Letters from Our Troops

Scroll to the bottom of this page to read archived troops' letters

* To protect our troops and aspects of sensitive operations and force protection, G2TT follows the Department of Defense's Operations Security (OPSEC) Program

This page is undergoing construction. Missing letters and accompanying photos from 2012 will be posted soon!

Dated 14 September, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

We in Task Force Gunslinger would like to say thank you for your donations. You have brought encouragement to Soldiers and made the
deployment not so blah!

CH (CPT) Steven E. Thomas
HHC TF 2-159 ARB
U.S. Army

Dated 29 August, 2012
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Hi,

We recieved your care package about 3 weeks ago and all the guys were very grateful. We then promptly went out to the field for a live fire
exercise for a few weeks and are just now getting back to recover and do it all over again soon.

We have written some thank you cards and hope you receive them in a few days. Nearly all the items that were sent were used upalready and I made sure they were distributed fairly.

The easymac and footballs were very popular. The guys found creative ways to heat up the microwave food and the organized a company mini-tournament with the footballs. There are only a few MWR recreational places and activities here to go on, but the guys make up for things with their creativity.

Thanks so much for the banner and cards. They are inspiring some of the newer guys and reminded the older guys of their kids at home.

We really do appreciate your support.

-Tyler

SPC Tyler Cooper
A Co., 1-15 INF, 3HBCT 3ID
U.S. Army

Dated 30 April, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Hello!

Thanks so much for our cafe package filled with love and goodies. It really made my day to see a box for me here in Afghanistan. I appreciate everything that you guys do for us here. It's hard to adjust over here and really like the food they supply us. This is like Christmas for my roommates and me! My roommates were so overjoyed to see real food.

CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR ME HERE!!!!

V/R

SGT Sonja D. King, Automatic Logistic Specialist
115th ESB Bravo Company
U.S. Army

Dated 24 April, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I just wanted to say a million thank you's for the package we received from your great organization. I have shared the care package with my fellow troops, and it made us all smile and enjoy some great snacks from the States.

We've been out in Afghanistan now for a long time. After some of the days we've had here lately, your care package greatlt increased our morale and made our day

Thank you again,

SSG Matthew Madsen
3DI Technologies
U.S. Army

Dated 20 April, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I got the boxes today. You are awesome and they are just what was needed. Here are photos of us and just some of the cards and letters you sent us.

Thanks again. You are the best!

You really are the best. Thanks for everything.

Love,

SFC Charles Ahlborn
NATO Special Projects
U.S. Army

Dated 8 April, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your two care packages. My squad and I look forward to receiving mail after a long convoy. It put a smile on my face and on my entire squad's faces to see a care package waiting for us after we returned from a mission. Thank you again for all your support back home. I don't know if we could do this without your support.

V/R

SGT Sara Baxter
A Co., 172D SB,2nd Squad, Transportation Platoon
U.S. Army

Dated 28 February, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for the great care package and the letters. The items went faster than I could open the box. With the current situation over here we do not get many supplies and care package runs are like manna from heaven - literally some times.

I used to have a small shelf that I would put items from care packages on in my office and people would take what they want, but over the last
month it's hard to get them out the box let alone on the shelf. I have been requesting more healthy style things so that would force the team
to eat better as we have 6 months left here and want them to slim down for their loved ones before they get home.

Again, thanks for all the great stuff and look forward to keeping in touch.

V/R

CPT Eric Kuyper, SC, S3 Operations Chief
3-401st
U.S. Army

Dated 28 February, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is CPT John Rigsbee and I just recently recieved a care package from G2TT and wanted to extend my Soldiers and my thanks for the items that were donated. The package was lost for a month in the mailing system out here because we recently moved from our initial area in North Western Afghanistan to the South past xxxxx (OPSEC).

We successfully completed our mission out west and were able to return the majority of the provinces back to the Afghan government's care. We were needed down South where more kinetic activity continues to take place. We thank you so much for the items that were included. The items for females were immediately snatched up since I am in command of a Headquarters unit that has a larger number of females integrated into it.

The protein, treats, and other various items were also greatly appreciated by my troops. I was unable to get a picture of them opening the box because I had to head back out west after it had arrived. I am back down south with my unit, but continue to move around, helping the coordination efforts of our moving units.

Again, I just wanted to express my thanks to you all, and if possible extend a HUGE THANKS to Cheshire High School that included letters and cards with the package.

Thank you again for all that you do to support us out here.

Sincerely,
CPT John Rigsbee, CDR HHT
BDE HHT 2BCT, 4ID
U.S. Army

Dated 2 February, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks so much for the care package we received from your organization. My unit is currently deployed to northern Afghanistan at a small remote base run by the Sweedish Army. There is no PX or any sort of store here at all. We're about a 1.5 hour flight to get to any base to get necessities, which hasn't been done since we've been here ( a long time)

It's the generosity from organizations like yours, family and friends who send us packages that get us through. We have xxx (OPSEC) Soldiers here and I'm sure they all were able to get their hands into your very large box to get some goodies.

It's tough being away from family, in a war zone, but the love we feel from so many of our country men and women make it go by a little easier. Thanks again Andi and Give 2 the Troops.

We will be in country a little while longer.
Thanks again, God Bless.
CW2 David Stewart
C co 2-227 AVN
U.S.Army

Dated 20 January, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!! We here in the 58th Mp Company received our first box from you in the mail today. The smiles, the laughter, the joy your organization has brought to this area of Afghanistan is simply amazing!! We can not thank you enough!!! The simple things like soap seem so small, but is so much appreciated and enjoyed it is so thoughtful and considerate!!

The snacks went like hot cakes!! I do have a few pics I will try and send to you, the internet is very sketchy at times though.

The letters and cards from the kids are awesome!!! Is nice to know we are appreciated and thought of. A lot of people forget we are here not by choice, but as following orders and trying to uphold our beliefs and our great country!

Once again,
Thank you all so very much!!!

SSG Christopher Fessenden
HQ Plt 58th MP Co
U.S. Army

Dated 17 January, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just received 4 huge boxes from you here at FOB xxxxxx (OPSEC). The guys and I are very humbled by your generousity and support. When I asked you for a printer back in November I never imagined how much more you would do for our unit with all the wonderful things that Give 2 the Troops has provided to us. The cards and letters from children and adults make us grateful for opportunity to serve in the U.S. Military for such a wonderful country as the U.S. of America.

Please send our appreciation to everyone who has taken the time to write to us and send care packages.

Thank you again

With love,

SSG Danny Nolan
246th Firefighting Detachment

Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 13 January, 2012
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you for taking the time to put together an awesome care package for my Squad and me. The package came a few days before Christmas. I
was shocked and delighted to such a huge box with my name on it. It is organizations like yours that let us know we are appreciated and thought of by people other than our families. The package was a success. Thank you very much for thinking about us during the Christmas Holiday. I hope you had a nice Christmas and have a Happy 2012.

Thanks again!

SSG Shelton L. Stansbury

U.S. Army

Dated 3 January, 2012

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for everything. I recognize how much time and effort must have been placed into putting together all those care packages for us. During the holidays while we're all away from home, it means a lot to know people are still thinking about us back in the states. It's a great morale boost for my marines and the stocking were a classy touch for the Christmas season.

For a lot of Marines in my platoon, this is their first time overseas away from family and loved ones. The only thing we really have out here binding us together is each other - but I think we all take comfort in the fact there are people devoted to remind us we're appreciated.
Thank you for everything and may this New Year bring happiness to you all.

Sincerely,
Cpl Reilly P. Brennan
MWSS-371 H&S CO, MP PLT
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 December, 2011
Afganistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We recently received a box from your organization today and it was completely LOADED down with all kinds of goodies and wonderful holiday cheer! Thank you so much from all of us here at D Co 2/227 for keeping our spirits up and showing us such awesome support during the holiday season!! We really do appreciate the support and prayers! I attached some pictures to add to your web site for you!! Thanks for everything!!

Sincerely,

SGT Kevin Cundiff
D co 2/227 Avn Regt
U.S. Army

Dated 30 December, 2011
United States of America

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your care packages and especially the pillow cases made by the "Dream Team Moms" in Connecticut.

My fiancée and I are both veterans and we both were medically discharged from the Marine Corps for injuries. Don't worry - my fiancée had the surgery for his ankle and he's doing extremely well.

I broke my hip and I'm currently in a wheelchair, but I'm working with doctors and starting to use the walker a little.

We love the pillowcases sooo much, not only are they absolutely beautiful and patriotic, but I can see all the love and support that went into them. You have no idea how much it means to me to have support from people who don't even know us. It's like having a bigger family.

Aagain, thank you sooo much and we hope you have the best holidays ever.

With so much gratitude,
Brittany Pratt and Kyle
Wounded Marine Corps Veterans

Dated 26 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

First - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I received your box on Christmas Eve here in Afghanistan. Thank you and everyone that helped. It was very nice and thoughtful.

My shop is all guys and they got a kick out of the bikini bottoms you sent us as a joke. Thanks for the laughs.

Thank you again,

SFC Donald H. Alt
25th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB)

U.S. Army

December 2011
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS - VA Medical Center

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut)

Dated 25 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received an awesome care package from Andi Grant and your Connecticut Branch. My Marines would like to personally thank her and for starting this organization. I'm including a photo for all of you.

Cpl DeJon Paris
2nd Supply Co. BN (-) REIN
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

Merry Christmas. My name is Corporal Steven Slaughter. I am currently deployed to Afghanistan. I received your care package today. We all thank you very much.

Soon, we'll be leaving here and on our way home.

Thank you for your great support and generosity. My Marines really enjoyed the package and everything with it.

Respectfully,
Cpl Steven B. Slaughter
2 MAW MALS-40 670
U.S. Marine Corps

December 2011
Afghanistan

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

25th Signal Battalion
U.S. Army

December 2011
Afghanistan

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

CDR Andrew A. Wade (USMC)
RCT-7 (Regimental Combat Team), Chaplain Unit
U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps

December 2011
Afghanistan

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

NATO Training Mission (NTM)
U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for your care packages. They arrived just in time for Christmas. The Soldiers enjoyed everything about the packages. Your organization is doing a wonderful job. Please thank everyone for their hard work. We do not have any type of PX since we're not at a Forward Operating Base. Many of the items you sent us are hard to come by. I've attached a photo of our team for YOUR team.

Thank you again,
MAJ Craig E. Turner, Executive Officer / Senior Mentor Advisor
CJTF-1 ANA RSC-EAST
U.S. Army

Dated 15 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to extend a great big "thank you" on behalf of my unit and myself. The care packages that you sent us were amazing. I ensured that they were handed out to the Soldier's and anyone needing anything received something!

You have touched my heart and the hearts of many Soldiers. I can tell that it truly makes their days much more pleasant. The support we have from you is invaluable and we thank you for sending us all you do.

As the Holiday season nears, so does the anticipation and realization we will be apart from our families and friends. I ask you, if possible, to keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this time. As this will be mine and many other's first, second, and even third time being away from our families during the Holidays.

Fortunately, not too long after the Holiday season, we will begin our return back stateside. There is always light in every dark situation.

Again, thank you for your continued support through the care packages you send us. And thank you for your prayers, letters, and cards. Our return home cannot come soon enough. The moment we return and have boots on American soil, will definitely be a good day! With your assistance though, our days are much more enjoyable. Thank You and have a Blessed Holiday Season!

Warmly,

SPC Kerry M.K. Lynch
1-168th GSAB
U.S. Army

Dated 13 December, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

CPT Doug Trippany
Law and Order Detachment
U.S. Army

Dated 12 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the care packages! On behalf of the Role 1 Clinic in xxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan, I would like to thank you for the care packages you have sent. I thank God for loving individuals like you and I am very grateful for your kindness in taking the time to send food, magazines, snacks, and other comfort items to share with the Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines here in xxxx (Afghanistan).

Attached are a few pictures of the clinic staff. I am the clinical psychologist and there are other doctors, medics, techs, and patients who have benefited from your care packages.

We all wish you a very blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

God Bless,

CPT Melissa A. Munro, Clinical Psychologist
KAIA Role 1 Clinic
U.S. Army

December 2011
Afghanistan

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

Special Forces Religious Team
U.S. Army

Dated 8 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I personally want to thank you for all your support and to wish you a very Merry and Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

V/r,
TSgt Byron Owens
LOGCOM

U.S. Air Force

Dated 2 December, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am writing to thank you for the package I received. It was a big hit with all of my Soldiers, specially the xbox 360 games, PSP games,
movies and magazines. The other things that they were asking about was monster drinks and Gatorade/powerade powder.

v/r
SGT Brian K. Wallace,
3BCT, 10th MTN DIV (LI)
U.S. Army

Dated 30 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch and Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to personally thank you for the support that you have given to us and the U.S military members deployed in Afghanistan. We are away from our families and our loved ones this holiday season.

We just received the care packages from you guys yesterday. The support your organization has shown truly means a lot - especially the Tempur-Pedic® pillows you sent us.

We we had really good night sleep last night!. Thank you for all you do, and please pass all our thanks to those who have put time and effort into this. We know many people are involved!

May you have a wonderful holiday season.

V/R,
SSG Sung T. Kim
IJC CJ2 CJ2X, NKAIA
U.S. Army

Dated 29 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank your organization for all your support. I received a package from your Give2TheTroops today that had a variety of items from hygiene gear to snacks.

My Marines were very happy to get the box and it greatly improved morale. Once again, thank you and have a great day.

R/S,

MSgt Joseph W. Kelly, Chief
MACS-2 METOC
U.S. Marine Corps

November 2011
Afghanistan

Presented to Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch) and accompanied by an American flag

MISOTF - A Ops ( Military Information Operations Task Force)
U.S. Army

Dated 27 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!!

When I received your large care package, everyone crowded around to see what we got. It was a lot! Wow! We were all excited. We hung up the Christmas stockings and hats with the bell on doors and we put the Santa Clause on the table in the center so everyone can see. I read all the cards and want to thank everyone that made one! It really put a smile on my face. I received 2 photos and many cards from young children - so cute.

All the hygiene gear you sent was great - thank you. A lot of people said they were running low on certain items so you sent this box right on time. I would send photos of the decorations you gave us, but I work in the COC, so it's very secretive.

KEEP IN TOUCH, PLEASE!

LCpl Kiah K. Mallory
II MEF FWD CLB-6
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just got a package from you today. Thanks so much! I'm actually from Vernon, CT and part of the 103rd Airlift Wing out of East Granby, CT. We're here in Afghanistan handling various Civil Engineering projects all over the country. Most of the guys are sent to really small FOB and COBs for anywhere from a few days to many weeks. A lot of these places are quite "spartan."

Your gift is going to make all of us happy for a while.

Thanks again!

SSgt Derek Egerman
103rd Airlift Wing
Connecticut Air National Guard

Dated 20 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My unit received two boxes of goodies today. I cannot convey the happiness and joy they brought. The guys/gals really appreciate the good your organization gives back to the troops. Keep up the great work we really love it. God bless and keep you all.

MSgt Terrill L. Coley, Specialist NCOIC

455 EAMXS/Strike/Specs

U.S. Air Force

Dated 10 November, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi. I just received a package from G2TT this morning. I just wanted to say thank you and let you know that I will be donating to your organization to help cover some of your costs.

I wanted to send you a photo, but due to certain security reasons, I'm unable to post a photo of my current location.

Again, thanks for the package and for all of your support.

Respectfully,

SSgt Joseph Luera
22nd Special Tactics Squadron
U.S. Air Force

Dated 6 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package of snacks, phone cards and iTunes® gift cards. Everything was welcomed by my unit and me.

I've beein in the Army for 20 years and this is my 4th tour overseas. I've traveled to Bosnia, Kuwait and Iraq twice. It has been a good experience for me and has made me stronger.

Thank you for the efforts you have accomplished in your large Give2TheTroops organization. I commend your support. I'm looking forward to leaving the "Sandbox".

I'd love to help out with your organization when I return back to the States.

Please send me your contact information so that I may volunteer my time for your Mission.

Thank you again,
MSG Barbara Quenneville
TF804 MED
U.S. Army Reserve (Connecticut)

Dated 5 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 4 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

MAJ Arnean Smith

HHC 7th SUS BDE
U.S. Army

Dated 3 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

7th SB, Medical Section

Dated 3 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

SSG Lewis
7th SB, Medical Section

Dated 1 November, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

How are you? First I want to introduce myself as SSgt Joshua Cyr, permanently stationed at Cannon AFB, NM but now currently deployed with roughly xxx (OPSEC) individuals who maintain our wonderful fleet of C-130s. I wish I could tell you more but unfortunately due to our OPSEC I can't
say much.

Secondly, I just want to thank you so much for the wonderful package that was sent to our Airmen at the 27 ESOG! Some of us will be
here for the holidays and some of us will be rotating out. Unfortunately I will be here for the holidays, and I want to make it a
memorable one for our airmen. I was here last year as well during this time and during the holidays, but unfortunately I had to deal with bigger family issues.

We are greatly appreciative of all the items that you sent. The box we received had lots of needed stuff that we are unable to get
around here. It is a blessing to have such wonderful people to make a difference in our World! When I read over Andi's letter that was sent,
it is true about the car magnets. I go home and I see my family sporting the magnet as well. Yet they have given two sons to the United States Air Force, one being myself and my twin brother who is stationed in Germany. They have given a lot to our wonderful Country and we are the living proof.

Andi - I just want to thank you so greatly for being such a wonderful and inspirational woman and for raising your great son to understanding that making a difference takes effort and time and helps you appreciate things in life.

Thank you,
SSgt JoshuaC. Cyr

PRG 6-16D, CJSOAD
U.S. Air Force

Dated 29 October, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hey, we got a package from your organization today and we just wanted to say thank you all from the Marines at JSAS at Camp xxxx (OPSEC) for everything that ya'll do. It really is a great morale booster to get letters and all the snack stuff.

The packages were sent to another Marine in our unit. I just had the camera so I wrote to ya'll the thank you and sent the picture.

Unfortunately, we will not be going ho me until a date that is past Christmas. The job that we have here requires a year long deployment.

Thanks again.

OOORAH SEMPER FI!!!!!!!!

Cpl Donald Banks
2nd MHG, JSAS (Joint Sustainment Academy Southwest)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 October, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received some more boxes from you today! I enjoyed spreading the contents and taking these photos for you - especially of the Halloween and Thanksgiving items you sent us which actually arrived BEFORE the holidays!

Please feel free to post them on FaceBook and your G2TT web site! More will be coming!

Now you've gotten us pretty excited for Christmas. This time it looks like it will be enjoyable thanks to Give2TheTroops, rather then my 2008 Christmas when I was deployed and just stayed in my room.

Thanks so much again!

Love,
James

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 October, 2011
Djibouti, Africa

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to send out a HUGE thank you for the wonderful box that we received here in Djibouti. It was like Christmas in September! The girls and I really appreciate all you do.

The Military Working Dogs appreciated the new Kong® toys, too. They are the only toys that they are allowed to play with (they tend to destroy everything else.)

A little about us: We consist of 3 women that are Army Public Health Command, Veterinary Services and 8 men that are medical and part of the Camp Navy Force Surgeon Office. We are all active duty from all over the country. We're all here for several more months. The Navy typically does a six month rotation and they are all on different redeploy dates; us Vet folks do a full year and we'll all leave at the same time.

