many of us could, we would come there to celebrate with You and take care of you this Holiday season.

God Bless you to keep you Safe, Healty and Happy! I ask God to get you home soon and safetly.

Lots of Love and Happiest of Holidays,

Love,
Donna

To Our Noble Military

May this special time of year bless you and your family and bring you comfort while apart.

May the Creator of all things place His hand upon you and hold you near His heart. May the spirit of the season extend over the world and love replace the hatred that breeds wars. Though you may not be home, our hearts and prayers are with you wherever you are.

With deep appreciation for your great sacrifice and service, we wish you a meaningful Christmas with God's mercy on you and your family.

Soldiers' Angel Jane C.
Eaton, Colorado







MERRY CHRISTMAS,GOD BLESS AND REMEMBER GOD LOVES YOU AND SO DO I !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I pray that sometimes during the Christmas season you can find a minute to spend in quiet to speak with our Lord and Saviour. I would like to say thank you for your sacrifices, may God continue to keep you safe.

Merry Christmas
Tina R.
Vicksburg, MS

Dear Soldiers:

I want to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Just becuase you are far away from home you are in our hearts. It is becuae of your duty and sacrifice, we Americans have the freedom that we have today.

Susan E.
Linden, NJ







Dear Ones,

We wish each of you the very best life has to offer. We hold you in our thoughts and prayers.

We fully support you all in all your efforts and wish you good health and peace.

Very sincerely,
Paul and Phyllis W.
Bartlesville, OK

Best wishes for a very Merry Christmas to all the young men and women who have served our nation and have protected me and y family. You are in our prayers.

Chris M.

Thinking about you, praying for you and appreciate EVERYTHING you are doing for our Country!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Respectfully, Linda D.
Frankfort, Kentucky







Hello Troops,

Our family wishes you a joyous Christmas and Happy New Year. Please be safe and we hope you get some time to do something you enjoy over the holidays. Thank you for serving our country.

Christine, Karen, Courtney & Bridget
Pottstown, PA

We want to Wish everyone there a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Here in Spokane, Washington,
Renee & Mark L.

HI and Merry Christmas to all our Deployed and their families,

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your continued efforts and sacrifice for all Americans. I am a music teacher in a very small town in Maine (Appleton), and every concert here begins with students and audience all singing our National Anthem. Our Christmas concert program also acknowledges and asks for thoughts and prayers for our troops. You are not forgotten. We love you and are praying for your success and safe homecoming.

Love to you and yours,
Wendy T.







Merry Christmas!
May God bless and protect you!

Thank you for all you do everyday of the year. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you will able to come home soon to your friends and family. Merry Christmas and I hope their will be peace in the New Year.
Be safe.

Warmly,

Donna M. C.

Hey I'm ten years old and I just wanted to support the troops and say God bless you all...and I just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy Happy New Year

XOXO
KEERA




Dear Soldiers,
My family and I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas. I wish you could all be home with your loved ones. Thank you all for doing the HARDEST job in the world - keeping our country free and safe. May your Christmas day shine with peace even if only for one day. You are all in our prayers!

Merry Christmas from us to all of you!

Soldiers' Angel Carol

To everyone serving this great country:

Happy Holidays....be safe and you are in our prayers...Happy New Year

Peace n Hugs (La pace n Abbraccia)

Ann

To our men and women in Service:

Thank you for all you do every day for our country. We wish you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS, and a New Year filled with peace for all of us. You are all heros!!

The Lattner Family
New Jersey





Hey everybody! Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Hope everybody is having a good day today and that all of you are enjoying your holiday season in your own way!! I wish you all a beautiful, peaceful time and that you will all continue to recover and feel better every day! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the sacrifices you have endured for my freedoms! I never forget or take it for granted!! Bless you all and Happy New Year! 2008!! WOO! WOO! YEAH BABY!

TO ALL THE WONDERFUL MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE SERVED OUR
COUNTRY SO PROUDLY.

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART.

MANY BLESSINGS FOR THE NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!

FROM,

ELSIE

Wishing each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas, and praying to welcome you home in the New Year!





