It's going to be over 100 degrees Fahrenheit all week in Iraq. Just like it was last week and
week before. Almost 10 degrees cooler than last month, and not near as hot as typical 147 degree daytime highs. And that is only part of what our US troops go through everyday. Michael Moore's documentary, Fahrenheit 911 showed, among other things, that US troops often come from humble backgrounds. They shot recruiting scenes from ghettos, inner city projects and cities that have seen better days. Young men and women who have somehow survived their environment. People who know that they can be more if they are willing to make sacrifices. Youngsters who go, hoping and praying that they will come home alive.
Many do not have family. Some do, but spend their wages to support a family at home.
Nearly impossible, with average soldier wage of $6-7 dollars an hour.
Like most of us, I'm sure you're had moments of guilt as you enjoyed a great steak dinner, a hot shower, and an ice cold can of Coke- knowing that our soldiers are far from home and do not always have access to things we take for granted. But now, before busy shopping season is upon us, you can do something practical for these hard working soldiers.
Treats for Troops is brainchild of Deborah Crane, who was married to a soldier, had a son in Navy, and currently has a son in Air Force overseas. She realized that security concerns and complicated shipping regulations made it almost impossible for average citizens here at home to show their support and love to those on front lines. She created a web business that links needy soldiers with people willing to foster them. Sponsors can select their soldier based on home state, gender or branch of service. Deborah rotates soldiers names on a list, so that for now, it is one gift per soldier.
Deborah's goal is simple, to send a gift and make a soldier smile. And she has done that, and more by providing a safe and secure way to send a gift overseas. Her company has researched gifts that are practical, in demand and inexpensive to send.
Bill Owens, Governor of Colorado has publicly commended Deborah's efforts. Read his personal letter online: http://treatsfortroops.com/newsroom/story.php?id=8
Treats for Troops lets you do more than just wave a flag at home. And if you already have name and address of someone in military, you can specify gift is to go directly to them.
Many schools, organizations and corporations have joined in effort to warm our servicemen and women's hearts this holiday season, with a gift from home. I can't think of a nicer thing to do for someone. In return, you will either get an e-thank you or a postcard direct from soldier who received your gift. But be assured that your identity is kept confidential, so this is truly a no-risk opportunity. Everyone wins!
You can also send a card or letter from Treats for Troops website.
Because it normally takes 4-6 weeks to get a package to a soldier, NOW is time to start.
Take some time today to go over to site and read some of many letters from grateful troops. "I'm not sure how I got lucky enough to get on your mailing list, but thank you very much. I am Commander of 25th FAD in Kinkuk, Iraq. We are doing well. The support from home makes an incredible difference in our state of mind. Than you! Adam US Army" http://treatsfortroops.com/thankyou/messages.php#
