Blue Star Moms :: Other California Chapters

Thank You Letters

2007 Thank You Emails from the Troops

December 2007 -- Thank Yous

Dear Blue Star Moms,
"Season's Greeting" to you all and everyone who put this package together to send to my unit. I would like to thank you all for your support on behalf of the military and civilians that work here with us. It is good to know that we are being supported by our fellow Americans. The soldiers here appreciate everything that we received. For many of them this is their first Christmas away from home, family and friends. I know it is hard on them being away from their love ones and I know that receiving packages from you all help keeps their sprit high and it motivates them to continue doing the great job that they are doing. Because of you, they know that someone truly cares and they are being thought of. It is always good to know that under these circumstances we are still being thought of at this time of the year. Form the bottom of my heart I would like to say, Thank you for everything.
Very respectfully,
S. Friday

Thank you for the package from blue star moms. it means alot to the marines and sailors in iraq to know that we are being supported by the folks back home.
G. Snodgrass

To the Blue Star Moms,
I just want to sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart and the rest of the troops and Soldiers you have touched thank you for your AWESOME care packages!!! I'm currently an Active Duty Air Force member working in the Chapel that you have 'adopted' and I have been sharing the wealth of your packages with all the members serving over here away from home. Every time we receive a care package it's like a piece of Christmas for us for we appreciate and miss the simple things in life that you can not get here in Iraq--such as a simple Hershey's chocolate bar or a cup of flavored oatmeal, pop tarts, tea for our running noses, coffee for our mornings, bubble gum to chew, loll pops, and all the other warm wishes you put into each package of Love.
We appreciate you, we appreciate what you do for us and we simply down right Love you! We are very taken care of due to all the items each and every one of you send--regardless of what you put into each box, every item is 'golden' to the troops and soldiers over here. We also appreciate the notes of smiles and positive words from back home (we miss the USA).Thank you so much for thinking of us and warming our hearts; making not only our holidays a little more special but each and every day a little more uplifting.
THANK YOU,
From unit 1/Chapel Staff
Sincerely M. Santaella

Thank you so much for the gifts, hygiene items, and snacks your organization sends to our troops!
They are a definite morale booster and reassurance that the American people are behind our troops. It means so much to them to know that they are being thought of throughout their deployment here.
From the Girls Scout Troop 168 of Alamo, Ca and Troop 836 of Danville, Ca to the students of Mrs. Williams of Tassajara Hills Kindergarten of Danville, Ca we thank all of you for your support and kind words of encouragement.
You are truly making a difference out here and making a positive impact. Thanks again.
Sincerely,
L. Cuadrado

Hi there!
I received 2 care packages from you and I wanted to say thank you for them. I really appreciate you taking the time out to let us that you support us. The pillow cases was loved the best. Happy Holiday! Have a wonderful day!
Best wishes,
Kim

Blue Star Moms;
I wanted to drop a quick note thanking your organization for mailing so many care packages to the soldiers in my platoon. We are in a remote site and get mail delivered once a week, so when they guys got two packages apiece... it was a great boost to thier morale. I can't thank you enough for what you have done, God bless you all,
J. Totten

To All The Blue Star Moms and Their Supporters,
My Marines, soldiers, sailors and I are currently operating in a remote part of Iraq where we only get mail once a week. Today, 24 December 2007, I received two care packages from your organization. Needless to say, they are the only gifts (besides leading these brave young men) that I will receive this Christmas. I was touched by the letters and items in these two packages. Just knowing that someone is thinking about us and taking the time to send us things is such a huge morale boost for all of us during this holiday season. I just wanted to take a moment to thank each of you for your tireless efforts in supporting all U.S. service members who are away from home this holiday season. Your generous and unwavering support reminds us everyday why we serve and keeps us motivated to do our very best. Thank you and may God bless each of you and your families during this holiday season.
Semper Fidelis,
M. List

Hi, I am currently deployed to Iraq in support of OIF, I recently received 2 care packages from your organization and wish to send this email to say thank you very much, It is organizations like yours that help to keep us focused on what we are doing here, not so much for what you send us, but knowing that there are people apart from family members who really care for us and our safety. Once again thank you very much.
--G. Jemmott

I just wanted say thank you for what you guys are doing. Somebody like myself without any family it really means alot. Thank you very much,
--J. Volz

Thank you for your support and love. So many people are quick to tell us that what we are doing here is wrong and crucify the individual Soldier when their political views are not conducive to current military actions. They quickly forget that we are people too, and that we committed to defend our country under any circumstances regardless of our personal opinions on the politics of the matter. Itâs reassuring to see support in these days of sensationalized negative war time media coverage. Thank you, I hope you all have a happy and safe holiday season.
-M. LaDuke

Dear Blue Star Moms,
I want to thank you so much for the care package that I received recently from your organization. It was beautifully constructed with lots of goodies and heartfelt wishes. It definitely warmed my heart this holiday season, even if it doesn't get all that cold here in Iraq. I've seen smiles on many faces because of your care packages, and I'd like to send a personal thank you. I'd also like to thank specifically Troop 1592 and Micaela Dougherty, for their personal messages. The Operation Pillowcase Moms are also very sweet, and I'd like to thank them.

I'm working in a military police unit over here in Iraq, and it's been a pretty interesting year so far. We're looking forward to going home in a few months, so it's very nice to see some wonderful reminders of Christmas. I hope you all are having a very happy holiday, and once again, thank you very much for your time and gifts!
-P. T. Kimball

Blue Star Moms,
Thank you so much for the goodies. It sure brightens our days when we get these packages from home. It means the world to us and helps us get through our deployments knowing that we have the support from groups like yours. Please send my thanks throughout your organization.
Happy holidays and God bless.
-Pieraccini

To the moms, families and friends of Blue Star Moms,
Thank you so much for the gifts, hygiene items, and snacks your organization sends to our troops! They are a definite morale booster and reassurance that the American people are behind our troops. It means so much to them to know that they are being thought of throughout their deployment here.

From the Girls Scout Troop 168 of Alamo, Ca and Troop 836 of Danville, Ca to the students of Mrs. Williams of Tassajara Hills Kindergarten of Danville, Ca we thank all of you for your support and kind words of encouragement. You are truly making a difference out here and making a positive impact.
Sincerely,
-L. Cuadrado

Just received your care package. I would like to personally thank you for your support and kind words. On behalf of my squadron, we definitely are grateful. It makes our duty a lot easier knowing that we have the support of the American people back home. God bless you all. We will continue to protect freedom from those who threaten it.
-M. Peeler

I received my Blue Star Mom package today and it was full of all kinds of goodies. I've already munched on some of the snacks, I can't wait to try the coffee, I love the beautiful pillowcase, and the greeting cards came at just the right time. It's nice to know that people back home support us. It's also nice to receive a surprise in the mail. There are a few people here who wouldn't get anything from home if weren't for caring people like you. Please keep doing what you're doing knowing thatÊyour efforts are truly appreciated by everyone here.
Thank you so much,
-J. Sosa

I would really like to thank you for the Care Package I received. My Team and I really appreciate the effort you're making. It is great to know that you all support us 100%. Right now is a hard time for the many of the soldiers being away from home especially during the Holidays from our families and friends. Thanks to you we have received some holiday joy to break up the day to day routine. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and we are very proud to serve our country in a time of need.
- B. Reuer