My family and I want to wish everyone over there and stationed around the world a Very MERRY CHRISTMAS and A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Soldier Angel Nancy V. and Family

Dear Soldiers,

I wanted to send you some holiday cheer and let you know how much i appreciate everything you all have done for our country you all are true heroes. Merry Christmas Soldiers and make it home safe.. We wish you all the best.. Happy Holidays and god bless you all..

May God watch over each and everyone of you...

Thanks,
Erica N.

Thank you for all that you do everyday over there! We appreciate you! Thank you for serving your country!

You are not forgotten!

Linda M.
Charlotte, NC





Greetings from Kansas City, Missouri! This Christmas, my family and I will be writing cards and letters to those of You who are working to protect our rights, including being able to celebrate the way we want during holiday seasons, and assisting other peoples, enriching their lives. While you may not be sitting next to your loved ones for the holidays that we all enjoy, know that there are folks who are thinking of you, and raising their glasses in your honor. Thank You All so much.

Sincerely,
A Supportive Citizen

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all our brave soildiers

I love each and every one of you for being so far away from home and

Protecting us!

Audrey F.

The Spisso Family sends you lots of happy thoughts and big "Angel" hugs to help bring you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Bless New Year. Be Safe, God Bless and thank you for being our country's finest.

Brian & Vicki,
Soldiers' Angels New Jersey - USA





Merry Christmas

Thank you for all you do

MJ B.

Hi!!!!!
Just wanted to wish you a very "MERRY CHRISTMAS" and a HEALTHY, SAFE, and HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!! And to also let you know I'll be praying for you and the others in Iraq that you will be home soon.

But until then, take care, be safe and remember to keep looking "UP" to our Heavenly Father, cause HE will be all you need.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS And AMERICA-Please Bless OUR LORD.
Amen.....

Rose W.

Hi to all of you,

It mustn't seem much like Christmas where you are but please know that many are thinking of you and praying for your safe return to your home and family. I understand it's winter over there. I don't know what winter is like in Iraq but in Pittsburgh, PA there's snow on the ground with the promise of freezing rain, sleet, and then more snow.

I pray that wherever you are and whatever you are doing, you will still feel a little bit of Christmas in your heart. My husband is a Vietnam Vet with a Purple Heart. He cares very much for each of you and what you are doing. Thank you for all you are doing for me, my family, and our country.

Merry Christmas
Kathie




Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of our heroes fighting in Iraq! We are very proud of you and wish you a wonderful Christmas. May God bless and watch over you and your family.

Donna & Jimmie W.
Weatherford, TX

HEY SOLDIERS,
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE SMITH FAMILY IN PINSON ALABAMA!!!!!

I just couln't pass up the opportunity to wish you a peaceful, safe Christmas. And most of all to thank you for all you are doing for this great country. I cannot begin to understand all that you have sacraficed for me...but I can say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. GOD BLESS YOU and I pray that you return home safely and that it will be soon.





I want you to know that I am so grateful for all you are doing for us here at home. I have you all in my prayers May God Bless and keep you all, safe until you are able to come home to us again.

Merry Christmas to each and every member of our Armed Forces. Thank you for all you do to protect and serve our country. May God watch over all of you and bring you home safe and soon.

With love
Soldiers' Angel
Donya C.

Dear American Hero. Thank you for serving our country. I wish you and your family the very best during this holiday season and for the new year.

Mary Ann B.
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

Happy Holidays to all of you stationed in Iraq keeping all of us here at home safe. I know how difficult it must be at this time of the year to be away from your family and friends. You are truly our heroes. Wishing you a speedy and safe return.

Diane S.
Soldiers’ Angel
Seymour, CT











The following was sent by Seamus:


PLEASE, Would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S. service men and women for our being able to celebrate these festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.

Jeff G., USN
Iraq
[rank, last name, and specific unit and location information edited by me - Pam]








Graphics in this post came from a number of locations, among them:

Christmas-graphics-plus.com
Christmas Graphics by Pat
Christmas-Graphics.com
The Wonder of Christmas
The Christmas Corner

Labels: Christmas, holidays, Soldiers' Angels, Supporting the troops, Thanks