Djibouti is a very interesting place. The heat is CRAZY, hitting a heat index of 135°+ every day during the months of June/July/Aug. I never thought I would ever be able to live thru temps like that! I realized that the key is to accept that you will sweat like a man, and it's all good. We go thru 8-12 bottles of water a day, each. The weather has gotten so much cooler within the past month. We rarely go above 110° with the heat index and at 0500, it's almost cool at 85-90 degrees.

MWR does what they can to keep us happy, but you can imagine that the games and cards go through a lot of wear and tear. When I make requests I try to ask for stuff that would benefit the most so if I could, I would like to request new ping pong paddles, pool balls or cards and dominoes. I've been able to add over 250 books to our MWR library through your donations. Right now we have many, many troops living in tents (with as many as 64 occupants per tent) so they tend to spend a lot of time at the MWR locations.

We really don’t need too much food… the Galley feeds us pretty good!

Thank you again for all that you do! I will be happy to answer any questions that OPSC allows.

v/r,
SSG Alicia J. Altman

Veterinary Services and US Customs, Appointment Manager

CJTF-HOA, Surgeon Cell

U.S. Army

Dated 6 October, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi there! Thank you sooooo much for all the wonderful items that you all sent us. We surely appreciate them! God Bless and Best Wishes to all of you at Give2TheTroops and to your donors and volunteers!

SFC Gilbert
USFI, DCG A&T, CMD Group
U.S. Army

Dated 5 October, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to let you know that boxes that we received from you are greatly appreciated. We can't thank you enough for what you do. If it were not for the care packages that you sent, some of us would have never gotten anything at all. Our hats are off to you and what you do!

Again, thank you from all of us,

CPT Patricia D. Cooley
44th CBRN
U.S. Army

Dated 4 October, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to let you know we just got a couple of huge boxes from you. Thank you so much! All the assortment of goodies, hygiene gear, and those awesomeTemperpedic pillows. Everything went like hot cakes.

I opened the boxes and said come and get it, and they practically tore the boxes apart to get to everything fast enough. Thank you for the boost of morale. Hope all is well with you back in the states.

R/S

GySgt Thomas R. Conklin, HAZMAT Chief
RC (SW) C-7, II MEF
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 4 October, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received four large boxes of goodies today from you. Thank you!

I will be donating two boxes to the local schools with the school supplies, one box to a medical clinic and the other is going to a pantry where soldiers and those on camp can utilize those items. Once again, you did exceedingly more than I thought, I will have to send pictures once we distribute the items. Thank you again!

God Bless You!
Very Respectfully,

SPC Teresa Lynch
HHC 40th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 3 October, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received the 2 boxes that were sent to me and my platoon! The one with baseball stuff from Give2The Troops, with items from the Wilder Family. We really enjoyed and appreciated the snacks, Girl Scout cookies and other assorted items. Thank you all so much! I will send pictures soon of our Route Clearance Platoon!

SGT Christopher Martin
A Co 3/1 STB TF Valiant
U.S. Army

Dated 29 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hey! We received a care package from your organization today and we just wanted to say thank you for everything that ya'll do. It really is a great morale booster to get letters and all the snack stuff.

From the Marines at JSAS - OOORAH! SEMPER FI!!!!!!!

CPl Donald Banks
JSAS (Joint Sustainment Academy Southwest)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi! Thank you for your support with the much needed care packages. They are true morale boosters!

Thank you again,
V/R,
SSG Grady Moody
530th EN CO / 8th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 23 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the gifts that you sent us. It really boosted our morale to have received your wonderful gifts. Once again, thank you and have a blessed day.

Thanks,
Diwani Timberlake
FSC 8th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 23 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops(Oregon/Washington Branch),

Greetings,

On behalf of all the Field Artillery Soldiers here at our base in Afghanistan, thank you. We received our care package today, July 4th; it was an unsuspected and wonderful treat. I cannot begin to express our appreciation or gratitude for everything your organization is doing for our deployed military. Our best wishes are with you and yours.

Again, thank you so much.

Respectfully,
SFC Matthew L. Castaldo
506th Infantry Regiment, 101st ABN DIV
U.S. Army

Dated 23 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you very, very, very, very, very much for your care packages!

You're the best! I, along with everyone in my Company, greatly appreciate all that you do for us as well as your support!

SPC James Johnson, Jr.
530th EN CO / 8th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 22 September 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you very much for your generous gift of trail and drink mixes. When our Chaplain gets mail, half the crew waits around his door thinking and waiting to see what new goodies he has waiting for us. After mail call everyone’s faces light up like kids on Christmas Morning. Thank you again for the warm thought that when into your package.

Seaman Peoples
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 22 September 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thanks for your support of the troops. We really appreciate what you guys do for us while we are deployed.

Please give dsome special thanks to your volunteers: Joann, Amanda, Diane, Stacie, Shirley, Elaine, Mark, and Jim for assembling our care packages.

God bless you,
Respectfully

PO2 Felix Alba
HSC-23 DET-3, USS BRIDGE (T-AOE 10)
U.S. Navy

Dated 21 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My unit received a box from your organization today and I must say it is the BEST box we have ever received! There were so many things in the care package that our Soldiers loved. I just wanted to let you know that we have been here for manymonths and have several more to go and this box was a great boost in the morale of our troops.

We have not received a lot of boxes this deployment. I can tell things have really slowed down since my first deployment in 2004. I really wanted to say thank you for continuing to stand with us during this long and drawn out war.

Who would believe that a tube of lip balm or a beef stick could make the day of an American Soldier? Well, you and all who support your efforts, have made our day great!

Thanks,
CH (MAJ) Tom E. Allen, Chaplain
7th Sustainment Brigade
U.S. Army

Dated 17 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for the generous care package that you sent. The items were passed out to all of my Soldiers. On behalf of everyone in my section, I would like to thank you and everyone who helped.

Thanks,
CPT Michael Ellichman
HHC/40th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 16 September, 2011
In the United States - formerly deployed to Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi Ms. Grant,

You probably don't remember me, but I was in Afghanistan 2006-2007 and while I was there YOU personally helped me get a ruck sack that I needed. I still remember you and your organization today. You really make a difference in helping out deployed soldiers.

Thank you and God Bless,
Martin Alvear-Jasso
U.S. Army

Dated 15 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the boxes of goodies you sent to us. The K-9 unit especially loved the food and dog toys you sent. We loved the pudding and Slim Jims as they're small snacks that we can carry with us while we're out on a mission. We really appreciate everything! ♥

Thanks,
Marsha Clark
FSC 8th EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 12 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for one of the best care packages ever received by the soldiers here in TK! I was so suprised when I opened it up and started separating the snacks from the body care products. Your organization is one of the best and from our small FOB to your hearts we thank you for looking out for us!!! We will be joining our fellow platoon though inxxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan soon to help them clean up the mess. So, I believe we'll be here with TF ATTACK in TK only a few more months.

I thank you again!!!

Sincerely,
SPC Sarah Proft
A Co., 3-101,TF ATTACK (563rd SSA)
U.S. Army

Dated 8 September, 2011
Libya

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the Military Police Section on the 22d MEU, we would like to thank your organization for the care package that was packed with numerous helpful supplies. My team and I were very happy to receive such a great amount of supplies.

You sent us so much that we were able to share your donations with numerous other Marines and Sailors on the ship. The box was emptied within minutes!. It's organizations like yours along with your great team that works tirelessly to volunteer to help our troops while we are deployed, that allows us to continue to proudly serve this Great Nation.

Please share our sincere gratitude to the rest of your team. Thank you for YOUR continuance to serve others and SEMPER FIDELIS!

R/S,

GySgt Jason L. Mowry, Chief

CLB 22 MP, DET B
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines of CJIATF 435, I want to thank you for your generosity and assistance. It means more to us than you could possibly imagine!

Thank you,
CPT Jonathan Freeman
CJIATF 435 (HHD)
U.S. Army

Dated 3 September, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you for the "Megga OoxX" you sent us! I made sure everything in there was passed out to everyone here. The Chuck Norris t-shirts were great and the first to go!

Thank you again!
Semper Fi!
Sgt Ryan R. Hocker
HQ Bn, 2nd MAR DIV FWD G3 TMCC, Unit-73530
U.S. Marine Corps

Received 25 August, 2011 / Dated 21 August 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Chaplain Jeffrey Hastings
71 TC BN
U.S. Army

Dated 24 August, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Your help and support is such a blessing to us! Thank you for everything!

SPC Leanetta Scott & PFC Pettway
565th QM Company
U.S. Army

Dated 23 August, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (for Andi Grant & Connecticut Branch),

I am a soldier in the US Army. I wanted to thank you for sending your contributions overseas. I actually looked through one of your packages that you sent to a soldier and it contained vitamins, Body Wash, Shampoo, and even Eucerin daily moisturizer which is costly. I wanted to take the time to extend my thanks being that I am overseas.

Can I ask a request though? I understand that you help deployed soldiers like myself. Can you help me help the Afghan children? I am not allowed to speak too much on my job but since you coordinate with people maybe they help donate items for a package of school supplies like paper, pencils, & basic school supplies. If you would like I can create a story board and show where we're sending the supplies too. I just have a feeling maybe you can coordinate something in the States for us.

Ms. Grant, I am very impressed with you and your organization I would like to keep your letter, I wish that in the future I could have the opportunity to meet with you in person. It means the world to recieve something free that you actually need and trying to become debt free ... it helps.

Thank you, your organization, and every single volunteer who gave their time, energy, and efforts to known and unknown soldiers. You have a powerful ministry and if possible may I speak a word of blessings in your life.

Lord, I thank you that such a warm and open heart's desire has reached my workplace. Your word says in Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

I speak peace in her heart and mind, joy in the love you have for God. I don't know you, Andi, but I see you on your knees praying and I see the Lord looking at you. If it is a child you want you will receive it. If it is a husband you want you will receive it - remain faithful".

I also apologize in advance but God is brining out a gift in me, if any of this is wrong I am sorry. I just did not expect to email you this much nor to this extend but there is an annointing on your life, powerful annointing.

God bless you.

SPC Teresa Lynch
HHC 40th En Bn
U.S. Army

Dated 22 August, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Good morning!

I wanted to thank you for sending out the great big care package to us. Everyone was very surprised and appreciative of all you sent to us. It is amazing the care and out pouring of love and support that was felt going into the care package. I travel throughout the xxxx (OPSEC) province, and will ensure your love and support will be spread as far as possible.

On a personal note, I was born and raised in northern New Jersey, and my brother used to live in Massachusetts and commute to Danbury, CT for work. Although I've been “transplanted” down south for more than a dozen years, I will always be a "Northerner" at heart and miss the snow and watching the actual change of the seasons.

Thank you and everyone that helps your organization for everything that you do for us out here.

R/S

GySgt Thomas R. Conklin, HAZMAT Chief
II MEF FWD G-7 Unit 73920
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 August, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Wow! What an awesome care package! Thank you so very much. I was quite surprised when I opened the huge box and kept pulling all the awesome things out of it. I kept a small portion for myself and have been passing out trail mix, peanuts, drink packets and hygiene products to all my troops. Care packages like these it really makes us happy. It is amazing how one package can lift the spirits of so many people.

Thank you so very much.

Semper Fidelis,

CWO-5 Cannon Cargile
II MEF (FWD) G-3, UNIT 73920
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 Kuwaitt, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

CAPT Jeff Hastings
718 TC BN HHD
Ohio Army Reserve

Dated 18 August, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

(Andi and volunteers & donors),

I am the Executive Officer of the 563D Aviation Support Battalion (ASB) deployed to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, and a recipient of your organization's care packages. The packages were sent to our Battalion Safety Officer, CW4 Joseph Moroschak, who in turn distributed the contents thorough our formation which covers 5 different locations in Afghanistan.

We are all grateful for receiving the goodies and the letters you sent us from the children. I am currently in the process of creating a board to be placed in our Bn HQ that will hold many of your letters and pictures that the kids drew for us, and it will be entitled "Letters from the Home Front" and on display for everyone who comes into our unit.

Once again, THANK YOU SO MUCH for your organization's support!

KEEP THEM FIGHTING

Vr,
Eric

MAJ Eric R. Peterson, Executive Officer (with CW4 Joseph Moroschak & CSM Sean P. Ward)
563D Aviation Support Bn
U.S. Army

Dated 15 August, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am LTJG Blane Moore, US Navy, deployed with the US Army. I am an Intelligence Officer serving in a very remote part of Iraq. My Foward Operating Base is very small, very much like the "Dances with Wolves" movie in both size, location and scenery. We are not on a US base and the nearest is over 40 minutes away via the worst roads in Iraq.

We have to limit our travels there due to our vehicles being beaten by the roads and the armor they were installed with. The base that is 40 min away is our life line and it is small too, so no PX or store. They have a PX trailer that stops by for a day or two every month "or so" that is usually poorly stocked and sometimes we are not told when it will come in and miss it.

Your package was so great and I was able to share it with my team with much needed essentials. We thank you so much.

V/R
LTJG William Blane Moore
USF-I J2/A&P
U.S. Navy

Dated 11 August, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the package you sent me for my unit. It is by far the best care package any of us in my section have received since we arrived in January. After 5 minutes of opening it with my section, everything had been distributed. Thanks again.

R/S,

LCpl Andrew H. Lackey
RCT 8 Section S-6 Unit 73915
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 11 August, 2011
overseas

Dear Give2TheTroops (Andi and the Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your support to us troops out here. It really means a great deal to me that we still have people like yourself willing to start an organization to send us some of the little things that we miss the most! I cannot express my gratefulness enough! You truly are a blessing from God and I am thankful for the opportunity to
serve a country when there are still folks like yourself in it :)

I am so thankful for all that you do and always glad to serve a great country full of great people :) Thank you for your continued support and prayers. It matters more than I could ever successfully express in words!

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for what you are doing. It really is a wonderful service!!

SGT Kevin Cundiff
Delta Co, 2/227 AVN REGT, TF LOBOS. 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Air Cav Brigade
U.S. Army

Dated 8 August, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My fellow peers and I would like to say thank you so much for the wonderful care packages! It was greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much again,

SPC Leanetta Scott (and PFC Pettway and SGT Amy Lantrip)
565th QM Company
U.S. Army

Dated 5 August, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package. Everyone in 3rd Platoon, 44 CBRN Company enjoyed something out of it.

Sincerely,
SPC Sherri Coons
44 CBRN
U.S. Army

Dated 1 August, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am the Engineer Officer for Marine Corps Central Command (MARCENT), Kuwait. We have a fairly small detachment of about xxx (OPSEC) Marines here at Camp xxxx (OPSEC) in Kuwait. We just received one of your care packages and I wanted to take some time to express appreciation on behalf of the detachment.

There were several letters included from Seneca High School in New Jersey, along with a few from an 6^th grade class (elementary or middle school?). The letters were scrubbed for last names and addresses. There were a lot of questions I thought I would answer in case you were able to reply to the kids.

As I said, we are a small detachment. We handle mainly administrative issues dealing with personnel and equipment moving in and out of theater. The Marines are a combination of active and mobilized reserves in numerous MOSs (jobs) including supply, ordinance, armorers, motor transport and logistics. I am an Engineer Officer. In the past I have seen combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, at times working in minefields and combat breaching operations.

Currently I work in an office dealing with facilities development. Ranks range from Lance Corporal to Colonel and ages from 20 to 54 years old. I am a Major, and am 44 years old. Some of the letters we received were from an Air Force JROTC unit and not surprisingly, many hope to be pilots. There are no pilots in this unit, though myself and the Colonel were both originally on flight contracts. He had to leave the program because of his eyesight, I had to leave because of a previously undiagnosed heart condition. I wish the best of luck to all of the prospective pilots. Just remember, it takes a lot of people to keep those planes in the air, so don't give up altogether if you can’t fly.

There were many questions about our families. Most of us are married, and many have kids. I have been married 18 years, and my wife has endured seven deployments, six moves, and three years at Parris Island in that time. My daughter is about to turn eight and has been through three moves, two schools and seeing me leave on two deployments. It is hard being away from them, but the internet helps a lot.

The care packages you send us are always appreciated. The troops tear into them like kids at Christmas. As an officer, I wait until everyone else has gotten what they want out of the package before taking anything for myself. The items in the package are always popular, but the thing that matters most to the troops is knowing they're being thought of.

Thank you again for everything.

Maj Patrick W. Trimble, Engineer Officer
MARCENT Coordination Element

U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We got the pillows you sent us today. There were boxes and boxes of those awesome pillows!!!

We really wanted to thank you so much for those Sleepy's Temperpedic pillows! I had a blast handing them out - they went like hotcakes! It was such a surprise that Marines stopped their meetings just so they could each grab one! I was really great! We distributed all the pillows to as many people as possible, everyone is saying how
much better they sleep already!

Again, thank you so much for your support!

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 19 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received a box yesterday, full of snacks and goodies. I just wanted to send a thank you for your support. I just finished a break room we've been building. We have a gaming system and we've been building a DVD collection for Soldiers to watch movies when they need to take a break or just relax for a few minutes. It's been very popular.

I was wondering if you guys ever get Xbox 360 games, this system came with one and also a proxima, we have five controllers and amongst the Soldiers and they've donated three games, but they're really popular with these guys. If you guys ever run across any, we would be more than grateful. This will all stay here, including the DVD library we have built, for others to enjoy when we depart.

Thanks for the support you've provided. We are grateful for any and all the support that comes in. It makes a difference in everyone's day for sure. We're approaching our midpoint soon - I can't wait to get home.

We appreciate all you do.

1SG David Conklin
D/ 7-101, Task Force Eagle Lift
U.S. Army

Dated 19 July, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi. I just wanted to thank you for the multiple care packages we received aboard the USS Chancellorsville CG-62. Your time and efforts are very much appreciated.

Thank you,
EM2 Curtis Tompkins
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 19 July, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 16 July, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Good morning I just wanted to take the time to thank you for your care package.

It is wonderful to receive a package from an organization which I make yearly contributions to through work.

I know that you lift the spirits of many troops.

Keep up the good work,

SPC Patricia Cooley
44th CBRN
U.S. Army

Dated 15 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received my package a couple of weeks ago. AWESOME job! It was a hit in the office! I'm sorry for my delayed response. Things have been crazy busy around here.

As far as other things we would be grateful for would be:

* Coffee Creamer flavors like vanilla or pumpkin spice
* Granola bars - theyr'e a big hit
* Drink mixes (any flavors)

* Beef jerky
* More animal crackers! That last big bag you sent us lasted quite a while!
* 100 calorie snack packs
* Laundry detergent/fabric softener/dryer sheets

Those things are the most used here, but as always, anything your organization sends is well appreciated here, and we all thank all of you for what y'all do!

Thanks again!

David "Doc"

HM2 David "Doc" Smith
Task Force Med/JTTS
U.S. Navy & U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 13 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch)

Thank you very much for the package that you and G2TT sent us. You can't imaging the happiness you and your team brought to us when we opened the packaged and started going through all the items.

Most of us here are married and have kids, and those letters, cards and pictures from the kids were very special to us and even brought up tears after we read them out loud. Once again, we can't describe our gratitude to all of you. You guys gave us a break on our busy day, and remind us that there are people like you all back home other than our families who care about us.

THANK YOU.