Date: Thu, 23 Aug 2007

    Just wanted to say thanks for all you do. So many people say they support the troops and then launch into what is wrong with the world... Some say the same but buy a yellow ribbon magnet and then launch into why they dislike the government.
    It's so great of you to actually take some time to make us feel special. People don't realize how hard it is for troops. They don't realize how easy it is to see a soldier and buy him his 2.99 meal at Mcdonalds. It goes such a long way. I'm a Captain in the US Air Force, and a flyer on top of that. I say that to make an example. I am fairly high profile and in over 4 years... I have had one meal bought for me, by a retired F-111 Pilot. I don't shed a tear much anymore but it meant a lot to me. Not the meal, but the fact that someone actually cared. I use my position as a gauge, and it makes me sad that so many 18 year old kids never get a thanks, for I know that if I never get a nod walking around that there's no way my troops are getting thanks. That's whom I truly care about.
    I wish this would get more exposure, but my troops aren't self serving, they aren't going to ask. There are things available for them but they aren't going to ask. They do not think they deserve anything. Companies use this to say they support the troops but only if the troops ask for it.
    Again let me stress that is not about a free meal, or a 10% discount on a tool set. I just see my boys, girls, and friends going off to war and no one can even say thanks unless they are using it to make a point. We've all lost buddies, friends, and family. It makes it a little easier to bear when someone you never knew tells my boys their sacrifice means something. They'd do it anyway, but it would mean so much.

Thanks for all you do,
J Brown
OEF

To whom it may concern,
I'm emailing to inform your organization that I received a care package in the mail last week. I truly appreciate the care package and everything your organization is doing to support the troops. I'm a mother of three little girls, so it's very easy for my morale to get down at times, but kind gestures such as this are exactly what we need when we're away from home.
Thanks again, K. Glover

Thanks for the package.
In 22 years in the ARMY and 3 deployments I never before received a package. Now I know how soldiers feel when they receive one of these nice packages. My soldiers and I thank you for taking your time to help and bring a smile to us.
God bless you all.
V. Aponte

Thank you to all for the package. I just returned from R&R and I was really depressed and having a package here to open helped. Thank You - but please note, I'm no hero - just doing my job. Please don't forget about the loved ones we leave behind to carry on with their lives without us.
J. Kangas

To all the Blue Star Moms:
My son is on the USS John C Stennis CVN-74 deployed in the Arabian Sea. July 2 his division recieved packages from you. He said it was like Christmas, everyone getting their packages and the gifts inside. He said it was like you guys knew just what each one wanted or needed, he's a cowboy and recieved the movie Tombstone in his, another girl desperately needed socks, she had socks in hers and it just goes on and on like this. And then all the goodies inside the boxes, candy, cookies, gum, toiletries, etc. were top notch stuff. Alot of these guys have no family to send them care packages and this just let them know someone cares. For awhile they could forget about being homesick and just have a good time. They all appreciated this very very much and it was shared by all. They THANK YOU and we THANK YOU for all you do for our troops.
Proud Parents of a Sailor Jim and Tresa

Hey, SGT Barton,
I'm deployed to iraq on my second tour. so far i got about 20 months all together in this country. 7 months so far this tour with about 7 more to go. I received a care package from this organization and i want to send my Thanks to all that put together these packages to send over here to soldiers. I must say i tore into that package and ate all the food the first day. Where we are we don't have any chow hall or anything like that, only MRE's, and after a few months of eating those things you just start not eating much at all. I would like to ask that if you happen to send any more packages my way please send things like Tuna meals and chicken meals, that are ready to eat. Tuna and chicken meals are the best thing that a soldier can have sent to him in my area. I am at a small Combat out post in east baghdad, Im in the 82nd Airborne out of fort bragg. Im a CaV Scout.
M. Barton

Blue Star Moms,
Thank you for the care package I received from you. I received the package yesterday. It was great coming into work and getting told I had mail. It feels like Christmas sometimes when you hear about mail. People do not know what was sent to them, but it brightens everyone's day to receive packages. I shared your package with fellow Corpsman I work with, and some of the Marines we all take care of. Thank you again for the package. It meant a lot to me.
T. Sean

We just got your package yesterday and I just wanted to extend our thanks for thinking about us. For some it was the first package they have received all deployment so it really means a lot. Everyone was really excited to receive an R-division package for everyone to share. You and your organization do more for this country then a lot of people know. Thank you.
V/R
DCFN(SW) ANTONIO MARTINEZ

Thank you very much for your support. I know my younger troops will really appreciate receiving a bit of America here overseas. Thank you for all you do and for your wonderful organization.
Take care and thank you again,
Capt. Bryan Purtell
US Air Force

Ladies,
I just received your care package filled with coffee and snacks :) Thank you so much!!! The coffee had a note attached from "an admirer in Walnut Creek, CA". Please tell her thank you so much! Coffee is always welcomed over here. I know I need the caffeine to get through the day especially if I've been on a mission the night before!
You're kindness warms my heart and soul! It really helps to know that there are people like you back in the states to watch out for us and our families.
I am currently stationed at Camp Arfijan, Kuwait and have left behind my 2 young children. They are in great care with my mom but I miss them more than words can say. It is Moms like you who make it possible for me to continue to do my job and serve our great country day in and day out.
Again, thank you for your kindness from me and all my guys :)
V/r
YN1(SW/AW) Amy Miller

Dear Blue Star Moms,
I would like to thank you for the care package that you sent me the other day. It was nice to receive a package from home while I am so far away in the desert. It's nice to know that there are people out there that care about us and what we do over here. Thank you for all of your support. All of the snacks and candy inside are greatly appreciated, and they will come in handy in the coming weeks.
As for a little about myself, my name is SSG Brandon Hurley and I am from West Allis, WI. I am in the National Guard, and my job here in Iraq is the unit Nuclear Biological Chemical NCO. When I am not occupied doing that I work in the supply section as the Supply Specialist. My main duties involve ordering and processing requests for clothing, office supplies, and equipment. I am also involved in distributing the equipment, and driving in supply convoys to other bases. I am employed as a police officer on the civilian side back home in Wisconsin.
Thank you again for all of your support. Have a good rest of the day. Take care.
Sincerely,
SSG Brandon Hurley

Hello,
Being an OIF 1 vet I think it is great what you are doing. Believe me when you are there, nothing quite lifts your spirit as much as receiving something to show people care. My most memorable item I received was a card from a second grader from a school I never heard of and a state I had never been to. I kept that card while there to remind me of what we were fighting for, and I still have that card displayed at home today.
Keep up the great work.
1LT Lynn Whitsitt

Hi, I'm SFC Wallace and I am from Charlotte, NC. My Spouse sent you guys an email a couple of months after I got mobilized. Since then you have sent me plenty of care packages throughout my deployment. I am so grateful that you all have taken to me along with others as part of your family. I wanted to personally thank all of you for being such great Morale Booster's. My tour here is coming to an end but you all will always be in my thought's and prayer's. Just to let you know I have received more care packages from Bluestarmoms than I received from my own Family Readiness Team. Thank you so much for what you do and continue to bless other Soldier's, Airmen and Sailor's as this Saga continues here in the Middle East.
SFC Wallace, Ronald

2006 Care Packages

Letters from the Troops

Dear Moms,
I just receive your package and I just want to Let you know how happy and how much all the soldiers here, appreciate it, We are here for you all, even if we need to sacrifice our lives we do it we honor, when we do things with that word on mind, we don't care to give all what we have. People like you make us feel more grateful for our big nation and people. I want to know a couple of address from those great Kids and families that sent those beautiful messages in the cards to reply them. Again Thank you for what you doing for us and GOD BLESS YOU ALL. MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Thank you,
CW2 Israel Gonzalez Hurtado