Very respectfully,
HM2 Wil Carmona
NATO Role 3 Multinational Medical Unit Task Force Medical
U.S. Navy

Dated 11 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank You so very much! WOW! Give2TheTroops really surprised everyone here when we opened the huge box and found a PS2 System, Flashlights and MP3 Players. It was only a matter of hours before someone got their TV and we all hooked up the PS2 ... we almost had to give tickets to keep track of who's turn it was! LOL!

We can't thank you enough for all that your organization does for us over here, it's amazing how one thing can make such a big difference in morale.

Thank You so much and God Bless you all!

SFC Christopher A. Rodgers, Battalion Career Counselor
2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, TF Warrior
U.S. Army

Dated 10 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received a very large care package today - packed by G2TT and IBM employees. It was a wonderful surprise full of tons of great items. I shared out the food and T-shirts with a bunch of the Marines they loved them. The Chuck Norris shirts were really funny. This package brought a lot of smiles and happiness to these Marines and I thank you for that. I appreciate having Americans like you who truly stand behind us. It makes all we do worthwhile. I hope you can express our gratitude to the people at Give2TheTroops and IBM and the donors who helped make our care package possible. I hope you all have a wonderfull summer and know that the U.S. Marines are always here to keep the wolves at bay.

Thanks again for everything.

SSgt Chamous B. Duhachek
RCT-1 HQ Co. Section S-3 Unit 40145
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 10 July, 2011
Middle East

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you and your staff of volunteers for preparing and sending out the care packages. We have had an arduous deployment with missions all over the Middle East and the care packages you sent, from people we have never met, really means a lot. We love the letters from school children, mothers and grandparents showing their appreciation for our service and words just can't explain the feeling we get from reading them.
Fortunately we are at the end of our deployment and looking forward to being home with our families and friends.

Again, I personally want to express my appreciation to you and Give2TheTroops for organizing and sending these out to my team.
P,S. The guys are enjoying the Chuck Norris T-shirts.

Very respectfully,
CWO3 John Sullivan
U.S. Navy

Dated 6 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to let you know a bunch of the boxes you sent came in. Here are a few pictures for you!

One of them had awesome Temper-pedic pillows. We had boxing matches to divvy out the other items (just kidding), but the pillows were a huge, huge hit. I had to get a working party to help me unpack and sort all the stuff! It was an awesome day when your boxes came in. Well, it was awesome for everyone EXCEPT for the mail clerks, who actually came over before mail call and asked me to get all my boxes out of their office! But they said it with big smiles. Plus, they helped unpack the boxes and got their choices of candy and gum.

Well, thanks again. As the Marines said today, "Please tell them thanks, and keep 'em coming"... Oh yeah, we actually used some of the stuff to make boxes for our guys out in the little outlying posts and we even sent them some of the Chuck Norris shirts, coffee, soup, candy, etc.

Thanks so much... if I could, I'd give you all a big o'le hug to say thanks!

:) James

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 July, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings from the country of Afghanistan. Here in Camp xxxx (OPSEC) things are going great. As I walked through the door, I saw bunch of Marines and Sailors sorting through more than 10 boxes for our unit. And ALL those boxes were all from your branch!

On behalf of the troops, we are very glad for what you are doing. Thank you for remembering us and sharing these great items with us. It meant a lot to these troops and knowing that you are one of those, stand tall and proud. Your unconditional support will never go unnoticed. I am always proud to see such wonderful citizens who knows what we go through out here. You are one of the those who make a great team that push us to continue forward on these battle field.

I am from the islands in the Pacific Ocean. The island name is Woleai. I joined the USMC back in 2002 and I never regret being one of the protectors of our freedom. As I see these other countries, I always thank God for the greatest freedom we have as Americans. I will stand tall and continue to fight for what is right for this world.

Thank you very much for your unconditional love, support, and care for those of us out here.

May God bless you and your families.

Respectfully,

SSgt Romeo Filrang, Substance Abuse Coordinating Officer, Armory Chief, Field Ordering Officer
2d MLG Camp Commandant Chief HQSVC Co., 2d MLG Uniformed Victim Advocate
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you,
1SG Alex W. Lashendock
B Co, 3rd BSTB, 3-10th MTN DIV
U.S. Army

Dated 28 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for sending us care packages. It feels really nice to know that the people back at home have not forgotten about us and they're proud of what we're doing. It makes it easier to get out of the rack early in the morning.

Thank you,
AWR2 (NAC/AW/SW) Nicholas Venzke
Hsl-43 Detachment Five; USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to send my blessings with you. I have greatly enjoyed every box that you have sent to the Uss Chancellersville. Because of people like you our moral has been lifted because it is not always easy being out to sea. Thank you for all that you have done and know that what you are doing is appreciated!!

Thank you,
EM3 Sarah Hansen
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to personally thank you for the donations to our ship, the USS Chancellorsville. Could you please pass on to all involved our gratitude for all the donations we have received? It's tough being away from home out here but it does help knowing that there are people back home who appreciate what we are doing.

Again, thank you very much for everything that you are doing for us.

Thank you,
ET3 Ken A. Musil
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello. I'm just writing you to thank you for all the care packages that your organization sent to us. I'm on the USS CHANCELLORSVILLE. Thank you very much for your support and all the time and effort you put in this.

CSSR Alberto Bello
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Tai-lynia Jones and I am an Operations Specialist onboard USS Chancellorsville. I would like to thank you for the care packages and all of the unconditional support you've shown to us Sailors and the troops on the ground. Words can’t express how greatly appreciate people like you.

OS2 Tai-lynia Jones
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is SGT Stephanie Tudela. I received an insured care package from your non-profit organization. Thank you so much! It really made my day. Of course, I shared my care package with everyone! I would love to keep in touch with you even after my deployment. I've been adopted by so many people who I consider my family now.

I can't wait to come home and be reunited with my babies. I've said many good byes in my lifetime but my hardest one was to my kids. Again, I appreciate the love and support you all have for me and every fellow comrade out here in support of OEF/OIF.

Thanks again for the care package, love, and support. God Bless!

Nia

SGT Stephanie Tudela
KAF FSC, 863RD EN BN
Illinois Army Reserve

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! This is OS3 Utsey from the USS Chancellorsville. I would like to give thanks to everything you have sent us. It has been a real morale boosters and one of the few things that guide us through this deployment. Once again, thank you very much!

Thank you,
OS3 Ryan Utsey
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We recently received your care package here in Iraq. I as well as everyone who shared the items were very grateful.

Some of the comments from the troops:

"Thank you for your support, thoughts and prayers." - CPT Bill Muthiora, 116th Garrison Command

"Thank you so much for all the goodies. I was in need of a few of the items you sent. It really means a lot to me to know that there are still people who support and care about our Soldiers. May God bless you and your organization and those who help." - SPC Victoria Helm

"Thank you very much for all the goodies you sent. We can always use extra hygiene items. Nice Chuck Norris shirts too! Thanks again," - SGT Britt Haustveit

"I just want to say thanks for all your support and the stuff is great." - Airman Spohn

And I would like to say I really appreciate the package. As I opened it and began to share with others, I could see how important it was to/for the younger troops. I can't say it enough I really do appreciate it.

Take care and thank you very much from the bottom of our hearts.

MSG David L. Boucher
HHC 116th CBCT GAR CMD, Task Force Snake
U.S. Army

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care packages. They are a huge morale booster while underway. It is nice to know that there are people who care about what we're doing out here and help make our time spent away from home better. Thanks again and please know the care packages you sent us are truly appreciated. God Bless.

Respectfully,
STG2(SW) Meghan Avery
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Petty Officer Keith Mack, and I just wanted to say Thank You for everything you have done for us thus far! We serve our country and defend its freedom, so that our citizens may have the life and liberty that they so well deserve, and to make sure that we defend you and what you do for us! So from myself and my fellow shipmates onboard USS Chancellorsville, we all say THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS!!!

Thank you,
OS2 Keith Mack
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to send you this note of appreciation for all the boxes of goodies and letters that you sent to us aboard the USS Chancellorsville. There were so many items that were needed and wanted. I especially appreciated the "Wet Ones" wipes and chewing gum. Andi, thank you for taking the time to put this organization together. Again, I appreciate the effort and time you all contribute to make this possible. Please let everyone know that they have my thanks.

Sincerely,
GM3 Nai Saefong
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am OS2 Zachary Sherman on the USS Chancellorsville. I am an Operations Specialist who does some of the operations that we conduct while out under way. I just wanted to thank you for sending us some of the goodies that you have. The support that you have for us is greatly appreciated. I imagine your organization has boosted the morale on the ship a lot by sending us all of your care packages.

Thank you,
OS2 Zachary Sherman
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to send a very heartfelt thank you for the support I have received from Give2TheTroops. As the days drag on, there is nothing better than receiving a care package from some kind soul; it can lift you up and carry you on for weeks, and the sweet tooth is also very appreciative. So, thank you for all the support and care that your organization puts forth.

Respectfully,

ET2 Jason Ondricek
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 26 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for everything your organization has been doing for the troops. I am a sailor serving onboard the USS Chancellorsville and am proud to say my shipmates and I have benefitted directly from your work. Thank you again.

With great appreciation,

IT1 Reginald Bonsra
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 25 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I've never met or heard of you before, but I wanted to thank you whole heartedly for your morale support during this deployment. We’ve received multiples boxes from your organization over the past few months and it's definitely a wonderful treat. We all appreciate your volunteers' and donors' support and send you well wishes here on Chancellorsville (CG-62). We applaud your efforts. Please continue with your organization and know your contributions are cherished by those currently deployed.

Best Wishes,
GSM2(SW) Andrew Vrooman
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 25 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thanks for all the care packages you sent to our ship! It means a lot to us knowing that there are people out there who care and didn't forget about us during our Operations. We appreciate everything you all do for us!

Take care and God Bless,
OS3(SW) Kevin Jimenez
USS Chancellorsville CG-62
U.S. Navy

Dated 24 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks again for keeping us on the goodie list. This last batch of care packages with all the towels and Ramen Noodles was a huge hit. You are the greatest. I'm sure, you'll be hearing from a lot of our Sailors today! God bless you and thanks again.

P.S. Andi - I'm sorry you couldn't accept our invitation to ide with us for a few days on the Tiger Cruise. It would have been great to meet you and have you onboard!

Love,
Evan

LT Evan Adams, CHC, Command Chaplain
USS Chancellorsville (CG-62)
U.S. Navy

Dated 23 June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I recently received a box from your organization and wanted to pass along my thanks. The inside of the box was signed by a couple of guys from IBM in New York. Along with your letter and others, I also got a little letter from J. Randall MacDonald.

Everybody loved that box. All the snacks and everything were demolished with quickness.

I do have a request. we work long hours and we rarely get time to maintain our fitness or go to the gym. Would it be possible to send some small personal fitness gear and healthy snacks?

There's a saying out here, "half the Soldiers will be able to bench 300 the other half will weigh 300." It's kind of funny, but a little bit true. It really depends on the individual's schedule and if they have access to the dining facility during meal hours or if one has to snack. Often I work such late days that there's no energy for working out after being up countless hours. I don't want to end up in the ''weighing 300'' category. The stuff I'm talking about is like a jump rope, some ankle weights, ab roller... etc. things like that. I know they would be put to good use.

Thank you for thinking of us while we are over here. I especially love the dart board! We appreciate your support greatly and on behalf of the guys we thank you again!!

SPC David Patterson

C Co BSTB 4/10 MNT

U.S. Army

Dated 22 June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank You for the large care package you send to my unit. I really appreciated everything you do for us over here in Afghanistan.

V/R
SGT Celeste Maldonado
RC(S) MEDLOG, I&S Division Surgeon 10th MTN
U.S. Army

Dated 18 June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi there! I'm SGT Martin with A Company 3/1 STB out of Fort Knox, Kentucky and I just wanted to personally thank you for the boxes of snacks & cards, support & love from Give2TheTroops that were sent to me and my fellow soldiers over here. It really means a lot when my nation's citizens can show support like that. I'm amazed at how many people are involved. So thank you from the bottom of my heart and my platoon's hearts. If you could get the message back to all the people who were involved with the G2TT packages, it would be greatly appreciated.

With much love and appreciation,

Chris

SGT Chris Martin
A Co 3/1 STB TF Valiant
U.S. Army

Dated 13 June, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received your very generous care package today at the 86th Combat Support Hospital! We appreciate all your support! Thank you!

MAJ Alfred H. Nader, III, Chief, Laboratory and Blood Operations; USF-I Theater Laboratory Consultant
Medical Serice Corp, MT (ASCP); MS Biodefense
TF 86th Combat Support Hospital; Pathology, B CO TF 86

U.S. Army

Dated 6 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Andi & Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Here is a picture of some of us with our Chuck Norris T-shirts on. I’m the guy in the back. Please thank Chuck Norris and his staff for us again for donating the shirts to your organization! Everyone loves them.

LT Evan D. Adams, CHC, Command Chaplain
Chaplain's Office, USS Chancellorsville
U.S. Navy

Dated 5 June, 2011
Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 4 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

LT Evan D. Adams, CHC, Command Chaplain
Chaplain's Office
USS Chancellorsville
U.S. Navy

Dated 4 June, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On Behalf of Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, we would like to say thank you to the staff and volunteers of GIVE2THETROOPS. Your contributions to our Soldiers reminds us of why we continue to serve. Here is a picture of a small portion of my unit.

Again, thank you for the continued support to our troops,

1SG Elias A. Page, RMTC Senior Military Advisor
B Battery, 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery Regiment
NATO Training Mission - Afghanistan
U.S. Army

and CPT David T. Chapman
B 1-17 FAR
U.S. Army

Dated 1 June, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thomas Hines
USS Chancellorsville
U.S. Navy

Dated 29 May, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 25 May, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We got another one of your huge boxes today filled with snacks galore. It was so awesome! It's been a while since we've received ANY mail at all. When I opened your care package, it was likea scene in in the movies when someone opens treasure and the room starts to glow!

It was very much appreciated, I think the sunflower seeds went the fastest. One of the shift workers almost downed the entire package of unshelled seeds! Mmost of the snacks went to our guys/gals who run Ops watch shifts, since they get out even less than we do on normal days.

I was able to get a photo of me holding some of the stuff up, I'll send it in a couple days when Ii can get it uploaded to my compute. I hope I can eventually get that picture to you - it's my small way of saying thanks for the support and snacks you continuously send us. Well, I've got to get back to work. I hope your new Headquarters Center is treating you well.

Thanks again,

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 May, 2011
NATO International

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just received a package of coffee which your organization sent over to us. I wWanted to say thank you. I am an F-18 pilot for the U.S. Navy by background, currently on staff in a NATO HQ base. More interestingly, I am from Canton, Connecticut, and I noticed the letterhead had my hometown listed so it garnered a special note! (I went to a school called Kingswood-Oxford in West Hartford – ’87).

Thanks again for the coffee and thanks for the tremendous work you do for all our troops. It is truly appreciated by everybody here!

Very Respectfully,
Lusty

CDR Carlisle F. Lustenberger
NATO Base
U.S. Navy

Dated 24 May, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Dated 18 May, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so very much for all of your kindness and dedication to our troops. I'm currently deployed with a unit that has received many care packages from your organization and I just wanted to express my tremendous gratitude!

It's so uplifting to know that there is so much support for us and what we do. Our days are much brighter and easier because of your organization! May God bless you and yours!

Very Respectfully,

SGT Jennifer York
A Co. TF 86th Combat Support Hospitall
U.S. Army

Dated 10 May, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG-62)
U.S. Navy

Dated 14 May, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

On behalf of the 3-116 Battalion I would like to thank Give2TheTroops Organization for the support you have provided. Our soldiers face a daunting task, day in and day out. The letters and packages that they have received were a welcome reminder that people are constantly thinking and praying for them.

A little history on the 3-116 Cavalry; our Battalion is known as Eastern Oregon's Own because we were first started in Eastern Oregon . We are the only battalion located in Eastern Oregon with armories in Ontario, Baker City, Pendleton, Hermiston, The Dalles, Hood River, and Woodburn (who recently moved from Redmond). This is the battalion’s second deployment to Iraq.

The first deployment was several years ago and we were deployed for 1.5 years. We did several different types of missions to include: convoy escorts, route clearances, searches, and working with the populace to establish a more unified military and police force in Iraq . We were there for Iraq's first free elections and helped provide security for several of the sites and personnel that voted.

This second deployment finds us working as convoy escorts. The battalion has conducted more than 600 missions, traveling more than 60,000 miles. Our mission is much different than last time as now we have little interaction with the civilian populace.

Again, we truly appreciate all your support, thoughts, and prayers. We are getting closer each day to coming home and look forward to seeing the great state of Oregon again.

Sincerely,

CPT John Qualls, Battalion Personnel Officer
TF 3-116 JBB
Oregon Army National Guard

Dated 9 May, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Your organization has been a blessing has made a great difference to all of us out here with "boots on ground" and on the sea! What you have done for the crew has lifted their spirits immensely! The Sailors have worked so hard with Operation Tomadachi, literally giving the clothes off their backs to help the people who were devastated by the Tsunami.

We are now in combat waters and the intensity is high. I'm so proud of these young and dedicated warriors of the sea. The long hours and hard work they do is unbelievable.

Thanks so much for taking such good care of them. You can send them ANYTHING (shave gel & razors, food, candy, drink mix, magazines, movies, etc.) and as much as you want! They have already consumed your last enormous batch of care packages! Here are a few photos from Japan.

Love,
Evan

LT Evan Adams, CHC, Command Chaplain

USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG-62)
U.S. Navy

Dated 30 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Robert A. Mitchell, Battalion Commander
501st OD BN (Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion/EOD)
New York Army National Guard

Dated 29 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We received the wonderful care packages and all of the service members here will enjoy the items.

Thank you so much!!!

SGT David Taylor
Baker Co 1-506, TF Red Currehee
U.S. Army

Dated 28 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We received the wonderful care packages and all of the service members here will enjoy the items.

Thank you so much!!!

MAJ John R. Cuva, J1 Manpower Chief
USF-I
U.S. Army

Dated 26 April, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut and Oregon Branches),

Thanks so much for everything. Here are a few pictures of the Sailors with just some of your goodies you sent us!! The last photo is of the service I performed on Easter Sunday.

V/r,

LT Evan Adams, CHC, Command Chaplain

USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG-62)
U.S. Navy

Dated 25 April, 2011
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I want to thank you for what you are doing. Since the care package came from Albany, Oregon I wanted to let you know that your big care package happened to end up with several members of the 116 Air Control Squadron and 270th Air Traffic Control Squadron of the Oregon Air National Guard. We are working with the 729 Air Control Squadron (USAF), Royal Air Force (UK) and Royal Australian Air Force.

Your dedication and devotion to the troops is very much appreciated.

SMSgt Gregory L. Bosin, Maintenance Superintendent
71 EACS/SCS
Oregon Air National Guard

Dated 24 April, 2011
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you so much for the HUGE care packages. Everyone here at the Pyramid loved them. You put a lot of smiles on people's faces; especially the Oregon ACS. Once again, thank you and enjoy our group photo.

Thank you!

V/R

SSgt Kaela L. Suarez "BnE"
71 EACS/SCS
U.S. Air Force

Dated 23 April, 2011
Japan - Disaster Relief Zone

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch and your other branches),

Thank you for your support. Your organization is amazing! I've been in the Navy for 17 years. When the Operation Iraqi Freedom began, there were a lot more patriotic supporters. I thank you all for still showing your hard core care.