Dear Blue Star Moms,
Thank you for the nice care package. My troops and I enjoyed the thoughtfulness of the package. It is nice to have the support from home. This is my second tour to Iraq. For some of my troops it is there first tour over here. It is nice to have a package waiting for you after a mission. My troops and I want to thank you again for the package, we enjoyed it very much. God bless you all and may you have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.
Sgt DeVon Thomas

I just wanted to say thanks from me and the troops here in Baghdad. A personal thank you goes out to a motivated and inspirational, true American Ryan Loofbourrow of Boy Scout Troop 84, who packed and shipped goodies to me. Thank for your support Ryan, you're the reason we fight. No return address for Ryan was enclosed. Please make sure he is thanked for me.
John (Geno) Gennari

Thank you for sending me a care package. I actually received two from you guys and I just wanted to say thank you and god bless.
SFC Wallace, Ronald

Dear Blue Star Moms...
Greetings and happy holidays from Kuwait! I received a comforting care package from you all. Thank you! I am currently deployed and assigned to the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing at Ali Al Salem AB, and hoping to be home soon in February 2007, back to California. I am here with fellow troops from Travis AFB, CA joining other airmen from all over our great country. Working along with our sister branches, coalition forces from Japan, Korea, Australia and US contractors we are supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. We have a high operations tempo and it keeps everyone here busy. My mission as an Aerial Porter is transporting cargo, equipment, supplies and troops in/out of the combat AOR (Area Of Responsibility), so my job is meaningful to keeping the freedom fighters moving. Salem AB is also the Army's R&R place and get-away from the fight in Iraq, so we are constantly transporting troops in and out of the AOR to get a much needed day-off from the field. I have shared the care package with fellow hard-working airmen and soldiers who wanted me to express their appreciation and thank you for the dedicated efforts to preparing and sending comfort items to us from home. You all have touched our hearts and made the holidays more enjoyable with filled goodies in the care packages, bringing a satisfying smile! Again, on behalf of the airmen here at Salem, Kuwait and the many troops that have enjoyed your packages everywhereÉwe applaud the Blue Star Moms and all the supporting volunteers that keep our morale high. Thank you!
Albert Cayabyab, TSgt, USAF

Thank you very much for the carepackage. My fellow co-workers and I really enjoyed the beautiful cards. It brought a big smile to our faces!
V/r
386 AEW/WOC

Hello to all, My name is TSgt John Henry and I am writing you to say thank you for the wonderful care package that I received from on 12 Dec and today. I will definitely put the the items to good use. It is always nice to receive items that we need from support groups like you! Again let me say Thank You very much and Thank You for your continued support!
V/R
JOHN HENRY

Dear Ma'am, I want to express my deepest appreciation and thanks for your generous gifts. We were thrilled to receive them. I had given the packages to some soldiers who rarely receive packages so it was fun to see them get excited about open your gifts. It is a tremendous feeling to know that folks back home support our mission to defend the freedoms we have. We are stationed in Bagdad. It is pretty safe here but we do have mortar rounds land on base every once in a while. On Dec 7, 2PM, a number of rounds were launced and landed all around our base. It is my understanding that one person was killed and a number were wounded. We had two rounds land 50 yards from our dental clinic and trailers that we live in. They were thunderous explosions that shook the building. We were fortunate that it landed far enough from us so that few people were injured. One lady was wounded from shrapnel from the explosion but all in all we have been safe so far. Our unit consists of 17 individuals; 6 dentists and 11 support personnel. Our length of tour is 1 year but some of us have a tour of 6 months. Our mission is to support all coalition forces including Iraqi but we pretty much treat anyone coming into the clinic, particularly for emergency procedures. We are kept pretty busy which makes the time go by quickly. Again, I want to thank you for your generosity and thoughtfulness in sending your gifts of love and support.
Sincerely,
COL Karl K. Furukawa

Blue Star Moms,
On the behalf of the WOC, I would like to thank you for all of the items that you have sent to us. Being away from home at this time of year is very difficult for all of us. Receiving packages from home makes these times easier to deal with. So we would like to thank you and yours for thinking of us and taking the time during this holiday season, to show us your support. We would also like to wish you and yours, Happy Holidays. Thank you again.
Sincerely,
Tsgt Richard C. Davis

THANK YOU BLUE-STAR-MOMS,
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE CARE PACKAGES THAT I RECEIVED. IT'S NICE TO KNOW THAT WE ARE STILL IN EVERYONE THOUGHTS. I SAY THIS BECAUSE WE GET SO CAUGHT UP IN GETTING MISSIONS DONE THAT WE LOSE THAT TOUCH WITH REALITY. BY REALITY I MEAN ALL THE CARING CITIZEN IN THE U.S. LIKE YOU LADIES, ALL WHO HELP TO CREATE THIS GREAT ORGANIZATION, AND OUR FAMILIES.
ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU..
SPC BELTRAN, HILARIO / U.S. ARMY

Dear Blue Star Moms,
I received a package from you today and I appreciate it very much. Everything in it will be shared with my fellow hardworking shipmates. We all appreciate your support as it helps us get our job done. Again, thank you very very much.
Petty Officer Evans, Andrew USN

Dear Bluestar Moms,
On behalf of Micheal Denton and the rest of us here in AFghanistan we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the thoughful packages and letters. it is always a good warm feeling to know that there are those in the states that are thining about us and caring for us. the socks, snacks, beenie, and lights will go along way. we are already string up the lights and our small home away from home is starting to look a bit more like Christmas. Please thank all that have helped.
Melanie Waver, Micheal Denton, and the rest of the 06-07

Thank you for the package it really made me happy, i just received it and was i surprised , my friends were quick to ask for some of the goodies, they send their regards also. Well i just wanted to let u know i really appreciated it, the fact that someone showin they really care means something,i know i said it like fifty times already but thanks again see ya.

I received a box from the Blue Star Mothers today. They sent a lot of shampoo and lotions. They also included two letters, one from a 6-yr-old and one from a 15-yr-old. I'll write them tonight and mail off their letters tomorrow. I'm grateful for the shampoo and will give it to a co-worker here in my building so she can distribute it to the Iraqi children at a hospital she visits almost weekly. The Blue Star Mothers have been busy. We've (our unit) received a lot of packages from several chapters throughout the country. Thank you to all of you!! Each package lets us know that you guys support us and haven't forgotten about us.
Elaine Mitchell

December 15,2006
Thank you very much for the carepackage. My fellow co-workers and I really enjoyed the beautiful cards. It brought a big smile to our faces!
Thank you so much for the boxes of goodies you all sent. Myself and the twelve other in people that I work with are stuck here working 12 hour shifts 7 days a week no windows one door away from our loved ones; we appreciate anything we can get to help us forget everything that is going on over here. It's nice to know that people have not forgotten about the troops especially during this time of year. Thank you.
SSgt Quartrone USAF

Hello Blue star Moms,
I received your package the other day. It was great to receive a package from someone I do not even know. I was not aware of your organization until that package arrived. Some stuff I could use and some I did not need. However, one can always find another airman, soilder, sailor or marine who could use what I could not. So approximately four people got to use something out the the box you sent.
I do have a question. In my box, there was a small easter bunny pooh bear from 1999. I was wondering if someones child had maybe dropped it in the box by accident. If so, I will gladdly send it back to the little person who might be looking for it. If not, I will hold this little bear until I get home to my son who turned 2 three days after I had left for Afghanistan. But I would hate to think someone elses chil might be missing their pooh bear. Please let me know if a child is missing their bear. This box originated from San Ramon CA.
Thank you again for the box of goodies.
Sincerely,
SSGT Jude Snell
[note: he was told to hold onto the bunnypooh for his son as it was donated]

I am in Iraq and I noticed the packages you were sending out and I wanted to take the time to thank you for all your support and everything you are doing. I feel even more proud of what you are doing because I am from the bay area. I grew up in the Fisherman's Wharf district. Your packages have boost up the morale of all the Soldiers here and have shown us the public is supporting us. Especially this time of year it is difficult to be away from the family, but your support has ease some of the grief being so far away from friends and family. I would like to see what needs to do to done to be added to your list for care packages and letters? I have Soldiers here that could really use some good news from home to help them out. Please let me know how we can help you also while we are here. Thanks again for everything.
Andy Wong

Thank you for your care package i recieved it today in the mail. I can't tell you how much this means to use that we receive boxs from home and from people who are care about us and what we are doing. I shared the box with my buddies already and they also wanted to thank you. I have to go but know that what you have done has made the difference in a soldiers life.
Thank you,
Sgt. Dean and the 811th Ordnance Company

December 14,2006
We got the Blue Star Mom's packages today. They are much appreciated by everyone as I put them out in the common areas for everyone to take what they wanted." He also said that they are quite the hit and there was lots of joking and commotion in the common area around the packages. Thanks to everyone who made this possible!

Thanks for the great care package. It came in perfect time for XMas!
SSG Mike O'Brien

I just received your package today, and I have to admit, I can use everything that was in there! Thank you so much for all the time and effort that I'm sure it took to put it together! I especially enjoyed the notes and cards from the students. They really lifted my day over here in Fallujah. It's very encouraging to know that folks back home are supporting us. Once again, Thank you very much!
v.r
Cpt Steve Sandoval

December 13,2006
Dear Blue Star Moms,
I recently received a care package and wanted to say thanks! It was really awesome! There weren't any names or email addresses to reply to, so I thought this would be the best way. Please tell anyone who contributed we said hello and thank you.
I'm 27 and from the northeast. My squadron over here is a small unit of Air Force people from bases all over the world. The weather here is pretty nice right now, but it's starting to get colder, relatively anyway.
Well, thanks again for the CD, YoYo's, cards, food, and everything else you sent! Things like that really do make a difference to people over here, especially for some of the guys who don't have family or friends who write. Be safe and Happy Holidays.
Chris Skow

I received a care package yesterday from your organization. I thank your for your time and dedication to support soldiers like myself deployed in Iraq. One of the most satisfying things for soldiers is to receive a package in the mail from the homefront. It was appreciated. Thank you very much.
SFC Marcus Howard

December 12,2006
I received two boxes from you yesterday. On behalf of my team and myself, I want to say a big THANK YOU and tell you how much we appreciate everything you sent to us. We are in a unique situation here because we are in South America on a six month deployment in support of counter drug operations. We definitely have it better here than those in Iraq and Afghanistan but we often feel forgotten, your packages reminded us that we are not forgotten by everyone. The majority of my team here, were in Iraq this time last year on a six month deployment, so this is a welcome relief for us. Once again thank you so much and please keep up the GREAT work you are doing, it does make a difference.
Parrish S. Hollingsworth, TSgt, USAF

To: Blue Star Moms Organization
Thanks for sending me a personnel support package. It was a surprise to receive such a lovely gift of treats. I've been in the US Air Force for 27 years and this is the first time I've received a personnel gift with my name on it from an outside organization. It's our family member of the US that keep us going in fighting the Global War on Terrorism. We all will share this lovely gift. Thanks again for your support.
Raleigh Addy, SMSgt

Thank you for the package that I received, it is always good to know that we soldiers are not forgot about when we are so far from home..........Thank you, James Brooks 2Lt

To Whom It May Concern:
I wish to address this letter to all those that have been what I now consider the true heroes in the Global War on Terror. Thank you to the mothers and families that had taken your personal time and resources to send us these wonderful packages and gift while we are deployed. Coming from the SF bay area; I too take the great pride that there are people close to home of my family sending packages to a soldier that they have never met.
The one that touched me the most was the first package that I recieved on my birthday; though I have no family and now consider the military to be my family; I now also consider the members of your organization to be members of my extended family as well. I am forever grateful.
When all is done and we come home with pride and honor I would be proud to treat anyone that is need of help. Thank you for your support; may the higher power in your lives continue to touch you all.
Sincerely, MJ Burch

Hello,
I received a care package from Blue Star Moms today and it was GREAT!!! Just to even be thought of was the best part. I work hand in hand with some Iraqi Air Force troops and I shared the cards with them which they love.
They don't understand our concept of Christmas but the decoration was a hit regardless. Thanks so much for the care package and for thinking of me!
MSgt. John Nash, USAF

December 11,2006
Dear Blue Star Mom's,
This is A1C Eric Martin and I am writing to say THANK YOU for your support. It's nice to know that there are people just like you who are willing to help others in a time of need. The Hot Wheels were a hit and they were gone in seconds!!! These kids have never had anything their whole lives so it felt really good to just give them something to play with. I couldn't have done it without your organization and I am amazed how many people send stuff out here. It really shows that some Americans care back home and are willing to aid in any way possible. Again, I want to say Thank You and give my blessings to all of you!!!
Take Care,

December 10, 2006
Hello from Iraq!!!
My name is Karren Brooks. I am currently in Iraq. Today I received a care package from you. I wanted to say thank you very much for your support. I really appreciate everything that you sent to me. My colleagues and I had a good time going through the box and acquiring the things that we wanted. I really appreceiate organizations like yours and people like you who take the time out to show the troops that you care.

December 7,2006
Wow! I just received one of your care packages. It was a great assortment of "stuff". I took some of my favorite items out (shhhhh) and then put the rest of it out in our common areas to share with my fellow Airmen. Rest assured that none of it will go to waste. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support, thoughts and prayers that are going out to the troops. If possible please relay my deepest thanks to Boy Scout Troop 815 in Danville, California and the residents of Danville for their generous donations. I salute the Blue Star Moms and all their partners! Your efforts mean so much over in this part of the world.
Sincerely,
MSgt Greg Pierce
Air Force First Sergeant

December 6,2006
Blue Star Moms,
Thank you so much for your care package! It means a lot to be remembered by people in the states, and all the more amazing that perfect strangers such as yourself take it upon yourselves to support us here. I'm afraid not everyone who receives the love you send will be able to tell you just how thankful they are, but I want you to know that you are making a difference in the lives of many. Thanks for all you do!
SrA Benjamin Janelle

December 5, 2006
ALL,
I would just like to say thank you for the wonderful boxes. I shared them with my coworkers here and we all got a kick out of it. It is very fun to get a box and have people choose the best of what they like and trade between us almost like it is a game. I think it is quite nice that I actually got one CD I had wanted for a while but never got around to buying. Also with the cold days happening it is wonderful to make some nice hot chocolate.
Anyway please send my thanks to the Boy Scouts and I would like to thank you as well for having an outlet for them to do the project that they did. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and we here in Iraq enjoy the good work you do.
Very Respectfully,
Benjamin Reinstein, Airman First Class, USAF

November 30, 2006
The 14 Soldiers on our team really enjoyed the 3 care packages that arrived yesterday. Not sure if some one can give us a mailing address for the Boy Scout Troop 815, but we'd like to mail them a thank you for their involvement.
We just want you and Boy Scout Troop 815 know we really appreciate the care packages and your support. It means a lot during this holiday season.
1LT David Kartchner

November 30, 2006
Just wanted to let you know i received three boxes form Blue Star Moms and they were greatly appreciated. We have some newly arrived Army units on base, I took two of the boxes to them and they were extremy grateful also. The boxes were packed by Boy Scout troops in the San Francisco Bay area. For an Eagle Scout project. There was no address of how to contact them.
Thank you again
Henry Ellis