I read the letter written by your Founder, Andi Grant. I have to say, I have a huge amount of respect for what she started and what she does.

Just so you know, today you gave support to a crew which supported efforts in Japan's time of need. We were the very first military personnel to respond and give them aid. We were here from the start. Your treats are like an award to us ... like children getting candy.

Thank you,
STG1 (SW) Jeff Rangel
USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG-62)
U.S. Navy

Dated 22 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the awesome care packages. We loved everything inside of them.

We received your gift boxes for the K9 unit here with us and they put very good use to all of the dog stuff that you sent. The K9 unit is down the road from us and we gave the stuff to them. They loved it.

We are going to get some pictures with them and send them to you. if you could send us a banner or something with your logo on it we would love to take pictures with it and send them to you.

Again, thank you for all your support and we appreciate it very much. We are all looking forward to receiving
more care packages from you if possible.

SPC Joseph Golden
E BTRY 101 FA
Massachusetts Army National Guard

Dated 21 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Sorry it's been a while since I have written. It's been super busy around here. I have received so many packages from you organization with the last few weeks it’s amazing! Literally about 50!!!

The Temper-pedic pillows are such a huge hit. I get people in here every day asking for them. They’re gone the day I get a box in.

I think just about everyone around here now is wearing some form of Chuck Norris shirt as well. It's quite comical. I get a good laugh evertime I got to our gym in the back of the hangar. I'll try and get a good picture of it someday.

I received a Second Display Case of Coffee Mate Creamer yesterday. I've attached a photo for you. I've started a wall with a lot of the thank you letters you sent us as well. We have received so much stuff from you that we started taking some of it to the local USO here on base to give out to other units. They love it. Thank you guys so much for everything you have done! Keep up the great work and God bless you all.

Semper Fidelis,

Capt Tyson Rae

MMCO (Maintenance Control), HMH-463
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to write you an email to tell you how grateful my Soldiers and I were for the generous box you sent to us. It was just in time for Easter so the guys really enjoyed the chocolate. It was perfect! We are even going to have an Easter egg hunt with the plastic eggs you sent. I will send pictures of the hunt!

Your organization is so wonderful and you are all truly blessing. You really do make a big difference for us over here!

Thank you again so much from the "Dog Pound Family" here in Afghanistan. We will send you pictures shortly!

1LT Christina Kalogiros and the"Team Dogg Pound"

TSS Rushmore
U.S. Army

Dated 19 April, 2011
(Combat zone location purposely withheld by G2TT)

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the kind donations you made to 1-228th Aviation Regiment in xxxxxxxxx (OPSEC). Your kindness and generosity will touch many lives here. The orphanages which our unit supports have very little, and your donations for the children will mean a lot to them and make a real difference in their quality of their lives.

I am the unit's dog care taker. Our dog is named "Sas". She's a sweetheart and has already enjoyed many of the treats, toys, food and grooming products (Furminator® brush, bath towel, etc.)

Thank you for these generous donations, Your organization is amazing!

Very respectfully,
SSG Elizabeth Eaton-Ferenzi
ESEF
U.S. Army

Dated 17 April, 2011
Special Operations (Combat zone location purposely withheld by G2TT)

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello from XXXXX (OPSEC). I am MAC Lori A. Beeman, the Kennel Master for 4 MWD teams that are currently serving a one year deployment here. You originally sent some dog care boxes to us and I really would like to thank you for the donations. All my pups were greatly appreciative of their toys, kongs and treats. It made all of us K-9 handlers very happy as well to see that people care for the four-legged service members as well.

As soon as I can get you a good photo of us down here I will send one.

Also - The "MAC" stands for Master-At-Arms Chief. I'm an E-7 in the Navy.

Very Respectfully,

MAC Lori A. Beeman, Kennel Master
JSF/JFT-Bravo
U.S. Navy

Dated 16 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

A1C Amber VanBeek
447 AGE/ESFS/Bravo Flight
Massachusetts Air National Guard

Dated 12 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch)

You are all too awesome!!!! We got your care packages yesterday. Thank you and your wonderful staff, volunteers & donors for everything! We really do appreciate it and are putting everything to use!

Everyone here gets so excited when one of ya'll's care packages arrive. We're like kids at Christmas opening them!

SSgt Matthew Franklin
407 EOSS/FP
U.S. Air Force

Dated 11 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Your care packages have been a hit! They are filled with the right stuff! I'm going to bring my camera in my office and take photos of the wolf pack mentality going on around the candy table! I had to open my office ... I thought I heard some growling!!!

Microwave goods were also a hit - thank you! Also the shampoos and conditioners have been a hit with the Soldiers. The deodorants, toothpaste, floss picks - well, my boy troopers and gal troopers love 'em.

I have African American boys/ gals soldiers that need specific skin care and hair products. The PX only sells the generic brands and sometime the nice-smelling stuff is a little reminder of home. We don’t need any more wipes or laundry detergent now. However, if possible, games would be nice… dominoes, chess, models to put together, etc.

Your organization has been such a morale booster! My troopers are just smitten by your care packages!

V/R,

MAJ Allen D. Acosta, LG
DOL Support Operations, HHC USARCENT ASG-K
U.S. Army

Dated 11 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Curtis Bartlett. I am one of the K9 handlers at xxxxx (OPSEC) Iraq. We recently recieved a care package from you guys via an Army Unit in a near by building. The guys and I were pleasantly surprised. We wanted to say thanks and we will get you more pictures of the pups/toys etc.

Curtis Bartlett and K9 "Barry"

K-9 Unit
U.S. Army

Dated 8 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Greetings! We, the soldiers here in the Southern part of Iraq were so elated when we received your care packages! We appreciate them from the bottom of our hearts. Although, some of the chocolate had melted, we still managed to eat what we could.

We do not get the good candy over here. The weather is too hot for it to keep now. I t is starting to get around 92-95° daily. Also, the dust storms are starting to pour in. The dust storms are so bad that in the day that you have to drive with your lights on to see.

Please let all of those who contributed to those care packages that it brightened up our day tremendously! Again, we thank you so much!

MAJ Scott Delbria

LOGCAP/DC MA
U.S. Army

Dated 7 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received several more boxes from your organization today. Thanks so much. I attached our favorite picture from this set of packages. All I can say is thanks and "Chuck Norris 4 Life".

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for supporting our unit in Afghanistan. I pushed the 3 care packages we received out to the smaller patrol bases, where it's needed the most. I’m so grateful for Give2TheTroops and for people like you. Keep up the good work. It means the world to these Marines.

V/R,

Capt Grant Moody

K Co 3/9 FAC
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 April, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I appreciate all you do and the support your organization has provided to these young soldiers ... hard to believe some are just out of high school... To me, the faces look younger and younger every year.

We have two missions here and the primary is support ongoing operations in Operation New Dawn in Iraq and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The second is to support and train Kuwaiti forces. You would be proud of my young troops, getting pulled from one mission to another but they get the job done.

V/R

MAJ Allen D. Acosta, LG
DOL Support Operations, HHC USARCENT ASG-K
U.S. Army

Dated 6 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received the shirts and water bottles today! Gonna have to get some kind of picture with all the goodies! Thank you so much! It's almost been a year now for us and you all have given so much during that time!
Just wanted to thank you very much from the bottom of my heart. We got the care packages and all the guys really enjoyed them. It came in handy today actually because we were able to share it with some soldiers from another unit. Bless you and all those who help make our time away from home much easier!

SGT Lee Bersamina
A Battery 3/2 SCR
U.S. Army

Dated 5 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We have received a lot of stuff from you all lately. The pillows are a huge hit out here. People tell me every day they are sleeping like babies now.

The first 5 boxes that showed up were the bigger pillows in the plastic bags. Today 3 boxes of the Tempur-pedic travel pillows showed up. I’ve been handing them out to all the Corporals and below first. I get requests every day, but have to tell them that the junior Marines come first. I’ve also received your care packages with the protein, DVD movies, oh! - and the Chuck Norris books. Everyone loved those too! I am doing my best to get pictures - I promise I will send some though.

Thank you again so much. I know I keep saying that, but I could never thank you enough.

Semper Fidelis,

Capt Tyson Rae

MMCO (Maintenance Control), HMH-463
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 4 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

What a surprise it was to receive the Tempur-pedic comfort pillows! We had not received mail in a while and when we did ... the pillows were perfect!

Distributing them was harder than I had thought because when word got out, Soldiers were hunting me down to try to get one, I decided to stick with the 1st come, 1st serve rule and it worked out really well. Thank
you again for all your support and all the patriots who support your cause.

God Bless You All!

SFC Christopher A. Rodgers, Battalion Career Counselor
2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, Task Force Warrior
U.S. Army

Dated 2 April, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks so much for the chocolate ... it's going fast, everyone was like "Holy #$@%!" but in exaltations of joy! I'm taking some pictures for you. We put "G2T" in the background to say thanks as best we can. I was able to get a couple of photos of me posing with the Marines who took some chocolate for their sections. And I even got the resident "chocohalic" to pose for a picture!

Thanks to you and all your awesome crew and anyone else who had a part in this huge CHOCOLATE PARTY!! WHOO HOO!!

Here aresome photos. The first two pictures from the Hershey Kiss delivery. Three others are with the "Terry's Milk Chocolates" you sent. I have a few more boxes of the chocolate oranges you sent, so I'm going to try to get a few more pictures for you.

I hope all is well with you guys.

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 April, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Our Platoon has received another three(3) boxes from Give To The Troops and we all would like to extend our greatest gratitude to you and your volunteers & donors. As you know, we are nearing the half way mark of our deployment and thanks to you it has made it more tolerable and easier to deal with.

We have managed to move tons of equipment out of Iraq while we been here and every time you look at our drivers leave, you can see them take the Termper-Pedic pillows and a bag full of goodies you sent to us. We have also received the banner from you and our plan is to take it on the next mission with us and take pictures on every FOB (Forward Observation Base) for Give2TheTroops and mail the banner back to you.

Thank you,

SSG Hazael D. Hernandez, Squad Leader
377TH TC / 164TH TC/ MISFITZ 2-2
U.S. Army

Dated 1 April, 2011
North Carolina, United States

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

My name is Brent Gregory and my girlfriend was shopping when someone mentioned your web site. She told me about it and I had to check it out. I want to say thank you for everything you do. This is awesome! I am not currently deployed, but my unit and I leave this summer. I have friends deployed right now and a brother who is also in the military, so I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am that people care about the troops.

Thanks,

CW2 Brent W. Gregory
C co 3-82nd AVN REG
U.S. Army

Dated 26 March, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care packages you sent to us the other day. I must say what my boss said. He said that he has never seen such well put together care packages. There seemed that there was something in there which pleased everyone in our unit.

As the other service members I work with, from various branches of the service (Marine Corps, Army, Navy and Air Force) saw the large boxes and the contents, their eyes just lit up. I wish you could have seen the joy they received from picking out some goodies from your care packages.

Your gifts helped bring joy to a lot of troops here!!!

Thank you so much for your support, time, and effort you all put into making this happen!

Sincerely,
1LT Tiffany A. Ferrell
USF-I J5 FWD
Missouri Air National Guard

Dated 23 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Good morning, I would like to thank you all for all the care packages you have sent to my soldiers. We are
finally going home soon. Just wanted to say thanks again for the support.

CPT Arlene Pina
96th MP BN
California Army Reserve

Dated 21 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Tthank you very much for the care packages you sent here. I dispersed them through the platoon and everyone really enjoyed the things inside. It's nice to have some of the comforts from home. Some of the things are just not available to us. It's also very nice to know that there are people back home who still care and support what we are doing, and who are trying to make our lives a little better and comfortable while we do the same from thousands of miles away.

Ii just wanted to personally thank you for what your organization is doing. It's people like your staff, donors and volunteers who keep us going and keep us in the fight. Once again, thank you to everyone and God Bless America!

PVT Nolan Ryan
(Unit purposely not posted - OPSEC)
U.S. Army

Dated 18 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!

From all the Soldiers of the 212th Transportation Company! HOOAH!

Dated 16 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much. I got a large package in a couple days ago with 6 of the Temperpedic pillows. My Marines loved them and they went quick. They're so soft. I'll see if I can sneak in one of their rooms some night and take a picture of them sleeping with it for you. Just kidding! Thank you again though. You are the best.

1stLt Tyson Rae

MMCO (Maintenance Control), HMH-463
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 March 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

CH (CPT) Robert W. Sterling
504th Military Police Battalion
U.S. Army

Dated 14 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Andi and Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received two boxes from you today, it was great. One of the hottest items that came in the box were the "Official Chuck Norris Fact books," the quotes and what not from it are already popping up on email signatures. I was able to take a couple photos, which I've attached. Hopefully they will do the job of showing our thanks. The snacks are already gone - it was like a swarm of piranha on a feeding frenzy when I got the box open! But they were well received and some other Marines posed in the pictures to say thanks for the snacks.

Please thank your everyone at G2TT for the support they have given, and have yet to give.

Thanks to all of you at Give2TheTroops!

SSgt James K. Hainer, Jr.
G-3 2D MLG
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 14 March, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to give you a heartfelt Thank You! We got the care package today. It's so nice to see that so many folks out there still care for us Soldiers. Please pass on my heartfelt Thank you to all your volunteers and staff.

SSgt Matthew Franklin
407 EOSS/FP
U.S. Air Force

Dated 13 March, 2011
(Combat Zone purposely withheld by G2TT)

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the wonderful care packages that you sent to us here at our deployed location.

WE FEEL LOVED!

Thanks for all you do to make us feel at home.

Sincerely,
Maj Rosalie Duarte
386th EFSS/CC
U.S. Air Force

Dated 12 March, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you so much for all you've done for our team here at FOB Dagger. We have lived much better and smiled more often because of you and all your supporters with Give2TheTroops. We're moving from this base very soon, so please take my name off the list for future care packages. Thank you again and God bless all of you for what you do.

LTC Steven Andy Gilbert
cannot disclose (OPSEC)
Georgia Army National Guard

Dated 11 March, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the three large care packags that you sent to us. I was able to share them with my office and the troops here on Camp xxxxxx (OPSEC). Your support is much appreciated. It won't be long now before my unit and I get to head back to South Dakota. The 26th MEB will be replacing us and I'm sure would appreciate your support.

God Bless You,

Paul

SFC Paul B. Carroll
196th MEB
South Dakota Army National Guard

Dated 26 February, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package that you sent to my battle buddies and me. We really, really love each and everything you sent. We especially adore the notes from the children!! You just have no idea how much you brightened up our day.

Thank you so much!! Keep up the great work!!

With Love,
PFC Rachelle Moore & Battle Buddies
478 PSB, 160th LNO
South Carolina Army National Guard

Dated 23 February, 2011

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),
Afghanistan

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU.

SSG Sandra Pamela Cobb
101st Airborne Division Assault
U.S. Army

Dated 19 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),
(Note: Various parts of this letter have been omitted as per OPSEC)

Dated 18 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you all so much for the additional care packages we received from you. The Soldiers enjoyed them very much - especially the microwave! I have attached a picture of a few of my Soldiers holding gifts you sent us.

.

V/R

CPT Arlene Pina
96th MP BN
California Army Reserve

Dated 17 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for your generous donation of Temperpedic Travel Pillows and Girl Scout Cookies. These were both timely and most welcome!

It is heartening to know you are thinking of us over here in Afghanistan. The U.S. members of the ISAF Joint Command appreciate you taking the time to collect and put these packages together.

Thanks again and looking forward to the next care package!

Respectfully,

LTC Robert L. White, (OF-4), USA-A
ISAF Joint Command Deputy CJ1
U.S. Army

Dated 15 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to tell you thank you so much for the holiday boxes you sent us. It was a pleasure to hand out a little holiday cheer not just in our office but also out parent Army unit we are attached to. I will be transferring to Iraq soon and wanted to make sure the guys replacing us are taken care of as well we were. We have new blood moving in and the head honcho will be Nick Sawyer. (I'll give you his information soon as well as my new address in a private letter)

Once again, I am in your debt for proving the little things in life that make our lives a little better.

Your friend for life, Aaron Gentry

MK 1 Aaron P. Gentry
Coast Guard RAID Team
U.S. Coast Guard

Dated 13 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!!

I'm emailing to say Thank You for the snacks and Girl Scout cookies you sent to us at FOB xxxxx (OPSEC). Although I don't eat the cookies, it's always nice to know that someone took time out of their busy schedule to think of us!

Again, I thank you very much for your thoughts.

Respectfully,

TSgt Lakisha Shannon
Combat Outpost (cannot disclose)
U.S. Air Force

Dated 12 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

On behalf of CPT Moore and all the soldiers of TF 807 Med, I would like to thank everyone at Give2TheTroops for your kindness. We really appreciate all the care packages you sent us.

Thank you for all the support you have given our unit in the last year. It will never be forgotten.

Sincerely,
SFC Frances Conductor

TF 807 Med Bde
Kansas Army Reserve

Dated 19 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to personally thank you for the outstanding support my Task Force has received from your organization. From the Temperpedic pillows, magazines, and holiday stockings during Christmas...thank you!

It has meant a lot for my Soldiers here to know they are supported and not forgotten!

Again thank you for the outstanding care packages!

V/R

SFC Melanie D. Scott, First Sergeant
LTTF 3, 3SB
U.S. Army

Dated 14 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Once again, thank you for our care packages. We have managed to issue a Temperpedic pillow per Soldier in the Platoon , and they have nothing but good things to say such as how it comes handy on the road and the comfort level they have.

I also received a huge box full of goodies and every Soldier is thankful for that also. I had a Soldier say, "Give2TheTroops packs a better care package then my loved ones!" He also wants me to thank you for the snacks.

As a Squad Leader in the United States Army with 4 deployments, I want to let you know that this is the best organization that has ever sent my Platoon a demonstration of gratitude for our service.

I can honestly say many Soldiers out here are motivated and dedicated to the mission at hand, getting all of our troops and their equipment out of this Region of the world.

We appreciate all you do for our Soldiers and making our deployment easier to cope with. We will be honored to take a Platoon picture with a Give2theTroops banner if you can provide one for us and we will also take it on the road and get it signed from as many soldiers as we can while we are out there. And just a quick note to wrap things up, our Post Exchange stores out here where soldiers are used to buying all their goodies are dwindling down due to the draw down, so many items are getting harder to obtain. Thank you !!!!!!!

Here are a few items my unit has requested if you have them available:

Chocolate, Female hygiene products, Shower Shoes, and your Give 2 the Troops Banner!!

Thank you all!

SSG Hazael D. Hernandez, Squad Leader
377TH TC / 164TH TC
U.S. Army

Dated 6 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the 96th MP BN from Afghanistan we would like to thank you all for the two boxes we received yesterday. They came as a surprise and they were well received. My Soldiers enjoyed all the delicious
treats.

Thank you for your service and supporting us all over the world!

CPT Arlene Pina
96th MP BN
California Army Reserve

Dated 6 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Your organization just continues to outdo yourselves each time you send packages to our soldiers at xxxxx (OPSEC). The fact that you're thinking of us and remembering everyone here is a gift enough. Thank you so much for the two (2) HUGE boxes of Girl Scout Cookies and also for all the other items you sent.

We appreciate everything you do. Truly.

Andy

LTC Steven "Andy" Gilbert
TT (cannot disclose)
Georgia Army National Guard

Dated 6 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I would like to thank everyone who took part in preparing those wonderful care packages. I received all four of them. My buddies and I truly enjoyed all of the goodies. We really do appreciate all of your support. You all make it a lot easier to do out duty here.