July 25,2006
Hello,
My name Sgt Tsui and I had a package sent out to me early this month but there wasn't a address to write a thank you note to. I do want to thank all of you that donate and prepare the packages that are sent to all of us that are deployed. They are a great moral booster to us all, this is my second back to back deployment and l love how you always send it during the middle of the deployment cycle. I just wanted to say thank you to you all, even though some of us don't write back they still do appriciate all that you do.
Sgt Tsui

July 9,2006
To the Blue Star Moms:
My name is Captain Luke Esposito and I am a Harrier pilot writing on behalf of the Marines of the VMA-214 Blacksheep currently deployed in the Persian Gulf as part of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Receiving the several large and generous care packages from your organization last week, has lifted the spirits of all of the Marines in the unit and we would like to send our sincerest thanks and appreciation for your thought and efforts. We have been underway for almost 5 months now and are eagerly awaiting our turn to sail for the San Diego harbor, our home, and our families and loved ones. This part of the deployment is typically the toughest, as the end is near but time seems to slow down just enough to keep that long-awaited day from arriving. Your generosity has helped to make the last several weeks of our journey a little more bearable.
The few Marines that were feeling under the weather appreciate greatly the Cup Of Noodles that they received. Our Intel clerk, Lance Corporal Shane Larkin, appreciates the new supply of Pete's Coffee as the coffee shop he runs out of his office was running low on supplies. Sergeant Ryan Estre appreciates the energy bars that were sent, as his supply of Òpower foodÓ that he normally eats before going to the gym was running low. Without going into any more specifics, it was just nice to know that people back home care about what we're doing out here.
Thank you again for your generosity, your hard work, and your devotion to your country and the people who are working to protect it.
Semper Fi,
Captain Luke T. Esposito
U.S. Marine Corps

July 6,2006
BSM's
I wanted to send you a short note to say thank you for the care packages. They were divided up amongst our shop and the contents were enjoyed. There are times that are hard over here but getting the packages you sent helps relieve some of the stress that we have. Thank you for all the work you do in support of the service men and women. I will see you all when I get home.
Thanks so much,
HM3 John Harper

July 4,2006
Hello, my name is Christopher Anderson and I am a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. Through my Captain, Luke Esposito, we were sent a care package from you via his family and your sponsorship. On behalf of the 86 members of my squadron attached to the 31st MEU on deployment, thank you! We are greatly encouraged by your support and thoroughly strengthened in our pursuit of performing the assignments tasked to us with a new and fresh attitude. If people like you did not support us and show your heart through the mail. We are blessed more than you realize and blessed as you have hoped we would went you sent these packages off. Thank you for your support and I hope that this letter helps to encourage you as your care packages have encouraged us.
"Even youth grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord, He will renew their strength." Isaiah 40:30, 31
- Love Chris

June 29,2006
I received your care packages a few days ago. Thank you very much. I took what I needed and put the rest in the chow hall, where everyone can share. The Marine Corps doesn't allow ankle socks, but everything else was great. I responded to all the letters with addresses. If the letter had a name and school, I addressed it to you and maybe you can get it to them. Don't forget that it's about 125 degrees out here lately. Marines like protein powder and magazines (Maxim, Stuff, FHM are favored). The protein often comes in large plastic containers, but it can be separated into large zip-lock bags for easier mailing. Mach 3 razor blades are good too.
I am in Fallujah. Try to send something to units in Ramadi. I can't explain why, but they would appreciate it.
How did you find me? I am from 2/23 in San Bruno, but they are not deploying soon so I went all the way to the east coast to deploy with 1/25. Anyway, thanks again.
-Corporal Damian Musante

June 25,2006
Hello from Iraq,
we have just received several boxes from the All-Star Blue Star Moms. Thank you so much for everything. The packages were amazing. definitely made it feel like Christmas out here. everyone enjoyed all the goodies in the boxes. How did you guys fit so much stuff in these boxes? We are proud to have supporters like you in the States. Thank you for all that you do to help us out here. Have a great day.
Lt Deryck Pham

June 24, 2006
Blue Star Moms,
I was somewhat shocked the other day to receive not one but, two boxes in the mail from your organization. I can't begin to express to you how much it means to me and the other men and women I serve with to have the support of the folks back home. I think it is wonderful what your organization is doing for all of us over here. I would personally like to say thank you to each and every individual that had a hand it packing my boxes. Not only from me but also everyone I shared the contents with.
Also, please pass on my and my colleagues sincere thanks and appreciation of Girl Scout Troop 1414. Their cards, words of praise and thanks certainly brightened the day for a lot of people.
Once again, thank all of you for everything you are doing back home to support us downrange.
v/r
SSgt Wayne A. Bukaty

June 23, 2006
The Scorpions of HSL-49 Detachment 2 deployed aboard USS Curts FFG-38 have just recieved 4 care packages while in port Panama. All of us are quite pleased to have these little bits of home. Especially enjoyed were the letters included from students at Iron Horse Middle School. We now have them taped on the wall in our space onboard ship. We are deployed out of San Diego, and it's great to hear from the folks and kids back home.
Once again, thank you for lifting our spirits, and we'll be home in about 4 months.
Respectfully,
AT1(AW) Brent Williams

June 23,2006
Dear Blue Star Moms
Thank You. Thank you for caring. Thank you for all the wonderful things. I shared all the goodies with everybody. The best thing is the toy fishing pole with the magnetic fish and the Bear Hat. I had some pictures taken of me with the fishing pole and the bear hat. I sent them home. My son, who has the same toy, got very excited to see my playing (just like him). Blue Star Moms have brought great joy to me and my son and I can not thank all of you enough. I did not have any return address on my wonderful notes.
Please pass this on to all
Genevieve (Student at SRV)
Jenna
Chelsea Spender
Emily Zanhner (drawings of fireworks and Flag for the 4th July)
Lindsey Vencill (also had fireworks and stars for 4th July)
Dianee S
Grateful American
Mollie Anderson (thanks for the words and I like the sticker from Memo)
Otter Krause
Stephen Roze
Thank You
MICHAEL B. GLASS

June 22, 2006
Dear Blue Star Mom's,
I wanted to take this opportunity to send you a heart felt THANK YOU for everything that you have done for us here in Afghanistan. We really appreciate your packages and support!! I have taken the packages and shared them with our First Sergeant to hand out to the troops in the field I also shared the rest amongst my friends. I don't get a lot of mail and it was nice GREAT to receive something from someone who care about what we are doing over here. Everything arrived intact and in good condition. It feels so great to know that we are supported back home for what we are doing and that make life here that much easier to deal with the conditions here not like back home. But I know everyone who receives the packages are very thankful, and I want to thank you on behalf of the 455th Wing Safety Office for sending such great packages everything was greatly needed an appreciated. Thank you again.
TSgt Theresa A. Lex

June 22, 2006

Hello:
I am LTC Robert Benjamin. I am stationed in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division. I recently began receiving carepackages from your organization. I want to say thank you very much for your care and support. I distributed the boxes to our soldiers and they were very excited to get them.
I know there is a lot of time, money, and effort that goes into putting on a program like yours. Thanks for your dedication.
Your Friend,
Bob Benjamin

June 21, 2006
A squad within my platoon was kind enough to share the care package they received in the mail today. Thank you so much. Serving in Guantanomo Bay, guilt sometimes sets in knowing that my brothers and sisters in arms are contstantly in harms way and are in much more need of support from home that myself. However, time away from family and friends is no less difficult here. Knowing that people come together to provide such a surprise of gifts is awesome. I can hear and feel the excitement of your groups efforts on the days these items are collected and sent. As an eighth grade science teacher, the notes/cards from students is a classy touch. My school participates in sending veterans "thank you" cards on Veteran's Day each year. I have seen and felt the satisfaction that exudes from both the students and veterans. The service you provide is just as important as ours!
Thanks again,
SPC Doug Haberlein

June 20, 2006
Blue Star Moms,
I would like to send my deep appreciation for the care packages you sent to the USS Ronald Regan. It is caring people like you that make being deployed away from home worth while and meaningful. Thank you for you support and my God continue to bless you.
Very Respectfully,
ABE1(AW) L. Anthony Haley II

June 20, 2006
hi! my name is AN Helton off of the U.S.S. Ronald reagan. I just wanted to take the time to thank you guys for the awesome care packages you sent. The boys and I have been eating real good from it! and having alot of fun with the little nerf basket ball and hoop you sent. well i dont want to take up to much of your time but i sure do appreciate it! lots of love ~ Helton

June 20,2006
On behalf of the ladies of Dorm 500 in, Iraq I want to thank you all for the care packages. We have received 4 so far. Everyone was so excited about receiving them. We really appreciate your hard work and dedication to supporting the deployed members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It's the little things from home that people really miss. A few items the ladies loved were the note cards, little stuffed animals and socks. Cards and stationary are in high demand over here, no little stuffed animals and socks/underwear are always lost in the laundry. Please continue supporting the troops because it does make a difference.
Amy K. Drake, TSgt, USAF

June 20, 2006
Dear Moms,
Thanks very much for sending the care packages which I've received over the past couple of days here at FOB Warrior in , Iraq. The snacks and hygeine products are greatly appreciated and it gives us all a good feeling over here to know that you're thinking of us. On behalf of all the Soldiers in "Balls of the Eagle" Thank you and God Bless. See you all in the States soon,
Ryan

June 20, 2006
Ladies,
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you, for your untiring support of our Nation and Military. I received two boxes today from the ÒBlue StarÓ Moms; I appreciate all of you taking the time to put together these boxes and especially mailing them to Soldiers here in Iraq. I promise to disseminate these items with my Soldiers today, and I'm sure they'll appreciate these items just as much as I have.
Again many thanks and we appreciate your support.
Jeff
CSM JEFFREY M. YELKOVICH
204TH SUPPORT BATTALION

June 20, 2006
Wow and thank you . I really appreciate your package and support!! I am stationed with the 101st Airborne Division iin Balad, Iraq. I really appreciated your package and I shared amongst my frineds. I dont get much mail and it was nice ot recieve something, Everything was in good conditon and was liked by all.
To know that we have the support back home makes life out that much easier. I know that everyone who got packages is very thankful and on behalf of the B Co 4-101 I thank you for sending such a great package.
Thank you,
Marc Kunes

June 20, 2006
Hi, I am a Leading Petty Officer, with Avionics/Armaments Division, onboard USS RONALD REAGAN. Today two of my people received some of your carepackages, and I wanted to write to say thanks, it was nice to see their faces light up, and the way the work center looked like a living room, on christmas morning. Please pass the word to everyone involved that this is a wonderful thing that you are doing, and believe me, it is very appreciated by the service men and women that benefit from your good will.
I hate ever asking for anything, so I never sent a request for a package, but after seeing some of the articles that my people received, and the way they looked at them, I understand that you must get just as much from this, as they do, at least I hope you do.
Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks, and also ask that if you have any, I would like to request a bag of David Sunflower seeds. They are virtually impossible to keep around here, and I have been out for a while. LOL The guys all say I am addicted to them, like they are a drug or something!
Thanks again, for all you do!
Very Respectfully,
AT1(AW/SW) Poe

June 20, 2006
The carepackages were received and they were appreciated greatly and I enjoyed them. Thanks for what you guys do its makes it better to not only know that we are fighting for our country but we also are appreciated by people back at home. Please continue to be noble citizens and we will continue to fight for our people thanks again we love you.
Albert, Roland AN

June 20, 2006
Hello,
I am a deployed Airman, and my guys just received one of your care packages. I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the effort that your organization goes through to send things to us while we are away from our homes and families. I believe we are over here for a greater cause, and knowing that there are people who appreciate what we are doing for our country. I am over here because I want my children to enjoy the freedoms that I have, and hopefully help other people around this world enjoy greater freedom also. Your care packages are tremendous for our morale, it is like Christmas when we get one. All of the guys gather around and the divide out the items. Again, thanks for being a great American and supporting our troops.
Sincerely,
John
SMSgt John E. Davis

June 19, 2006
Dear bluestarmoms,
Thank you for sending the carepackages to our shipmate ABE3 Craven, they were greatly appreciated. Its nice to know that there are people back at home and all of the states supporting us and having people like you all that don't really know us but are willing to step forth and send us packages to help our time out here easier to go by. Thanks again and have a good day.
Sincerely,
AN Ryan Newman

June 19, 2006
Blue Star Moms!
I wanted to let you know that your packages arrived in Afghanistan and I wanted to pass along a huge THANK YOU!!!!
Please pass on to all the volunteers and supporters that there generous donations and goodies are very much appreciated and will be shared amongst all the Soldiers here. I'd especially like to thank the kids for their cards and letters. It warms our hearts that they take the time to write us and share their feelings about what we are doing here. Your generosity, thoughts and prayers are a tremendous boost of morale for us and knowing that folks back home back our efforts, is indescribable.
On behalf of the Soldiers of the 10th Soldier Support Battalion, we pass on our sincerest thanks and hope you will continue to keep us in your thoughts. We will be here for many more months, so any other packages sure would be welcome!
V/R
Steve Libert
Command Sergeant Major
10th Soldier Support Battalion

June 19, 2006
(This letter was edited to remove possibe sensitive information.)
MSGT Victor Brewer
Eng Comp
19 JUNE 2006
Dear Blue Star Moms,
We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the care packages we received with all the goodies. I really appreciate the fact that people we don't even know went out of their way and took the time and effort to think of sending a package to us. I gave all the packages to my troops and let them go crazy but the first thing they went for was the sweet stuff.
My name is Victor and I hail from Missouri where my family awaits my return. I have numerous Marines under my Command here in Iraq and continue the fight everyday for our Country.
I want you to understand how important your care packages to the Marines are. We live on what we call M&Ms over here. Mail to mail is what this stands for and I can assure you that all we need is a piece of mail like your care packages to raise our spirits and keep us going. The priceless looks on the faces of young Marines when they get a piece of mail is something that most Americans will never see not to mention sometimes the thanks that they have for what they received.
We have been here in the fight for a few months now and we have a few months to go. We haven't lost anyone but we have sustained several injuries due to bombs and rocket attacks. I pray everyday that I can bring all my Marines out of this alive to get them back to their families and friends and the second prayer is that God will get me home to mine. For all the difficulties we face and the challenges ahead I can assure you that all the packages you have sent is a contributing factor to the determination, success and Morale of these Marines and will not be forgotten. It will be one of those things that they will look back on and talk about.
Again I Thank all of you Blue Star Moms for the care packages and I have wrote about them in my War journal as another testament that True Americans do exist and support the effort of me and my fellow Marines. To you and all the contributers, I say Thank you and may God bless your everyday.
Semper Fidelis from the Marines of Engineer Company
VICTOR L. BREWER
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

June 19, 2006
I am Petty Officer 2nd Class Medina, J. of USS RONALD REAGAN CVN76, one of my 3rd classes has kindly shared us with him his care packages that he received from this organization, and he has asked us to not thank him, but to thank you guys for your great support to us. It is greatly appreciated that you have provided us not with packages of food and snacks, but with care and thoughts of good will. I want to personally let you guys know that it‰Ûªs because of you all do for us, makes our time out here a lot more convenient as well as give us a taste of home, Thank you very much! Take care and God Bless.