I would like to also answer some of the questions Elizabeth, Lexi K, and Dylan from Harrisburg Middle School had asked me:

Elizabeth: I agree keyboard does get easier with practice . You would not believe it, but it's actually pretty cold here in Iraq, too. It is rainy season right now, so just like Oregon; it rains just about every day. Lucky you, you don’t have to deal with all the mud that we have. I have about 2 months to go, before I return home.

Lexi: I like English too. It’s actually my 3rd language. I learned it when I was in 5th grade. I joined the Army when I was 17. The recruiters came to my school, and I said yes I would join. No, I never thought that I would actually end up going to war (twice), but I always knew that was a possibility. I am proud to serve this wonderful country. I too, also like animals. Growing up, I had a lot of hamsters and fish. Now as an adult, I would love to get a puppy. What do you think? If I am ever in Oregon, I’ll be sure to stop at one of the “Civil War” rivalry games there. Hey, maybe you and I would run into each other.

Dylan: when I was in Middle school, I used to keep a journal for my English class. We used to do creative writing too. So you want to be in the Army when you grow up? That is a great choice. Actually any branch you decide to go into will be wonderful. I am sure all of your family and friends will be very proud of you. Since your Dad and Uncle are in the military, I am sure you already have a head start into basic training. Thank you so much for all of your wishful thoughts. My battle buddies, and I should be home soon, safely.

Once again, the effort and dedication of all of you in putting together all of these wonderful care packages for us, is very valuable. We may be in the front line, but your support in the rear is what is helping us to stay focus, and motivated.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for everything.

Yours truly,

SSG Irvine Armand-Robertson
220th TC
New York Army Reserve

Dated 5 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received the care package your organization sent us today! Thank you so much! Everything in there was wonderful! My friends and I really enjoyed everything you sent. I am also letting you know that I do not need another package sent to me because we'll be rotating soon! Again, I thank you for the package and for everything you and your organization does!

Sincerely,

Cpl James Tomlinson

I MEF C-4, 8148 I MEF G-4 Ops
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received a big box from you today, full with Valentine Presents. Thank you very much. It boosted my Soldiers' morale greatly.

Many Blessings!

Chaplain (MAJ) Se Woo Park
HHC STB 3SB
U.S. Army

Dated 4 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Subject: Appreciation for Holiday Gifts.

The Soldiers of D Co 3-116 CAV would like to formally thank Give2TheTroops for the care packages that you send to us over the Holiday Season.

a. The time and effort that you have given into sharing the holiday spirit with us has meant a great deal to each and every one of the Soldiers of Delta Company.

b. Your kindness and generosity represents the support that allows us Soldiers to leave our homes and families and do our duty around the world - wherever our great country may need us.

c. Myself, the First Sergeant, and all the Soldiers of D Co 3-116 CAV sincerely appreciate the gifts you have given us.

Support from your organization raises the morale of the unit by reminding these Soldiers that there are caring people back home whot appreciate their sacrifices.

The Soldiers of D Co 3-116 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 2 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to thank you all for the support your provided to the Soldiers currently deployed. Luckily, I had been receiving the packages but it seems that the packages stop at other post offices prior to arriving at final destination. I took a look at the address and realized that I provided you the wrong zip code, I apologize! As soon as I arrived in theater and signed up, I gave you the wrong zip code but your care packages still made it to me!

Again, thank you SO MUCH to all of you at Give 2 The Troops for taking the time to support the American Soldiers. God Bless you!

Respectfully,

MAJ Wanda Huddleston
HHC, 3rd SB

U.S. Army

Dated 1 February, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the Soldiers of TF 86 Combat Support Hospital; We would like to thank you for the boxes that you have sent. It has been a blessing and we thank you for what you have done. I wish many blessing to all of you. Thank you

V/R
SFC Jerrell Best
A CO, TF 86TH CSH
U.S. Army

Dated 1 February, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of my company, I would like to thank your organization for the support you give to service members. We received a very large package from your Connecticut Branch with an excellent variety of much welcomed goodies. We plan on saving some of the larger ticket items for a raffle planed for the Superbowl.

The rest was distributed among our thankful troops.

Our tour is much easier knowing there are people who still care about the sacrifices we make on a daily basis.

Thank you,

CPL Christopher L. Schuff, COMMO NCOIC
428th TF Linebacker, Route Clearance Company
U.S. Army

Dated 27 January 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

LTC Steven "Andy" Gilbert
TT (cannot disclose)
Georgia Army National Guard

Dated 27 January, 2011
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Much thanks to all of you for the tangible kindnesses givento us during this most recent holiday season. As you are well aware, the “mailman” becomes Santa Claus- holding boxes of merriment and delectables.

Your organization was BY FAR, the grandest of them all and the envy of other sections, thus we hope you don't mind-but we shared the “goodies” with some other soldiers around our area of operation that did not have the bounty we received. What a story Andi has - to start G2t22 from her basement to now boardroom, and to top it all off- through adversity. I am sure and the struggle of personal life scenarios and desiring to fulfill a "call" in your ministry to us here in harm’s way.

It is with a sincere gratitude that I write on behalf of my team here in Kuwait. We all enjoyed every piece of candy with the knowledge that someone took time and effort out of their own day(and night) to put together such a special deliver!

I appreciate that your organiation sees us all in this battle as "war-fighters" and not just a differing branch within the Department of Defense, and that you sendpackages to al branches of the service. Being a New Yorker, it is good to know we have friends on the East coast. Keep up your strong efforts, they are recognized by many and enjoyed abundantly.

Sincerely,
Jorge

COL Jorge O. Klajnbart, MC, Deputy Arxcent Surgeon
ARCENT/CFLCC
U.S. Army

Dated 25 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'd just like to say thank you for your support! We have received our first care package from you! The Marines loved it! You all are awesome and we appreciate it very much.

Thank you,

GySgt Christopher Rosenfelt
VMFA-122, S4 Unit 78525
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 January, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We would like to begin by thanking you for the Tempur-Pedic pillows. They were a great, great, thoughtful gift for us Heavy Equipment Transporters. This month of January has brought some of the coldest weather you can encounter out here in Iraq. Brief description: snow, rain and sand-turns into mud ... a lot of mud. After a whole 2 weeks of being on the road and the hardships we had to encounter, it was really a real nice moment to see a smile on my Soldiers' faces from your care package that was sent.

All my soldiers thank you from the bottom of their hearts. At times, my Soldiers approach me and say, "Staff Sergeant, Do you think people in the States forgot about us out here?" This is because no one mentions us in the news, but things are still very dangerous for all my truck drivers out here.

For this care package I do thank you myself and for my unit.

If possible, some things we need are throw blankets, hand warmers, moist wipes, green socks, and Little Debbie snacks

Thank you again,

SSG Hazael D. Hernandez, Squad Leader
377TH TC / 164TH TC
U.S. Army

Dated 20 January, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

USF-I, CMD GRP, SJS
U.S. Army

Dated 15 January, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just thought I'd drop you a line to just say THANK YOU to everyone that helps with Give2TheTroops. You all are amazing and I just thought you should know that.

Love from Iraq ... still :)

SPC (P) Travis Hoyle
Bravo Company, 64th BSB, BSB 3/4 ID
U.S. Army

Dated 12 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to thank you with a grateful heart for all the support you've shown to my Soldiers and me. I am no longer with them in country, and I'm headed back to the States.

Thanks again for your support. The work you all do is really great and is still much needed.

Thank you again for your service to the Troops!

1SG Johnny Boose
328th HRC
U.S. Army

Dated 10 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care packages you sent us. I was really excited to share them with the other Soldiers of our Battery. Please tell your volunteers that we appreciate their time and efforts to support the deployed military members. Bless you all so much! You are a true angels!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping the troops!

SGT Leechard (Lee) Bersamina
A Battery 3/2 SCR
U.S. Army

Dated 8 January, 2011
Afghanistan - now back home in California

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all the packages you sent us! They were really great! The baby wipes were very helpful. All the Marines took the Ramen Noodles as soon as they saw them! And we LOVED all the junk food you sent us. We took a lot of photos for you, but I will need to search for them so I can send them to you.

We returned earlier than expected from our deployment and are now back home with our families. We greatly appeciate the support from you guys; especially those awesome Temperpedic Pillows - I still use mine even now at home!

I have had the most wonderful Christmas (having my family whole again) and hope you did too!

Here is a photo of the day I came home and the first meeting of my first child. It was the best feeling in the world!

Thanks again for all the support,

Sincerely,
Cpl David Cook
1/11 Bravo BTRY, Unit 40430
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 7 January, 2011
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of 377th Transportation Company, 2nd Platoon ( NO SLACK ), we'd like to send our warmest thanks and appreciation for the care packages we received today from your organization.

If you were present, you would have been able to see the smiles on all the Soldiers' faces when they went through and grabbed stuff they needed. The soldiers also mentioned this isthe best thought of care package they have ever seen!

Our mission out here is to transport multi-classes of cargo. This means long hours on the road facing adverse conditions. We stay motivated and ready to go, knowing that there are people such as yourselves out there supporting us.

Once again, thank you and we all hope to receive more care packages from Give2TheTroops and we're thanking you in advance!

V/R,
SSG Hazael D. Hernandez, Squad Leader
377th Transportation Company (HET)
U.S. Army

Dated 6 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

LTC John J. Wojcik
JTF-435, TF Peacekeeper 46 MP CMD
U.S. Army

Dated 1 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Happy New Year!! We received two very large boxes from you in the past couple of days, thank you so much!!!! I wish you much happiness in the new year!!!!

GySgt Glen Hanson
CLR-15 FWD Maintenance Company, Unit 42286
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 1 January, 2011
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to thank your organization for the package that we received yesterday and to let you know that the items have been shared with several other Soldiers. We all wanted to say it was great to get the items, especially at this time of year.

Again, thank you for what you do and I hope that all of you have a great New Year and know that it is great what you all do for us here.

Sincerely,

MAJ Robert Christian
MDMP OIC
U.S. Army

Dated 31 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

A huge care package came in to the compound for SSgt Edwin Guzman today. The young Marines gathered around as it was opened in anticipation of what was inside. There were a lot of different items, candy, snacks, hygiene products, movies, books, and some cool cards made by some children. I just wanted to express my appreciation and that of the Marines here in Afghanistan. As I stand back and watch them dig through the box I can see the enjoyment on their faces and I wanted to relay that to you. Attached is a picture we put together to say thanks to all of you.

S/F,

Capt Clark E. Howard
I MEF ALE OIC
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 31 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

COL Lillian A. Dixon
USF-I/ ITAM MOD (SAG)
U.S. Army

Dated 31 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the care package that your organization sent to me here in Afghanistan. It was quite a surprise. I am very thankful that our American brethrens and sisters support our mission here to bring peace to this country in betterment of creating a better world if not for ourselves, but for our children.

The cards and letters are heartwarming and that will be something that I will take back home with me, the Good Lord willing as a reminder that our American public does support us. Please thank your staff for their hard work and dedications, I have shared many of the items sent not only with our service members but also with our
local workers here on our compound. The locals are very happy that I shared with them the cookies and candies. This is a welcomed gesture on their part also and I would like to once again thank all of you for the care package.

V/R and grateful,
SSG Robert A. Lewis
JCC Medic
U.S. Army

Dated 28 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to write and thank Andi and your whole organization for making Christmas much nicer for us here at xxxxx (OPSEC) base. We received your boxes and we could tell a lot of time and effort went into each item. It's wonderful to see what people can do and will do when they have a cause to work for, and in this case you made a lot of Soldiers happy.

From all of us here in Iraq (especially the 50 or so Soldiers on our tiny base in the middle of nowhere), we appreciate you. It sounds like you know what deployments are all about and how hard they are on families.

Please thank all the friends you have helping in Give2TheTroops, Inc.

Thanks for making us smile.

LTC Steven "Andy" Gilbert
TT (cannot disclose)
Georgia Army National Guard

Dated 28 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you to all the workers for supporting us with these extremely generous gifts. I received the system, games, television and everything you sent so far, and I think I can say on behalf of my entire platoon that we are forever grateful. Your packages help bring a bit of America to us in times when we need it the most. Thanks a million.

Sincerely,
PVT Andrew Baldwin Swenson
2nd Platoon, Bravo Troop, 7/10 CAV, 1st BCT, 4th ID
U.S. Army

Dated 28 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 27 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi,

During the holiday season I have been backed up with e-mails and letters. Today I am taking the time to say thank you.

Thank you so much for all that you have done. Attached is a news letter please take a moment to read about us.
(G2TT Note: Due to OPSEC reasons we did not post the entire newsletter & the font is purposely small.)

Thank you,
SSG Jeffried Apodaca
4CAB UMT, Task Force Gambler
U.S. Army

Dated 26 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Maj Robert B. Green
MEF RSC-SW
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello! My name is Anthony Smotherman and I'm 19 years old - almost 20. I am from Omaha, Nebraska. I'd like to thank you so much for all that you have done and are currently doing for us deployed Soldiers. All the care packages, letters and cards you are sending us are very much appreciated. They place a smile on each one of our faces. They even lift our spirits when we need it most.

Knowing that we have your love and support instills a great sense of pride in our hearts. We fight for a great nation filled with genuine and hospitable people like all of you. YOU MAKE US PROUD TO SERVE.

I'd like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and to let you know that you've made this holiday season so much easier to cope with being away from our loved ones. So thank you for being there for us.

Sincerely,
Anthony Smotherman
623rd Eng Co.
U.S. Army

Dated 22 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Wishing you're doing well and Happy Holidays to You!

We received two boxes from you today and yes we were surprised again! Thanks for everything! Ironically, we were talking about not having decorations for the tree, so we just started decorating it with items from the heart ... christmas cards, Werthers toffee candy, peppermint sticks, etc!

Today, we received your very nice Christmas ornaments! Yes, we were grinning from ear to ear! As I was unpacking everything - the Soldiers were putting the finishing touches on the Christmas tree with the decorations you sent! Thank you so much!

Thinking nothing else could top that I opened the other box and along with additional goodies, there's an X-Box system and movies, etc! You are the Best Santas ever!

Thanks from the bottom of our hearts for thinking about us and making this season memorable!

Again, our deepest and sincere thanks! Everything is special and appreciated! Have a great Christmas!

SGM Rue Mayweather
USF-I, CMD GRP
U.S. Army

Dated 21 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello!

I just want to say thank you so much for everything that you sent us. It’s so nice to know that we have so many people back at home supporting us. This is quite possibly the nicest thing that a group of people that we don’t even personally know has done for all of us. Everyone here loves the Chuck Norris T-shirts, candy and movies you sent to all of us. Just so you all know, this brings so much happiness and joy to the Marines over here that are away from their families for the holidays.

Again, thanks for the box of wonderful gifts that you sent. From all of us in the G-4 we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas & happy holidays.

R/S
Sgt Jacob Rose
I MEF FWD C-4 MDDOCWHS-3, DET A (G-4)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Within the last week our unit has received several packages from your organization. We cannot express to you how much we appreciate your organization's efforts to bring us a bit of home to this place. Many of the Soldiers do not receive things from back home so these packages are a very welcomed event. The 546th ASMC just had a unit Christmas party on Saturday.

The Christmas tree that you sent us was used as a center point on the buffet table with our mermite style meal that was provided by our DFAC. EVERYONE loved it. The giant Christmas card and greetings... well we hung them (or most of them) on one of our long bare walls within our medical clinic. It is very heart warming. Overall, we are very grateful for the attention and gifts that you sent to us.

From the 546th ASMC we send you much thanks and a wish for a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

V/r,
1LT Karen S. Martin, AN Chief Nurse
546th ASMC
U.S. Army

Dated 14 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hello there, the Marines at 3d MAW FWD (G-4) would like to thank you for the goodies and the banners you sent. It is such a morale boaster for us. The holidays can be pretty depressing at times here. The boxes that your organization sends really helps keep our spirits high. Please thank ALTRIA and everyone who participated in putting these boxes together as well.

Once again thanks for all you time and effort in what you'll do. God bless and I hope everyone's holidays are joyful!

R/S
Capt Douglass L. Rauschelbach
MWHS-3, DET A (G-4)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 14 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We wanted to thank you for the Christmas care packages you sent us here in Iraq . It is always difficult to be away from home and especially so during the holidays. We appreciate you taking the time to think of us. Knowing we have the support of the folks back home makes our job that much more rewarding.

Thank you from Eastern Oregon's own 3rd Battalion 116th Cavalry.

LTC Phillip Appleton and SGM William Willie
3rd Battalion 116th Cavalry
U.S. Army

Dated 13 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you SO MUCH for the items you've sent for our troops. We're all very grateful for your support. God bless you. Hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!

CH (CPT) Joe Ward
HHC 1092nd EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 12 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you so much for supporting the 2-1 GSAB UMT (Unit Ministry Team). Your donated items were greatly appreciated by the Fighting Eagle Soldiers!

Let me tell you a little about our soldiers and our mission here in Iraq . For some of our Soldiers, this is their first deployment. Most of them volunteered to enter the military, knowing that deployment would be part of the package deal. For some of our Soldiers this marks the fourth or even fifth deployment. They continue to serve despite the reality that they have spent more time deployed than at home.

Our mission in Iraq is unique. Our unit provides a variety of air assets for the theater of operation. We provide MedEvac support, VIP transportation, and we also have heavy lift capabilities. Even as combat troops leave Iraq , the air support mission will probably continue for some time.

Again, I want to thank you for your support, prayers, and donations. Be certain that you have encouraged many soldiers in our battalion through your care and concern.

May God’s Peace be with you,

CH (CPT) Matthew C. Christensen and SPC Brenton J. Grierson
2-1 GSAB Unit Ministry Team
U.S. Army

Dated 11 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Merry Christmas! A little bit about me. My name is Joe Swartout. I am married to my high school sweetheart and we have 3 awesome kids. I have been in the Military for about 18 years now and have been deployed 8 times. I wanted to take time out of my schedule to tell you how much the care packages mean to us.

I am the Regimental Ammunition Officer for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. We are currently deployed to Afghanistan. I received your packages and put them in the Troop Command Post (CP). Within an hour, every box was empty!

I cannot thank your organization enough for sending us a little taste of home. This time of year is always the hardest part of being deployed. It is a great thing to see a smile on a Soldiers' face when they walk off with an armful of goodies. Due to an injury, I will be leaving and going back to Germany for surgery. My Right hand man, SSG Mike Bristol will be here.

Thanks again for blessing us with these packages. May you and your families and everyone involved with Give 2 The Troops have a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!

V/R
CW2 Joe Swartout
2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Regimental Support Squadron
U.S. Army

Dated 11 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

The following letter and plaque from COL Thomas Tatum, rear detachment commander for MAJ Johnny Sellers' unit, HHD, 11TH MP BN (CID).

On behalf of the 6th Military Police Group (CID), we truly thank your organization for your patriotic support to the men and women of the armed forces. Your tremendous and admirable effort shall resonate throughout our organization during these upcoming holidays.

Our Soldiers deploy to desolate areas of the world while encountering daily atrocities within their line of profession. Many embrace their remembrance of home as a coping mechanism to remove themselves from their hardships. Sometimes, home comes to them…in the form of mail and care packages.