June 19, 2006
OUTSTANDING, THANK U FOR THE PACKAGES THEY ARE A GREAT COMFORT FROM HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT'S A LITTLE HARD TO GET MINI OREOS OUT. HERE THEY ARE LIKE GOLD !!!HAHAHAH U GUYS KEEP ME AND FELLOW MEN AND WOMEN GOING EVERY DAY WITH YOUR SUPPORT, AS PEOPLE AND AS MOMS MUCH LOVE TO YA, MOMS I'LL BE HOME SOON LOVE UUUUUUUUU! BLUES STAR MOMS THANK U SO MUCH U KEEP US GOING STRONG!!!!!!!!!!!

June 19,2006 Dear Blue Star Moms,
Thank you very much for your support. I have received your care packages. My fellow marines also would like to say thank you all as well. We are about half way through our deployment. Thank you again. Have a nice day!
LCPL JONES K.L

June 19, 2006
Got the box and I really enjoyed it...Thanks alot...you Ladies are the greatest....keep up the Morale Boosters....Have a great day...Art

June 19, 2006
Hello,
I wanted to take a minute and write you a thank you for the care packages that you have sent. We here at 1st Radio Battalion Appreciate them so much. Its so nice to realize that we are cared about by more then just our families and relatives. Thank you So much for all your support and help.
Sincerely,
Cpl Mark R L
Iraq

June 19, 2006
Hello Blue Star Moms. To whom shall read this letter, many thanks. We here at the LOGCOM FIS have just recently received a package sent to us on behalf of Blue Star Moms. The joy and smile that was brought on by the onset of receiving things from total strangers always brings a shock and amaze the Marines and Civilians with whom we work with. It is truly a blessing to be in the thoughts, minds and prayers of such wonderful individuals such as yourselves. From us here at LOGCOM FIS, to all of you and yours we extend a heartfelt thank you and God Bless!!!
JOE H. L.

June 18, 2006
Hello,
Got the package.Thank you so much..I really appreciated everything. Have a great day and keep up this MORAL Boost .TS T

June 18, 2006
Blue Star Moms,
My Marines and Sailors received three care packages (the variety was fantastic) from you this afternoon. We truly appreciate your generosity, it means a great deal to us when family and friends keep us in mind.
Please thank everyone in your group; we couldn't accomplish our mission without support from the 'home front.'
Semper Fidelis,
JHH

March 28, 2006
I received a care package from your organization today and I would like to start with saying thank you all. I really wish that some of the kids who sent letters to me/us out here would have sent an address so that I could send them something back from the ship and personal tell them thanks. There is nothing that makes your day more then getting something from home. The letters that came to me even came from Aurora, CO which happens to be where I was born so that means a lot to me to see. I love how everyone is so supportive towards what were out here to do. Everything that came in the package will be put to good use and you must have read my mind. Everything in there is something to bring a smile to our faces. Yet again thank you and god bless you all.
AT3 Soto, Jonathan
USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)

March 26, 2006
Hey Blue Star Moms!
I am an Airman stationed at Ali AB, Iraq and I just had some of the chocolate toffees that you sent in a care package to us here at Ali! I just wanted to thank you for the thoughts and prayers and treats! Things are going well here in Iraq, progress is being made!
Thanks again for the support!
A1C Ian Grigsby

March 23, 2006 ...is greatly appreciated. I was blessed today to find a box of "goodies" you wonderful people collected, bought, packaged, and shipped. Please believe me when I tell you that your acts of kindness do not go unappreciated. I saw your package on a table in one of the rooms where coffee is provided for us. I enjoyed a "power bar" but MOST importantly, a new pair of socks!! My wife laughs at me because I told her that if I ever won the lottery, I would be like Johnny Carson and never wear the same pair of socks twice. When you go through what we go through here, the smallest things make so much of a difference.
The weather has been quite pleasant here as far as temperature goes, but the prevailing winds kick up a lot of dust.
Thank you again so very much for all you do.
We all appreciate you.
SSgt Bob Yocom
Tennessee Air National Guard

March 23, 2006
Thank you a million times over for your support. Only 1 or 2 people here when I put the box out, but in a few hours it will be gone. Please see attached photo.
Thanks again for your support!!!
TSgt Cheryl Evans and the entire recreation center staff!!!

March 23, 2006
I just had some cookies and some other stuff, it was great.
Thanks,
A1C Kenneth Bavilla

March 7, 2006
Dear Blue Star Moms,
Thank you so much for taking the time to send us a care package here at Taji Military Training Base, Iraq. We really enjoyed all of the goodies that yÕall put in that package for us and we even were able to share with some or our other troops that were passing through. I know it meant a lot to them as it did us, knowing that the people of the United States are behind us during this difficult time away.
Thank you again for taking time out of your busy day to remember those that are serving in a far away land. I also have attached a picture of our troops for your organization. Thanks again.
Sincerely,
Jason L. Stahl
SSG, USA

March 2, 2006
Thank you very much for your package. I got it about 3 weeks ago, but have been very busy here in Kuwait. I do apologize for the delay in thanking you. The goodies inside were very much appreciated, and whatever I didn't need or use myself, I passed on to my soldiers in my unit. Thank you very much for supporting us while we are away from our families and civilization. I currently reside in a tent and live in the desert, so there isn't a whole lot out here.
Thanks again :)
SGT Robert Taylor
383rd MCT

February 22, 2006
To Whom It May Concern:
My name is Lisa and I have received several of your packages. I just wanted to drop a quick note to let you know how much we truly appreciate all the hard work you have put into all the packages you have sent us. I share all the packages I get and all the girls get very excited when your packages come in. There aren't that many of us here therefore there aren't that many "girly items" in the exchange. Your packages always gave us that lift in spirit that we need to keep us going. I am actually leaving my camp in a few days to travel to another one on my long journey home. I have been away from home for 13 months already and it's time to go home. I have two small children that are waiting for me. I have a six year old little girl and my son just turned two. Like I said before, it's time to go home. Thanks again for all the support you have given us. You really made a difference.
Sincerely,
Lisa

February 20, 2006
Wow, you sent those care packages so fast! Thank you so much for sending boxes of love to our unit. The snacks went faster than I thought (as our supply was running low :) My unit sends their thanks and appreciation! The movies and CDs are great as well! Please thank whomever else helped you with the packages. Most importantly, I thank you for the Boggle game!!!! Almost the best present yet :)
Thanks again!
Sincerely,
Joy

February 20, 2006
Hello, Blue Star Moms!
I received the valentines boxes and have been busy sending postcards to all that put a return address on their cards. I was very encouraged by the notes from the kids, and their effort, taking even a few minutes to brighten my and many other's day here. The goodies were first rate and very popular with the guys and gals I work with. Thanks for all you do to send support and thoughts of home to all of us out here, not just in Iraq, but all over the world. Danville and all the communities at the end of BART and beyond hold fond memories for me. I was stationed at Camp Parks in Dublin from 1996 to 2000. Keep up the great work!
With fond regard,
LTC Jim Gibson
Camp Taji, Iraq

February 19, 2006
I am just dropping a short note to let you know that I received your valentineÕs care packages. I shared the candy with all of the guys in my division. For the people that gave me addressÕ to write back to I will get to it sometime this week. Once again thank you so much for the treats and cards. It is nice to know people are still thinking about us.
Eric Bertram