These small gestures may seem little in size, but they provide the greatest of morale support to our Soldiers. They remind our troops of the support provided by our patriotic families back home and reemphasize their pride and duties for the mission at hand.

Your organization’s gracious effort is greatly appreciated as you have truly blessed our unit this holiday season. Again, thank you and the members and donors of Give2TheTroops for providing our troops a reminder from home.

Happy Holidays,

COL Thomas H. Tatum, Commander
HHD, 11TH MP BN (CID)
U. S. Army

UNITED STATES COAST GUARD

Dated 10 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you very much for the care packages. I hope everything is well with you. Our soldiers are busy building roads, Forward Operating Bases and Combat Outposts.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

God bless,
Chaplain Won
864th EN BTN

U.S. Army

Dated 9 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

CW2 Paul M. Paszkowski & MAJ Sellers
11th Military Police Battalion (CID)
U.S. Army

Dated 6 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

thank you for all you do and for all the efforts of Give2TheTroops. The Marines and Sailors of RCT are grateful for your efforts and generosity.

It makes our time and hardship out here a little more tolerable. I will remember to take photos of the guys & gals the next time I go out to celebrate Christmas in the field with them. All the best and again, with a grateful heart, I thank you.

SSgt Chamous Duhachek, Regiment Chaplain
RCT-1 HQ Co. Section S-3 Unit 40145
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

On behalf of the enlisted Marines that work for LtCol J. Coler, we would like to thank your organization for the care packages we received this week. If I remember correctly, we received some Give2theTroops T-shirts and pillows about a month ago and sent a picture back. Thank you so much for your kindness.

Respectfully Submitted,

MGySgt Scott A. Singer
MWHS-3 Det A. G-4, Unit 41007
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 4 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just want to drop you a line to let you know we have received two large packages from you. The first one was received on Monday and the second one came in yesterday. I do not know how to thank you ... all of the 150+ Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines really enjoyed the packages.

This time of the year being away from family & friends is really hard, but your commitment to ensuring deployed service members receive care packages is greatly appreciated.

THANK YOU,

SGM Andrew Scheuermann
359th TTSB JNCC-A (Joint NETOPS Control Center)
U.S. Army Reserve

Dated 4 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Just wanted to say “THANK YOU” from all of here at Joint Expeditionary Forensics Facility 7 at Camp xxxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan. We are part of the 19th MP BN (CID) here in Afghanistan.

We received your box of goodie bags this week and distributed them out. Can’t thank you enough for that. We really do appreciate the support from everyone back home.

Please pass along our best wishes from all of us to all of you.

v/r,
MAJ Benny Alvarez
MP, JEFF 7 OIC
U.S. Army

Dated 3 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My lads were forwarded, (minus one bag of beef jerky I kept for myself), the boxes you mailed and they are now in receipt of the two large boxes you sent to me. So your boxes made it to the most forward lads I have. Thanks for your hard work and the smiles you bring to my Marines. Their game systems broke and they don't have a lot to take their minds off of. I heard one of the guys mention a "wii" and another a "PS3". I tell them they should all read more and they look at me like I'm an idiot.

I'm very glad you have a CFC number, stay motivated and congrats on the 8+ patriotic years. We'll tip back a Gatorade in your honor.

Semper Fi,

P.S. A man in a kilt is a man and a half. (I'm the 3rd from the right).

LtCol James A. Coler
MWHS-3 Det A. G-4, Unit 41007
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 3 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Well, I am almost out of here. Everything has been going well. Yesterday I received your package and signed for it today. I hope that I will be able to see this one handed off the the local children. Thank you so much for your help. I appreciate all of your help. May God Bless You! My email is open if you need it you have that already from me).

Thank you for your support throughout the year.

Respectfully,
SPC Teresa Lynch
HHC 40th En Bn
U.S. Army

Dated 2 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to take this time to thank you for the care packages you sent us. As you are aware, there are a lot of Soldiers in this country who do not have anyone write to them or send them care packages. Your organization helps Soldiers know that there are people back home who support them and are concerned for them.

My Soldiers are a special group of personnel who come from many walks of life. They serve by their desire to not only serve their state, but also their country. Know that your organization stresses the importance of what we do. We fight to defend the freedom of rights for those we do not know. Your organization supports and gives service back to those you don't know through your acts of kindness and caring.

Please be sure tho thank all those who are involved with your organization for their thoughfulness, kindness and caring hearts. A package to a Soldier who has been patrolling, guarding or rendering aid day in and day out (sometimes in extreme temperatures) means more to him/her than you can ever imagine. Your giving helps a tired Soldier take his/her mind off the long days and even brings smiles to their faces. That's all they need.

Again, I would like to thank all of you for all that you do to not only support the Soldiers of the 105^th Military Police Battalion, but also for all the troops (in all the branches of service) throughout this country who you continue to support. There's a saying, "freedom is not free" but as long as your organization exists, we and others like us will always uphold those words.

Thank you again,

1LT Chad E. Peele, Commanding Officer
EN, 105th Military Police Battalion
North Carolina Army National Guard

Dated 1 December, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the awesome care package. The candy was a really big hit with the Soldiers. Thanks for your support and all the great things your organization does for deployed Soldiers.

Sincerely,
COL Peter Ries
Consolidated Legal Center, HHC 103rd ESC
Iowa Army Reserve

Dated 1 December, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I have received the package you sent to me. I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for what you are doing. I know this was not an easy road for Andi to get this organization off the ground in support of the troops. I can tell you that when I saw the box with my name on it I was excited that someone had taken the time out to do this. My comrades I are grateful for your generosity. We very much appreciate your kind thoughts. Thank you.

We are getting ready to redeploy after the holidays and our mail cut off date is 15 December so after that we will not be able get anymore mail. I just wanted to ensure that you know your work is greatly appreciated. This package did wonders for our morale since we don't really have a PX here per se. The one we have is very limited and it is never really stocked but we are grateful for what we can get when we can get it. Once again, thanks for everything.

Take care.

Karona and Friends

SSG Karona Hutchinson
31st Combat Support Hospital
U.S. Army

Dated 30 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We just got the packages for Christmas. I can't to begin to say how much this has helped morale and my hot sauce addiction. The Christmas stockings you sent were filled with goodies will make many around here very happy, Coast Guard and Army troops. Please pass on to those who have taken the their time out of their day to do this for total strangers.

It is a morale boost for me to just be able to brighten up people around the base with great quality goodies and gifts. Thank you from Afghanistan.

I wish I could give everyone involved with your organization a hug. God be with you all this holiday and thank you once again.

Here is a recent picture. We just switched over to ACUs so we can look like the Army. Take care and know we are praying for the recovery of Andi's son. God be with you and Merry Christmas.

From left to right me (Aaron Gentry, Nick Sawyer, Branan Rountree, Harley Matlock)

Many thanks from the Coast Guard in Afghanistan.
Your friend with love,
Aaron

MK 1 Aaron P. Gentry
Coast Guard RAID Team
U.S. Coast Guard

Dated 30 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We really appreicated the care packages you sent us. We are in the United States Army. It's an honor to be able to serve our country. Your packages came just in time for Thanksgiving so it really lifted our sprits! We decided to join the Army because we wanted to do our part making the world a safer place.

We just decorated our building for the holidays and many, many thanks to all of you for the large quantity of cards that you sent us. They are all hanging on the wall to give us a reminder of all the people who care about us.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OF YOU WHO SUPPORTS US AND GIVE2THETROOPS, INC.!

SFC Butler, SPC Derbigney, SSG Hughes, SPC Kovacs, SSG Blanchard and SSG Joshua Alaniz
HHB Fire Squadron 2SCR, KAF
U.S. Army

Dated 30 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your care package on behalf of the 103d ESC Combined Legal Center (CLC), in Iraq. I wanted to personally thank you for the generosity and thoughtfulness. As I am sure you know, Soldiers love to get mail - especially with candy and snacks! The Andy Capp fries were an instant hit with the SSG and SPC to whom I gave the snacks. The rest of the candy will go to Soldiers who work the overnight shift in the operations center and to the Chaplains to distribute.

By the way, although I now live in St. Louis and my reserve unit is from Des Moines, IA, I have a real connection to CT. I grew up in Stamford, CT and three of my siblings still live there (Hartford area, New Haven, and Stamford).

Have a great holiday season and thanks again.

Please contact me if you have any questions or require additional information.

Thanks,

COL Peter B. Ries, Staff Judge Advocate
103D Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
Iowa Army Reserve

Dated 29 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

One of the best part of the packages is reading the cards from the kids. They are always so sincere and sometimes hilarious. I thought you would like this one we received today:

"Dear Soldiers,
I know you miss your family but there are more important things in the world you should care for.
I hope this helps you.
Love,
Liana
Troop: 3040"

That definitely made all of us chuckle. Once again, thanks for what you guys do, and once we hang all the holiday decorations, I will send you a photo. I will tell you, once I found out you guys were a CFC organization, I started donating, and I have been encouraging my Soldiers to donate also. Thanks again!

Keep up the great work, and stay in touch.

John
MAJ John J. Agnello, CISSP
FA/53
U.S. Army

Dated 29 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Just wanted to drop a line of thanks for the care package I received yesterday. The guys and myself here at our base really appreciated getting the packages. We now have a small tree and the small stockings were a welcome addition. Of course the candy and other items you sent us will be enjoyed over the next couple of weeks ... well ... .maybe days. Thank you again for all that you do at Give2TheTroops!

God Bless all of you and have a Merry Christmas!

Very Respectfully,
SA Scott A. Fout
CID Office
U.S. Army

Dated 27 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to take this time to thank you for the care packages your organization has sent us. Ttey have been real morale boosters for our troops away from home. They show us that somewhere out there, there are people who care about what we do over here and that we aren't just here for nothing. So from all of us here at xxxx (OPSEC) to all of of you who support us, "Happy Holidays" and thank
you for your support!

SGT Adam Alderman
HHC STB 3SB
U.S. Army

Dated 26 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (North Carolina Branch),

Thank you for the box of goodies you sent us. My colleagues from the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Afghanistan National Security Forces appreciate it. The box arrived a while back but I'm just now getting some time to write a thank-you note.

I graduated from NC State in 1991 and got my commission through their ROTC program. One of our arch rivals back then was ECU and I remember going to a game in '85 or '86 that ECU won in Raleigh.

Attached is a picture of me at my cluttered desk at Camp xxxxxx (OPSEC) in xxxxx (OPSEC) Afghanistan. Hopefully I'll get it cleaned up before I go home in xxxxx (OPSEC).

Thanks again for the support and goodies. We're going great things over here no matter what the press reports back home. They seem to focus on the bad news, not the good stuff. We are making a difference.

Major Darren Rhyne, Chief, Local Acquisitions
CSTC-A/CJ4
U.S. Air Force

Dated 18 November, 2010
Africa

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hi my name is SPC Michael Arendt. I have just received a care package from you. I gave some of the items to troops here with me and I sent some down to where we have other troops. We all thank you for everything . We sent a thank-you card to you and would like to do something for you all. What do you need that we can help with? Again, thank you for what you all do. If you send any more packages, could you please send snacks and some microwave stuff so I can send it to the troops down range who don’t get a chow hall to eat at? We will be grateful for anything you send.

Thank You again.

SPC Michael Arendt
Special Mission
Kansas Army National Guard

Dated 17 November, 2010
Africa

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for your support. It means a lot to know we were thought of and supported when we are separated from home and our loved ones!

On behalf of Charlie Company, 2nd 137th CAB - THANK YOU!

SSG Domme, SGT David Devicks, SGT David Dudley and others
Charlie Company 2nd, 13th CAB
Army National Guard (several states)

Dated 15 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

From all of us in the Command Judge Advocate Office at Camp xxxxx (OPSEC), thank you for the wonderful boxes of items. There was so much stuff that we shared the care packages with the entire unit and then donated some the remainder to the Chaplain's office. We of course hoarded the Bubble gum, chocolate and Girl Scout cookies.

We greatly appreciate your support and the many letters you sent in those boxes. I have read all of the letters, cards and pictures from the kids and we will be posting them like wall paper all over the office!

A little about our office: we are the command judge advocate office, basically a law office. We support the Soldiers on base with both the law function, military justice (prosecutors), legal advice/assistance and other functions as needed. We have three lawyers, three paralegals and I am the legal administrator. We share a building with 2 other departments (sections) and are closely linked with a large legal section in the detention facility. So the items you sent us were shared with many people.

One of our paralegals turned 19 last month. I find it amazing for someone to be 19 and deployed to a combat zone. She is only 5 1/2 years older than my daughter and it's amazing hom much she is like my daughter. The rest of us are like a normal law office, although I am an engineer in my civilian job, the rest of the staff has solid legal backgrounds.

Thank you for your support. It is always a pleasure getting packages and letters from home and especially to be reminded how much people at home care. Have a great Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas.

Sincerely,

CW2 Michael F. Altz, Legal Administrator
OSJA
Michigan Army National Guard

Dated 14 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Today we received a few boxes from your organization and I wanted to say thank you. I must give a shout out to CARA, AISLINN, GABE, CHRIS and TIM from the University of New Haven for the boxes they packed.

It was the message on the inside of the boxes that touched me. If the University of New Haven sent us their school colors we would
proudly display them.

Thank you Andi and the Connecticut volunteers!

Thank you,
Your Forward Deployed Soldiers and
SSG Jeffried Apodaca
4 CAB UMT
U.S. Army

Dated 10 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Wishing this message finds you doing well!

I just wanted to ensure you knew how much we appreciated the boxes we received recently! First, we were very SURPRISED to receive them and further surprised by the awesome GOODIES inside!

Thanks again! There was plenty for everyone!

We appreciate you more than you know!

Sincerely,

SGM Rue Mayweather
USF-I, CMD GRP, SJS
U.S. Army

Dated 10 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I received 5 packages from Give2TheTroops the other day. It was awesome! All the Soldiers wanted to dig in their Christmas stockings but I would not let them. They were really excited about the Christmas decorations and we can not wait until we can decorate our Hot Gun tent. We will definitely send photos once it is complete and the stockings are hung.

Our Squadron is planning on a big Thanksgiving dinner for us. They plan on flying in all kinds of things for us on our little hill top. We would like to thank everyone involved with Give2TheTroops for everything they do for deployed service members across the world.

Attach are a few photos of us with the packages. Thanks again and Happy Holidays from 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Patrol Base Tabar, Task Force Uruzgantan.

Respectfully,

SFC Dustin R. Bice, Platoon Sergeant
B Btry, 1-2 SCR
U.S. Army

Dated 8 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for all your boxes and support! I have attached some pictures of us and our dogs. We are 49th Minedog Detachment Station stationed in Afghanistan and we are from Fort Leanord Wood, Missouri (Active Duty). I am SGT Ryan Anderson and the first photo is all of us with our dogs. We deploy as a small squad. The second photo is of SGT Bornhoeft and "Cleo" with me and my dog, "Freddie."

Thank you all again!

Sgt Ryan Anderson
Ronco De-Mining K9 Unit
U.S. Army

Dated 6 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

It is now my fifth rotation of a full year in either Iraq and Afghanistan and I remain amazed at the thoughtfulness of the people back
home.

A Captain of mine left a Temper-Pedic pillow on my rack and I found out through the grapevine that it came from your exceptional organization.

He showed me a letter that you've sent over 115,000 packages to date, and I will simply say, "well done".

As the Assistant Chief of Staff for logistics of an entire air wing, I can assure you that my aircraft will send these packages to the far reaches of Afghanistan.

Again, "well done", you make me equally as proud to be an American.

Semper Fi,
LtCol James A. Coler
MWHS-3 Det A. G-4, Unit 41007
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 November, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hey there, I just wanted to thank you all for the rest of the pillows and goodies you sent us. Now everyone has a pillow and is very happy. I was able to get the majority of everyone together to take a picture of them with the special banner and the shirts you sent.

That banner is really cool and thoughtful. Please tell the kids we appreciate stuff like that. It definitely shows people still care to take the time to make things like that. It's awesome! With the holidays coming around, the morale really starts to plummet to say the least. Those packages really help and I'm being dead serious. It keeps the Marines motivated!

It's funny because the Marines know when we get packages from "Give 2 the Troops", it will be a better day. Thanks again.

P.S. Sorry the pics didn't come out too well - it was the only camera we had!

R/S
Capt Douglass L. Rauschelbach
MWHS-3, DET A (G-4)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 5 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

USF-I/ITAM MOD, Union III
U.S. Army - The Pentagon

Dated 4 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you for sending care packages for all of the Soldiers within my Brigade. There have been at least 10 boxes that have come with books, magazines, dvds, snacks, Girl Scout cookies, hygiene items, and gym equipment for Soldiers to use.

Because these items came very quickly, I did not wait until Christmas for a few reasons. The Soldiers were aware I received a dozen packages with goodies in them, and I did not want the food to go to waste. Therefore, I made a decision to give these items out as halloween presents for the Soldiers. As one of the Brigade Planners, I have sent many of these boxes to the 1SG of HHC BDE, and to the outlying Checkpoints where Soldiers have very little of anything because they are conducting 24/7 operations with Iraqi Security Forces.

We marked them as Halloween gifts for Soldiers because they arrived here in time for Halloween. Soldiers were very happy to receive goodies out at these Check Points.

We, at the Brigade are ensuring that we are taking care of the Soldiers with the least because it helps to keep their spirits and morale up. I greatly appreciate all that you have done with sending care packages through "Give2TheTroops." I personally was surprised to see a lot of the Soldiers quickly grab up any reading material that came in these packages.

It is impressive to see Soldiers reading to gain as much knowledge as they can, as well as reading for enjoyment. Again, thank you! The Soldiers are enjoying the goodies. I will send pictures to all of you of Soldiers with goodies from the care packages as soon as I can. Your time, effort and donations have not gone unnoticed, and they are greatly appreciated.

I have not received the package of fuses yet, but when I do, I will write you when I do.

Respectfully,
CPT Harold W. Hamblet II
4BCT, 1CD S3 Plans
U.S. Army

Dated 3 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

You are all very special and we appreciate all the goodies. We are sending thank you cards. The Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Soldiers and
civilians are truly thankful for your generosity. The tempur-pedic pillows were a hit!

Please send a big thank you to the Pace University students and the Keller Elementary School kids.

Thanks so much again.
COL Lillian A. Dixon
USF-I/ ITAM MOD (SAG)
U.S. Army

Dated 2 November, 2010
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to drop you a quick note to thank you for the Tempurpedic travel pillows we received today. These pillows are so much appreciated as our unit is getting ready to redeploy seveal members over the next few days. Once again, I am taken back by your generosity and appreciate what your organization does!

Thank you very much,
SMSgt Daniel Franckowiak
379 ELRS/LGRV
U.S. Air Force

Dated 1 November, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks so much for the care packages. The Sleepy's travel pillows were a great idea. I know my guys will use them well. We will continue to utilize everything sent. I’ve attached a photo of my guys and the packages. Thanks again!

MAJ John J. Agnello, CISSP
FA/53
U.S. Army

Dated October 27, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much once again for the HUGE care packages you sent! They were definitely a morale booster here in this unit. We had so much from you that we were able to send stuff to other units at other FOBs.

It's been a great tour and folks from your organization make it even greater and all the worthwhile. As I come down to the end of my tour, I now have a greater appreciation of why we do what we do. It's all about great Americans like yourselves. Your service is just as valuable as ours.

Thanks again ... I just can't say it enough. KEEP DOING WHAT YOU'RE DOING BECAUSE IT'S GOOD AND RIGHTEOUS WORK.

God Bless,
LtCol Lawrence Hicks
CJTF-101 CJ4 / The Pentagon
U.S. Air Force

Dated October 27, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the generous gifts sent from your organization, Give2TheTroops, Inc. The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are truly grateful. We at xxx (OPSEC) thank all of you - organizers, volunteers and donors alike.

Very respectfully,
COL Lillian A. Dixon
USF-I/ ITAM MOD (SAG)
U.S. Army

Dated 26 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you so much for sending all the boxes of goodies! The slushies and bars are delicious and the perfect afternoon snack! The "Otter Pops" are an awesome way to spread cheer and something the soldiers look forward to and ask for!

It is so encouraging knowing there are people & organizations back home like yours that are considering our needs and taking care of us over here. The days get long, so anything that puts a smile on a face helps more than you will ever know!

Thank you,
SGT Anna Tennessen,
HHC 1-147th AVN BN
Wisconsin Army National Guard

Dated 19 October, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Words cannot express the gratitude for the thoughtfulness you've shown us. The care packages were incredible! And they are so appreciated! To all of you at Give2TheTroops, please know how much we all appreciate your support!

CPT Angela Huval
256 IBCT TF Tiger HHC 256
Louisiana Army National Guard

Dated 18 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the package. It was a real joy to open this box and share the contents with fellow Coasties and Army soldiers. Keep up the great work your doing and keep the faith. God be with you.

Very Respectfully,
MK 1 Aaron P. Gentry
Coast Guard RAID Team
U.S. Coast Guard

Dated 10 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

The last time we were in contact, I was in Iraq and Kuwait. It's hard to ever forget your organization's name. I think I sent you a photograph of my Marines and Chuck Norris as well as the cool stockings picture at Christmas time.

Well, the reason I'm writing you is to thank you for the travel size temper pedic pillows and other care packages. Once I opened the boxes up, the items were gone like wild fire. I had to take the pillows for my SNCOs just so the Sgts and below would get one. Yes, I even gave mine away. They were definitely a hot commodity around here and they love them.

You were very kind to think of us over here. Oh, we also appreciated the hygiene gear and goodies. Once again, I put the boxes out and the contents disappeared. Those packages are definitely a morale booster!

Our deepest thanks for sending the packages. We all know it takes a lot of personal time and effort to put the packages together. People like yourselves, the volunteers, and those who donate are why we are over here without a doubt.

Thanks!!

R/S
Capt Douglass L. Rauschelbach
MWHS-3, DET A (G-4)
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 9 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

You guys are amazing! The rest of my Marines loved all the items you sent us. It's cooling down here. It's been about 85° - 90° and it feels cold out now. The hygiene items you sent us were great! There is no PX around here. There is a PX truck that comes around once a month, but by the time it arrives here, it's empty. Well, I want to get this letter to you in the mail now. I just needed to let you know that we received your care packages and really appreciate them.

Thanks,

SSgt Daniel S. Cassel
3/3 India Company, 2nd Platoon, Unit 44080
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 8 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut and Oregon Branches),

My unit has received all of the care packages from you. We are very thankful to have people out there who are care. Everything that was sent is very helpful. The males were fighting for the long socks because winter is on the way and it snows here. All of the socks were too big for the females. Attached is a picture of the Soldiers who work in my shop.

Again thank you so much from the 201ST MI BN Soldiers out of San Antonio, Texas.
SPC Monica L. Dean
HHD, 201ST MIN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 4 October, 2010
Qatar

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I wanted to pass on my squadron's elations for the two very large care packages of personal hygiene items and snacks that your organization sent us. It's great to know that your organization exists. Unfortunately, I feel that a lot of Americans have become detached from our ongoing efforts and the personal sacrifices our service members make on a daily basis. Your token of appreciation and your support meant a lot to every Airman who stopped by my office to browse and take items that they could use from your care packages.

Again, thank you very much,
SMSgt Daniel Franckowiak, Government Task Leader
379 ELRS/LGRV
U.S. Air Force

Dated 3 October, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Andi Grant and Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl David D. Cook. I know you probably don't know me, but Andi's name and G2TT's logo were on several care packages of Tempurpedic pillows that I received on September 11, 2010 along with some very grateful buddies of mine. We've been here in Afghanistan for quite some time and now I made it to October with a grateful heart that God got me this far and with the support of my family, friends and your organization - people who I never met, yet you guys are so supportive of the great sacrifices we make for our loved ones and families.

Heck, when I was offered the opportunity to come to Afghanistan, I didn't think twice and said, "YES!!" Knowing that my wife was pregnant and I would be gone for my son's birth, I still said yes. It's because it is an honor for me to do this for my country. I know God is protecting me and if something happened to me, my wife and my son will be proud of me.

To be honest, I don't think I know of a better way to die for something you believe in. (2nd Corinthians 5:7 - we walk by faith not by sight.) As soon as crap hits the fan, I have in Him and faith that I'll come home in one piece to be a father to my son who was born on June 7th, 2010.

On September 11th, when I woke up at 0600 hours, it wasn't like most mornings. Someone in our Firing Point hung up a poster that said: "NEVER FORGET!" Inside the letters were the names of all the people who died on September 11, 2001 caused by terrorist attacks. It was then that I was burning inside with several different emotions. One was hatred for these terrorists who caused such great heartache in the United States. So many innocent people were killed that day - children, mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, friends, family members ... and for WHAT?!?

The other emotion was pride. Pride for the sacrifices I am willing to do for my country, those innocent people, friends and my family. It's times like these that make me proud to be an AMERICAN and I will NEVER FORGET.

Well, now that I've spilled my guts out to you, I want to thank you again for your support. Thank you to all of you who have not forgotten why we're here and who support us out here.

I've included photos with this letter of my beautiful wife and son, and of me shooting artillery in Afghanistan. (NOTE: due to OPSEC regulations, Give2TheTroops will not scan and post these photos to protect our troops and their families.)

God Bless,

Cpl David D. Cook
1/11 Bravo Battery, Unit 40430
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 30 September, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We have received your first boxes today and greatly appreciate them. I do not think that I can put in one note how much we thank all of you back home for your support! Your organization, your donors and your volunteers encourage us here keep moving and stay strong. Thank you.

Respectfully submitted,
LCpl Joshua Ebaugh
RCT-2 (S-1) Unit 73910
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 28 September, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

I wanted to thank you for the care packages that you sent. They are very much appreciated! The snacks and baby wipes were especially a big hit for the Soldiers going on missions.

Thank you and Blessings,
SPC Devin Shaw, Chaplain Assistant
92nd EN BN
U.S. Army

Dated 23 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

God Bless You. I would like to thank you for the two care packages I have received from you. They were a hit. Don't laugh, but the most meaningful thing that I have received since I have been in Iraq was a box of Cheerios from you. I don't know why I thought so highly of it but it was a hit.

Your care packages were full of stuff and I had to share, not that that was a bad thing. Everybody enjoyed the items and the cards. Again, thank you for your time and effort in taking care of us deployed service members. You need to figure out how to send family members out to us and then you will have it licked. Anyway, thanks again and sorry this thank-you note took a while to get to you.

A little about me. I am a Chief Gunner's Mate with a Seabee Battalion. I am also a Reservist from Minnesota where I left behind a beautiful wife and two lovely daughters. Just about done with my deployment and look forward to getting back home. Thanks again.

Sincerely,

GMC (SCW) John Tveiten, Seabee
NM 21 Bravo Det
U.S. Navy Reserve

Dated 21 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to express my deepest appreciation for what all of you and your organization does for Soldiers deployed. Any and all support from back home makes it a little bit easier to maintain some level of morale. We recently received a care package from your organization that was delivered by LTC Richard Hansen, our Battalion Commander.

Thank you for all the support!

CPT Robert S. Leonard, SC
B CO 1-3 BSTB
U.S. Army

Dated 11 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

Thank you for the great packages. Everyone over here enjoys the constant stream of mail. It’s always nice to know that people appreciate what we do over here. Thank you again for supporting us. We also love the letters that the children wrote. To thank you guys, I had a flag flown over Iraq for you guys.

Unfortunately, we did not make it out with the combat troops before the President’s 1 September deadline. We are now part of “Operation New Dawn” which includes 50,000 U.S. Soldiers stationed all around Iraq . My unit is scheduled to leave sometime in the spring of next year (2011).

Please don’t by any stretch of the imagination think that the war is over. This place is just as dangerous today, as it was a month ago. Please keep the U.S. Service members in your prayers until the last soldier has left Iraq .

Now some good news: Iraq has started to cool off a bit! It’s currently 10:30am and it’s only 93 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Considering that usually it’s over 100° by now, that isn't so bad. The rainy season is also about to start, meaning that this entire country is going to turn into a mud puddle for a couple of months. They actually have a rating for how bad the mud is supposed to be “MUDCON 1, MUDCON 2, etc.” During MUDCON 2 or above, they make you carry and extra pair of shoes with you. This way, if you’re going to the gym for example, they make you change your shoes to the clean pair before you enter. Crazy, eh?

A lot of services are also starting to shut down because of the draw down. We have two post offices on post and are now going down to one; which makes me cringe, since it already takes 30-60 minutes of waiting to send one box. Every time you want to mail an item from here, you have to stand in a huge long line and have the item “inspected”; i.e. you have to dump all your contents out on the counter, and then a USPS representative will inspect each item, and place it back into the box, and seal it for you. He’ll then send you to another huge long line to mail the item. They want to ensure no one sends ammunition home or otherwise prohibited items.

They’re also closing down one dining facility (we have three) and one PX-post exchange (were we can buy toiletries, etc). Again I could go on and on about how long the lines are already in these places, but you get the point.

Bottom line, the quality of life people have been enjoying is quickly deteriorating, but most people aren’t complaining. People find plenty of things to do to lift their spirits. The base commander makes sure that troops are entertained with such things as free guitar lessons, movie nights, comedian nights, poker nights, 5K races, etc.

I also recently got a chance to visit the International Zone (IZ) in Baghdad. You might have seen on the news how they have these huge crossed swords there. I was able to walk right up to them and snap some pictures. While there, I also visited some of Saddam’s old palaces that were bombed at the beginning of the war and never rebuilt. Visiting the places brought great joy to me, since I’m a photographer at heart, and enjoy snapping away at interesting scenery.

Other than that, we’re driving on, working seven days a week, 12 hours per day or more. After a while, you get used to it!

Thank you again for supporting us! God bless!

Best regards,
CPT Daniel E. McCarey
14TH TRANS BN (MC), Military Police
U.S. Army

Dated 10 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

We received a package from you that was sent to one of our unit. I would like to take this time to thank you and to let you know that your efforts are truly appreciated. With all that is going on, on the news, it is nice to know that you haven't forgotten about those who are still here. The sheet sets that you sent were enjoyed by those who took them.

We do appreciate the personal notes and letters, so please continue to do that for all service members. Not everyone here receives mail so those are the MOST prized items!

Thank you again for the care package and for your service to us as well! When I get back home I am interested in participating in your organization, although I am not stationed at or near Oregon. I am stationed in New Mexico. Thanks again for your support!

PV2 Lorelaine G. Hale
U.S. Army

Dated 10 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Thank you for the multitude of items in the care package you sent. You have made a lot of soldiers very happy. 1-6 CAV is an air cavalry squadron composed of OH-58D, Kiowa Warrior helicopters. We currently operate out of several locations throughout North & Central Iraq. There are many pictures of the soldiers you have helped on Facebook and Flicker (search for 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment or Combat Aviation Brigade, 1ID).

Everyone here is keeping busy with tasks ranging from routine maintenance to preparing to turn bases over to the Iraqi Government. We are about half-way through our tour, and everyone is already making plans for when we get home. I can’t think of anything specific we need to make life easier for everyone.

Thanks for keeping all the troops in your thoughts and prayers,

CPT Isaac Wilker
HHT, 1-6 CAV
U.S. Army

Dated 8 September, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm sure you get hundreds of these emails and letters, but here's one more for you: THANK YOU! We received the care packages yesterday and they were absolutely the biggest and best packages that we've had to date! I could not believe how huge the boxes were and how much stuff was in them. There was plenty for everyone here and we spread the wealth around to many, many folks. Special thanks for the laundry bags! They were certainly needed and the PX is always out of them.

Once again, thank you so much and God bless you and God bless G2TT.

v/r,
Lawrence
Lt Col Lawrence C. Hicks, Deputy Director of Logistics
RC-East & CJTF-101 CJ4
U.S. Air Force

Dated 8 September, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks to you all so much for your 2 huge boxes dog treats, accessories, food and movies, etc. We are a Veterinary and we see many K-9's/MWD's. Your two care packages really came at a good time for my unit. It gets tough over here sometimes and any word from home is always a welcome distraction. Your organization is truly a blessing for us and I know you do the same for many others.

God Bless You!
Pete

v/r,

CW3 Peter T. Johnson, Food Safety Officer
72nd Med Det (VS)
U.S. Army

Dated 8 September, 2010
Arabian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

This is PR3 Allison from VFA-32. I'm in the U.S. Navy, deployed in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Today we were lucky enough to receive one of your care packages from your organization, and on behalf of my fellow shipmates and I, we want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your package went a long way, and it really is a morale booster. Please continue doing what you're doing for us, and our fellow troops whether it be the Navy, the Army, the Air Force or the Marines. It's a blessing to have people in your organization who care enough to take time out of your day to write cards, thank you notes, and letters of appreciation - it goes a long way. Thank you and be blessed.

Respectfully Yours,
PR3 BeTracia Allison
Paraloft W/C 13A J-dial: 2010, Strike Fighter Squadron Three-Two
U.S. Navy

Dated 6 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Here are some pictures of the guys with the pillows and everything else you sent. , I do have to admit you all have a great sense of humor lots of whole bean coffee and no grinder? They are breaking the beans with gerbers it's a lot of fun to watch. (I know, you sent the grinders separately - just kidding with you). Thank you so very much for supporting units like ours even when the news says all the combat troops are gone. I just pray that people remember we are still here and still have a lot of work to do to ensure that our children do not have to come over here to fight another war.

1SG Michael Jones
B 3-7 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 6 September, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters),

I just wanted to thank you and your organization for your support. We got some of your care packages the other day. I read every letter from the kids that was in the boxes and really enjoyed hearing from them. I am leaving Afghanistan soon but I am sure that the platoon that is relieving us would appreciate the support. We are stationed at a Combat Outpost.

Once again, thank you very much.

SPC Mark A. Weimar
3rd Plt. Dco 1-4 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 5 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is SSG Bonis. I'm with the 1-64 AR out of Fort Stewart, Georgia. I would like to take this time to say "Thank you so much" for your support - not only for me, but for all my Soldiers out here in Iraq in this boiling hot heat. We just received two very nice care packages that definitely boosted the morale of all my Soldiers.

This is my fourth tour over here in Iraq and your care packages are truly the biggest support that myself and Soldiers have seen this far!

There are Soldiers out here who don't have the support of a friend or family member, so Give2TheTroops is so awesome. Again, Thank You for all that you do not only for my Soldiers but for the Soldiers across the battle field. I know that we're in a new operation called Operation New Dawn, but please don't think that our guys are not out side the wire everyday, so please keep us all in your prayers. I have sent you some photos of my Soldiers and me. If you would like more for your web site just let me know. Have a great and safe Labor Day weekend.

Thank you,

SSG Robert Bonis
FSC 1-64 AR
U.S. Army

Dated 4 September, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received 2 boxes from your organization today and spread the contents out amongst our BDE HQs building. There were loads of smiles from people and many thanks, for which I did not take credit. I told them all it was from people back in the U.S. at Give2TheTroops, Inc. who support us out here in Iraq. It really warms my heart that there are people out there such as you who support us in this manner. Little things such as these make all the difference in the world to our Soldiers here.

I'll tell you a little about the Unit and myself.

We are the 3rd Sustainment Brigade, and our home station is Ft. Stewart, GA. We fall underneath the 3rd Infantry Division and support units with things such as food, water, fuel, ammunition, and other operational logistics. Our current mission is to support draw-down operations, so we move quite a bit of equipment out of Iraq and down to Kuwait for shipment back to the U.S., as well as continuing to provide the units we support the resources they need to function. There are units out there who may leave early, but we will not be one of them because of our critical role in support operations.

I personally work in the Brigade S6 shop. The S6 is in charge of the communications infrastructure for the Brigade and subordinate Battalions. Radio operations, computer / data communications, and anything else relating to those belong to us and are administrated by us. I am the Brigade's Server administrator and Information Management Officer. I assist computer users with problems and keep the 20+ servers finely tuned and working properly as well as other responsibilities.

I am 46 years old and have been in the Army for over 20 years now. I have been married to my wife since 1987, and have 2 kids, a daughter (20 years), and a son (17 years). I am currently on my 4th rotation to Iraq.

I hail from Memphis, TN and came into the Army back in 1983 as a Private in the Arkansas National Guard. I was deployed to Desert Shield/Storm in 1990-1991 and then left the Army. When 9/11 took place, I went back in the Army, not because I like war, but because I believe in freedom and I was appalled at the collapse of the twin towers. (Unlike many, I have not forgotten that fateful day, because it was a turning point in my life.) I was stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC and was brought back as a Specialist with no time-in-grade, (basically starting over). I made rank rather quickly and was deployed the 2nd time in 2005-2006 in Baghdad Iraq as the 18th Airborne Corps Battle NCO of the Battle Defense Operations Center (BDOC).

I had previous computer knowledge and experience and was accepted for WOBC (Warrant Officer Basic Course) in March-September 2007. I was re-assigned to the 3rd Sustainment Brigade in September of 2007 and deployed with the unit already in theater
to Q-West Iraq in October 2007. I re-deployed back to the states in 2008. I stayed in the unit and completed the reset operations and
have now deployed with them yet again.

I just wanted to drop a few lines to my appreciation for your support. Many times we Soldiers wind up in a vacuum, and we don't know what is going on back home. It is a comforting reminder to us that groups such as your have us in their hearts and minds by taking the time and effort to express gratitude. Though it is not why we do what we do, it definitely helps us feel we made the right choices that led us here. We have the greatest country on earth and it is an honor for us to defend it. Sometimes life can be difficult here, but these packages make our days much brighter.

Thanks again for your support!

v/r

CW2 Don Finnell, SC
3rd SB Deputy S6
U.S. Army

Dated 30 August, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you!! My name is Dan and I am an SSD (Specialized Search Dog) Handler in the U.S. Army - deployed to Afghanistan. We find ammo, bombs, IED's and weapons. I am 27 years old and have been in the Army for 7 years. This was my first time in Afghanistan. I was in Iraq for 2 previous tours. My dog is an 8-year-old Golden Retriever and his name is "Flyer". This is his 3rd deployment too!

I really want to thank you for your support and care. The care packages you sent us are awesome as well! I was just talking to my wife at home several days ago about how the "war is pretty much over" in the news, and that nobody cares anymore about us in the "real world."

It's not the "in" or "tendy" thing anymore back in the States to discuss the war. But let me tell you, from someone who is still deployed and over here in the war, it is NOT over by any means. Here is Afghanistan, this place is like Vietnam.

I am so glad to meet you but I am sorry it's in this manner. It is such an awesome feeling to get some things that are good to eat. My wife does not send as many boxes to me because I asked her to send them to other units and let them know someone cares. I know she loves me, so when I get a box from her, it's nice, too.

I will send you some pictures of my dog and me, finding bombs just as soon as I can.

Thanks again for the care packages. If you don't mind, I will be giving my church your information and asking them to put your organization on our prayer list.

Thank you again.

SGT Daniel Feth and SSD "Flyer"
PMO K9
U.S. Army

Dated 26 August, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Oregon/Washington Branch),

Dated 21 August, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

CPT Jeff T. Hastings
718 TC BN HHD
Ohio Army Reserve

Dated 21 August, 2010
Kuwait

Dear Give2TheTroops,

ThANK YOU! I am MA2 Perry Bellino and I received a package from your organization last week and can't thank you enough for it. I am currently serving with the Navy in a Customs Battalion in Kuwait as a Customs Inspector pre-clearing troops coming out of Iraq and Afghanistan on their way home. Your box was a big hit with my shipmates and was quickly emptied before I had time to finish opening it.

My shipmates and I can't thank you and your organization enough. Your box also did come at a good time since I am about to re-deploy home myself very shortly.

Please tell everyone in Give2TheTroops who assisted with this great gift a big "thank you".

Thank you,
MA2 Perry Bellino
NAVELSG
U.S. Navy

Dated 17 August, 2010
Persian Gulf

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I am CS1 Travis Brown. I am writing to say thank you to your organization and everyone else whohas put a smile upon my face and a lot of my Sailor’s faces. We would like to thank you for all that you have done to try to ensure that we are taken care of while we are away from our loved ones. The cards were the best. For someone who doesn’t even know us or who probably will never meet us it was just great to know that someone cares. I just wanted everyone to know that we are grateful to have you there for us in a time like this. Thanks a lot.

V/R

CS1 Travis L. Brown
U.S. Navy

Dated 3 August, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops,

It was my birthday and I received your care package! I want to thank you soooo much. I am away from my wife and my triplets (2 girls and 1 boy) who are 1 year old and mean the world to me. But I am away doing my job keeping them safe. I don't know you, but I love you so much for what you do! Thank you and God bless
your hearts.

///Signed///

SrA Jefferey A. Pena
532 ESFS/EECP
U.S. Air Force

Dated 13 July, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connnecticut Branch),

I was walking in the motor pool yesterday and I visited SGT Travis Hoyle's shop and saw the large box you sent. He mentioned that you had sent other boxes of great stuff during the Battalion's last deployment (third). I truly appreciate your support during our fourth and hopefully last deployment.

Respectfully,
LTC Geoff DeTengo, Commander
64th BSB ¾ ID
U.S. Army

Dated 10 July, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters Branch),

My fellow soldiers and I would like to thank y'all for the 2 care packages we have recived from y'all. I would like to inform y'all that our deployment has been cut short so soon we'll be redeploying back to Texas.

Thanks again and God bless y'all,

PFC Tammy Cumbie
ECO FSC 1-36 IN
U.S. Army

Dated 7 July, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters Branch),

I received your wonderful care package today. My fellow service members and I want to send a Salute and thank you to all who put their time, notes, gifts and and hearts into the care box we opened. We spent a few minutes reading aloud all the kind cards and notes
sent by all of you. Many of us have been far from home for a long time.

The thougtfulness of your group has brought much joy to all of us. Thank you again from all of us here at United States Forces Iraq J6.

Very Respectfully,

SFC Christopher Clay
The Joint Signal Group
U.S. Army

Dated 3 July, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connnecticut Branch),

I’m a Marine with 2/6 and we just arrived in xxxx (OPSEC), Afghanistan. We’re getting ready to replace 1/6. My buddy and I went into the chapel's office to get some comfort items we didn't think to bring. I found almost everything anybody would want. I asked the Chaplain where everything came from and he told me it was all donated by your organization. I was proud to see how many Americans support us over here. I wanted to write back and say thanks. I asked for your address and the Chaplain printed it out for me. It's an honor serving those who support us. Thank you again. You'll be in our minds and hearts.

Semper Fi,
LCpl Acwan, Scout Sniper
2/6 WPNS Company, Unit 73170
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I returned from leave a few days ago with a big package from you and your supporters. I wanted to send you a note thanking you all for all your support and letting you know that nothing went unused. I'll forward your organization's web site to my friends and send you a link of my blog. Thank you again for all your support and hope to see you on our return.

Out Front ...

CW3 Earl A. Graham
Standards, Foxtrot Company, 2-3 Aviation, Task Force Lighthorse
U.S. Army

Dated 17 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops,

I would like to thank you all for everything that you do for soldiers fighting overseas. I received a care package from your Greenville, NC
location today. You all are angels to those who are not stationed at some of the larger FOBs...those of us who don't have access to the little things that would be considered morale boosters. I thank you.

PFC Jamika Williams
82nd Combined Action Team
U.S. Army

Dated 16 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is James Telley and I am the First Sergeant for Bravo Battery 1st BN 11th MAR, I’m serving with SgtMaj Gerald Saunders in Afghanistan. I wanted to thank you for sending us some comfort items for my Marines. I don't really know what else you could provide for them, but anything would be greatly appreciated. I have seen the pillows that you have and I know my Marines love those but anything else that you could provide is more than welcome if you're able to send out more.

Thank you,

1stSgt James Telley
1/11 Bravo Battery
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 16 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you for the previous care packages that you have already sent. My Battery has finally settled in to their new FOB and would really appreciate any addition care packages that could be sent. SgtMaj Saunders had mentioned that were able to send pillows. The Marines would really appreciate any pillows that could be sent.

I currently have xxx (OPSEC) Marines on hand. We are taking over a FOB from the British and they are literally taking everything. With that being said, any creature comforts that you can send will help the Marines feel more at home here.

Again, thanks for everything you do and I hope to hear from you soon.

1stSgt Vernon Derby
3/12 India Battery
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 6 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to drop you a message thanking you for the two great boxes of goodies we received from your organization.

We manage to get packages sent to us, but never with so many excellent items and with the personal touch that these had. The Soldiers enjoyed looking through them and in no time it was picked clean. I was only able to get a few items to send to one of my worse off FOBS.

Please let your staffand volunteers know that it was appreciated by all and thanks so much for the support. Kind of funny that your Headquarters office is out of Connecticut - that's where I'm from too!

Thanks again and you guys are all great Americans and I salute you for what you do.

v/r
CSM William J. Wright
HHC 1-102nd Infantry - TF Iron Gray
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 5 June, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Headquarters Branch),

Thank you soooooo much for the care packages you sent me over here in Iraq. While I do get packages from my mother and family, nothing tugs the heart strings as receiving a care package from a total stranger. I can't express enough how much this means to me to know we have fans and support back home in the states!

Once again, thanks for all you do! God bless and to Ms. Andi Grant: a big "Semper Fi!"

SPC Dwayne Garrison
64th transportation Co., JLTF 57
U.S. Army

Dated 5 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I just wanted to say thank you very much for the two large boxes of assorted personal hygiene items and much needed snack food. I can honestly tell you that we received many boxes but none so far have met the high standards of your care packages! Your selection and choices were excellent and in less than a week the boxesy have been picked clean. All of the Soldiers here were grateful for all of your boxes, including all the cards.

People like your volunteers are very good people and I want to thank you all. The notes inside the bags and the writing on the boxes were also a very nice touch. Hopefully one day, not too far in the future you will not have to ship as many boxes as the Afghans will start to govern themselves. But until then, keep up the great work! You girls and boys are great.

Thank You,
CSM Wright
Task Force Iron Gray
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 4 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Hey, we got your boxes the other day. Those things are HUGE! Daaaaaaaamn! They were both LOADED with all sorts of goodies. I started passing around itmes to everyone out there. Most of the things were quickly snatched up because they were some good quality things. You are the best! Wow, your organization just made our deployment better, we all mean that! Thank you very much!

I didn’t hesitate on grabbing the Axe body wash. How did your organization know that Dark Temptation is my favorite scent? I just ran out of my old bottle yesterday. I bought the entire set at Wal-Mart before I left to Afghanistan. It can with a body spray, deodorant stick, body spray and a few samples of shampoo.

I also read all of the notes/postcards/pictures that the kids wrote. They were all very nice. I’m going to put some on my wall so people can see where they came from. The Chuck Norris book is so awesome, so funny! Ha ha. I have like 5 favorites. Everything in those boxes are just wonderful. Thank you so much, again!

I looked you up on FaceBook and joined your group.

We've all been doing pretty good so far. There's been a few things that have gone bad, but not from our unit, thank God. Two guys got blown up and amputated. I felt pretty bad for them, and that was like around "el dia de las madres" (Mothers Day). Oh! I forgot to wish a late happy Mommy's day to Miss Andi Grant and all the wonderful G2TT volunteer and donor mothers - Wow I'm so late on saying that.

I hope all is going well for G2TT in Connecticut. Talk to you later.

Gracias y Hasta luego,

Juanito

Sgt Juan Torres
9th Comm Battalion DET-59TRC-170 Operator
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 2 June, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

We received another two boxes yesterday. That was awesome. We are in a remote location so things like pillows and grub are a great morale booster. There was a box with about 6 pillows and there was a box with some food. Do you have any more of those pillows? Those are a big hit out here.

Besides that we are working hard and taking over this firebase. The Marines are very motivated and want to do a great job. They understand the mission and are willing to put in the extra hours to accomplish it. We have been in xxxxx (OPSEC) quite a bit lately (which from my understanding will become more frequent) so I might not able to communicate regularly. Tell all of the volunteers thank you for your hard work and their ability to pull together as a team to make the boxes for us. I know how hard they work (I was one of your volunteers when I was a Marine in the New Haven Reserve Center in Connecticut!) I have seen the love and care that each one of your volunters puts into those care packages. Thank you again.

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 27 May, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I received your boxes a few days ago and just wanted to express how thrilled and thankful I and the unit were. Your organization really brightened our day! Especially the care package designed for the three dogs we have here. Words can't express how thankful I am of our supporters.

Just a little about myself: I am a medic here in the Navy. Originally from Burbank, California. I'm here in Afghanistan to help "boost" the healthcare sector. Since our arrival here, we've seen drastic changes in regards to healthcare. It's a great feeling knowing you're making a lasting impact those less fortunate.

We're looking forward to continuing to do great things for the people of xxxx (OPSEC). The weather over the past two days here really started to heat up. We went from the high 80's to 101° in the matter of 48 hours. I'm not sure if I'm mentally prepared for the heat. I hope so, considering this is my 3rd deployment in the Middle East.

Well, I don't want to bore you with a lengthy letter. I jJust want you to know that we truly appreciate all you're doing for the men and women forward deployed. Keep up the good work! Continue to keep us in your prayers.

P.S. If you have Face book, you can follow our unit.

Sincerely,

HM2 Demetrius Hartsfield
Medical Unit
U.S. Navy

Dated 27 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Thank you very much for the care packages! Your support does not go unnoticed. Many things you sent us are helpful to me and the Marines in my unit for our morale and mission accomplishment.

Thank you!

Cpl Theodore R. Frey
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 May, 2010
Afghanistan

My name is David Needham, I’m a Corporal in India BRTY 3/12. I just wanted to say thank you to you and your organization for sending the care packages. It was a good boost of morale for the troops who have not received mail from home. And for the Marines who needed new supplies.

In closing, I just want to say, people like you are the true American Heroes.

Cpl David Needham
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 25 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Hi my name is Cpl Nester Hernandez. I’m currently serving forward in Afghanistan, OEF (Ooperation Enduring Freedom). This will be my second tour to the Middle East. I am a 23-year-old Texan and am proud to serve my country. I am currently a 0811 section chief/Gun 1 as well as a DM (designated Marksman)/ 1^st Platoon Sniper.

Thank you so much to all the staff, volunteers and donors of your organization. I read Andi Grant's story and how she and her son started your organization, while supporting her husband who was deployed during OIF and how it started to snowball from there. It truly touched me because im sure she has a really busy life, who doesn’t? But for her and so many others who stop and take time out of their busy schedulse is very uplifting to us. It shows us know someone cares. It tells us this battle is not fought in vain and that it still matters. That what we do during this time and age will and is only carrying on what so many other Americans have done before me, to protect this nation that I love.

So tonight as you lay into bed or kiss your kids goodnight, sleep well America, Because the US MARINES are protecting you tonight!!

God bless you all!
Semper Fi!!

Cpl Nester Hernandez
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 24 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I want to thank you all for what you do. It is unbelievable how much strength and motivation it give us service members when we got the cards and care packages you all sent.

We are a long way from home and miss our friends and family. It really means a lot to us when people back home thank us for what we do. Even the smallest thank you note goes a long way. A simple thank you or just some shampoo makes our day so much brighter. We thank you all so much for what you do.

The things you do show the spirit of true Americans and it makes us proud to serve our great country. Keep up the awesome dedication, friends. You are sending so many smiles our way!

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

Cpl Tristan Harper
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 23 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for all your support. I read Andi's story and am touched by her dedication and that of her volunteers and donors. The military personnel of today are so blessed to have the support of people like you. God bless you.

Sincerely,
Cpl David R. Wybleg
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 22 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I would like to thank you for the care packages you sent to India Battery 1/11. Even though we have never met, I thank you and your families for the support that you give to the servicemen overseas. God Bless.

Sincerely,
LCpl Moschner (and 1stSgt Vernon Derby)
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 21 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm from the India Battery 3/12, respectively of 1st Battalion, 11th Marines, currently forward deployed in Afghanistan. I would like to take a few minutes of my time to thank you for the care packages you sent. It was the highlight of the day for me personally. A lot of us had smiles on our faces. It really raised our spirits especially when came to the realization that complete strangers took the time to show their appreciation. Regardless of their personal views of what we do or the reason we are called to serve in such a capacity.

For we are much the same as loyal to each other and kinship that forms from doing our time together gives us reason enough regardless of all else.

So as I started, I would once again like to take the time to thank you for all you have done.

I wish the best of fair winds and calm seas.

Sincerely,
LCpl Jeremiah Herzberg
3/12 India BTRY, Unit 40122
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 20 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 have 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 18 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

My name is Cpl Michael Schoepfer. I am currently serving a tour overseas with India Battery, 1^st Battalion 11^th Marine Regiment. Needless to say it is very hot and lately we have been getting hit with ridiculous dust storms that make me wonder why anyone would want to live in this mess.

Last night our 1^st Sergeant gave us a care package from your organization. It was filled with many useful items. We greatly appreciate the fact that people like you would take the time out of your lives to support us. It is especially nice because before we left a lot of people on the news belittled our mission and use their freedom to protest the defenders of it. We are all very happy you found our unit and gave us such a generous gift.

If in the future you decide to send us another package the Marines of our unit greatly appreciated everything and the only thing everyone I asked mentioned was boot socks. So even if we don’t hear from you I am sure Marines all over the world would appreciate it. Again, thank you from all of us.

Sincerely,
Cpl Michael Schoepfer
India Battery, 1^st Battalion, 11^th Marine Regiment
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 17 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

You guys made all my troops and I happy to receive all the items you sent. It’s without a doubt not enough to say thank you. I’m truly lost for words and can’t imagine anyone caring so much about people they don’t know! This really opens my heart. I told my family, my mom will look up your organization online and donate because I told her how much you guys do for us. Thank you.

PFC Nicolette Lindo
173^rd BSB HHC
Connecticut Army National Guard

Dated 12 May, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for kindness! Your support means so much to each of us Soldiers! The Girl Scout cookies have been a huge hit! The troops really fight over the short bread ones – too funny! I never took a liking to those. I like the coconut ones (Samoas). So there’s no fight here.

Well, thank you again! We truly appreciate everything you’re doing for all the Soldiers!

BTW, I run our battalion Facebook page. If you get a chance, please check us out when you can.

LT Crystal D. Lee
B Co. 203d BSB, 3HBCT, 3ID
U.S. Army

Dated 14 May, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I myself am from New England - actually Canton, Massachusetts. When I'm home, I'm always in New Haven partying at my friend's school. My name is LCpl Joseph Derby and I write the majority of the thank-you letters for our unit. Our Marines here really appreciate what you do. The Chaplain here with 274th makes sure that all of the items you send to us are used and shared by all the Marines in our unit.

Once again, thank you.

LCpl Joseph P. Derby
MWSS – 274 Comm., Unit # 78110
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 27 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I'm just writing to say hello and thank you and let you know how crappy my deployment has been. I am sure you all get TONS of letters and emails from many troops thanking you - both those who are deployed now and those who were deployed and received care packages from you.

Your organization rock! You guys have been helping us all these years and are incredible! Have I given you my thanks yet? Well just in case ... THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! Shouts out to all of you! Hope all is well!

Sgt Juan Torres
9th Comm Battalion DET-59TRC-170 Operator
U.S. Marine Corps

Dated 26 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much!!!! MWD (military working dog) "Baddy" and I are in Afghanistan. My Name is SSgt Schley. I am in the USAF A/D as an MWD Handler. Baddy And I cannot thank you guys enough. Sorry it took us so long to write you, but we are pretty busy. Baddy is a
Patrol Explosive Detector Dog (PEDD) which means he bites and finds explosives. The best of both worlds.

Baddy is going to be 7 years old in June and he loved the treats you sent him. Eventually there will be 8 dogs at this location. Got to run.

Thanks again.

V/R,

SSgt Jerod D. Schley and MWD "Baddy"
TF Yukon K9 Handler
U.S. Air Force

Dated 25 April, 2010
Afghanistan

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thanks for all the boxes you've been sending! It has helped out my whole platoon and we really appreciate it. So how are things going for you and your organization these days? I have found myself deployed again but hopefully for the last time! Hopefully this will be my last deployment and I will not have to sign up againn and do this anymore.

When I get back I will be going to Texas to see my brother and sister, Jeannette.

Take care and thanks again,

Bill
SSG William Manchester
RES USAR FORSCOM
U.S. Army Reserve

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 10 April, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

I am CPT Toni Brown and I am writing this e-mail to thank your organization for the care package x that you mailed to CPT Ray Krieger. We all enjoyed the treats that were in the box. It's always a joy to get mail over here. Once again, thank you for supporting us Troops.

V/R,
CPT Toni N. Brown, USD - N-G-1 Awards & Actions OIC
HHC, G1 3ID , Task Force Marne
U.S. Army

Dated 8 April, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

Thank you so much for the care package you sent us. The Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division G-1 really appreciate your kind and thoughtful gifts. We are currently deployed to Iraq. We are located near the city of xxxxx (OPSEC).

Many of us are on our second, third or, in a few cases, our fourth deployments to Iraq. It is hard being away from friends and family but
for me this mission is worth it. We are helping build a safe, secure and stable Iraq. Attacks are a fraction of what they were a year ago and most Iraqis are committed to building a bright new future for their country. There are many challenges ahead but I am very optimistic about the direction things are going.

Thank you again for your generous gifts! I was truly amazed and shocked with the games, personalized cards (and of course the Girl
Scout cookies) you included. You put a smile on every Solider's face here. It makes us all feel so good that folks back home are thinking about us.

v/r
CPT Ray Krieger, AG
HHC, G1 3ID , Task Force Marne
U.S. Army

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

Dated 6 April, 2010
Iraq

Dear Give2TheTroops (Connecticut Branch),

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,

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,

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,

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,

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,

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,

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,

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 (cannot disclose)

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

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