February 18, 2006
My son called from Fallujah and said that he had received his Blue Star packages and was thrilled. He shared them with many of his fellow Marines. Said the snacks were wonderful, and that they have such a great supply of socks that they will wear them a few times and throw them away when they are out on their ten day patrols. He is due home in March. THANK you so much Moms for all the hard work and support of all our wonderful military sons and daughters!
Sincerely,
Jill Hughes

February 16, 2006
Blue Star Moms:
We finally received the care package. Thank you so much for doing that and still thinking of the sailors on the sub. They really appreciated the warm thoughts and the banner was wonderful. The items in the box made everyone smile. Thanks again for your support.
Marcell

February 6, 2006
I just wanted to let you know that I received 2 boxes of goodies today. Wow, thank you for the great variety of snacks you sent! It was so nice to get something from home. I have been fortunate to get several organizations to send goodies to me and my battalion which we set up in a big room for all the Soldiers to take items they might need or to combat a munchie attack. The majority of my Soldiers are 19-25 years old, and like most youngsters that age can eat 3 meals a day and still snack all day. Literally being the Old Man in the unit (47), most of them are like my kids. We are a Finance Battalion and pay all the contracts which can be in excess of 200 million a month, most of which are paid in cash. I have 3 sister battalions that handle other sectors. It is quite an intense mission. That is on top of our normal Soldier pay functions that we do to support the 4th Infantry Division (We captured Saddam) the last time we were here. We will be here for another 9 months. Attached are a few pictures of me and my Soldiers. It is my pleasure serving and protecting the greatest nation in the world and our way of life!
We are fortunate to be Americans no matter what problems we face, they are insignificant in comparison to the 40 others countries I have been to. I would not trade my citizenship for anything!!!! Thank you for thinking about our Nation's Soldiers and God Bless you also. I am the guy on the right, my left, if I am looking at you in PIC 40. This is where Saddam used to have his parades in Baghdad. There is another set of crossed swords over us that are not shown in this picture.
LTC Leo Hay

February 8, 2006
Ladies,
How are you? I just received a wonderful package in the mail from you today. Thank you so much for your generosity. We all really appreciate everything you do for our service members deployed all over the globe. I, myself, am deployed to Djibouti, Africa in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Below is a public link to our web site. This site truly shows all of the good things going on in the Horn of Africa. Please take a few minutes to surf.
Thanks again.
www.hoa.centcom.mil/index.asp
CPT George H. Imorde III

February 10, 2006
Hi,
I thought I'd take the time to tell you how wonderful you all are for sending such wonderful support our way. We got a box filled with great stuff today for Valentine's day. It made our days, I'll tell you that much. Mail day is the best day of the week, for sure. People like you make it worth our while being over here. It's hard being away from my family, but I know the mission over here is a good mission, a good reason. Iraqi people deserve a free government, too. And the world will be safer. I know that. So that is why being over here isn't that bad. Knowing we're doing the right thing helps us get through each day. The hardest thing is knowing about people back home who don't believe in this cause. They say they support us for who we are and what we do, but it still hurts because they think we're over here for the wrong reason. The point I like to make is, they have the freedom to think that, say that, feel that. That is the same freedom we are trying to give other people. Is that so hard to understand? Who knows. Anyway, enough about war. You all have hearts of gold. The soldiers love your support and warm messages. If they don't write you all back, it's because they are so busy.
Thank you all so much.
Love,
A soldier.

January 4, 2006
To Blue Star Moms,
My name is Charlie Ross and I am on active duty in the US Navy. I want to say thank you so much for your kindness. ItÕs great to know that there are people back home who appreciate our service and try to make our job a little easier. In particular, I want to say thank you for the packages received around the holidays. For many Sailors, this is their first time away from family and friends around the holidays and your thoughtfulness certainly helped to brighten their spirits.
Thank you for your support,
BMC Charlie Ross
Chief Petty Officer
U.S. Navy

December 16, 2005
Hello Blue Star Moms
On behalf of MSCO Kuwait I want to thank you all for the wonderful care package that you have sent us. It will be perfect for the holidays. We at MSCO Kuwait want you all to know that your support is why we have the courage and determination to protect our nation. Let me tell you a little about our unit. Our function is to bring the ships into port that are carrying all the crucial cargo for the boys and girls in Iraq. We are in the rear with the gear, but our job is to get the equipment to them and get another ship into port. We are like a commercial transport company that uses ships for transportation. I believe we do live in the greatest place on the planet. Let me say again thank you very much. I have attached a group photo of the unit for you. Well I hope you had a nice Christmas. Take care.
Again thank you all,
Senior Chief Ron Harmon

December 15, 2005
Dear Blue Star Moms,
As we are closing our tour of duty, I received three care packages today from your support group. Each of the treats is a welcome surprise to all and greatly appreciated! Just as in the letters and cards that were enclosed with the packages, there is no way to express our thank you to Blue Star Moms for supporting us.
Thank you, God Bless you and Happy Holidays! Semper Fi .
GySgt Bryan S. Brown

December 17, 2005
My Son LcpL Kirby Hughes is stationed in Iraq. He received several boxes from the Blue Star Moms and was so thrilled. He opened them and shared them with the 10 guys there. He was very impressed with the CD sent with the patriotic music! He, like many of these young guys, really loves music. He said "I really loved the moto music the Blue Star Mom's sent!" He said the boxes were great and full of fun and good stuff.
THANKS again for the efforts and love sent by all the Mom's!!!!!
[undisclosed sender]

December 10, 2005
Hello,
To all of you wonderful moms. My name is Pauline. I am a female military police soldier in the army. My platoon, we have been together with each other for almost a year and a half. When you spend 24 hours a day with people, they become your family. And that is what my platoon is, a family. Of course there are some fights and arguments, just like in a family, but we always know that the other will be there for them always. Well i just wanted to write to you and to say thank you so much for all you have done. Our morale was greatly lifted with all of the wonderful christmas things you sent along with the candy and toys. Thank you so much again. My heart goes out to you all. And may all your children that are soldiers be safe. Like i said, we all watch out for one another.
Pauline Lockhart

December 2, 2005
Dear Moms,
I donÕt know where to begin. It seems like just yesterday I showed up to help you fine ladies out. Honestly, I would have never guessed that a year later I would be on the other side of the field. When I was helping out at the collection point in Danville, I remember the warm reception I received and the overwhelming support from the community. I had a blast! But at that point I had no idea what it felt like to be on the receiving end of these packages. I have been in Iraq for close to 4 months now. It has been an experience. I have kept a positive attitude and taken each day as it comes. I never realized how many little convinces in life I took for granted. I am quite humbled. I wish there was some way I could show you the smile on everyoneÕs face as we opened up those care packages. It was awesome. The most heart warming items in these packages were the letters from the children and families in the States. I almost tear up reading a letter from little Mikey from Danville Middle School who says that I am a hero and he supports all we do (he also adds he just won the school tennis tournament and Òhe gotÕem with the back spinÓ). I give my word that every letter we received will get a response. I just wanted to take a little time out of my day to thank you wonderful momÕs for all that you have done. Your contributions and support has made a difference. Keep up the good work! I look forward to working with you again.
Sincerely,
Christopher R Piha A1C

December 3, 2005
I truly appreciate the care packages you sent me. They brought a smile to all the Marines IÕm stationed with over here. I let them all sort through and take whatever they wanted. You are Great Americans!!!! Thank you for all your support, we all appreciate it!!!!
Semper fi
GySgt Snell

December 3, 2005
To All the Fabulous people back home,
I send you my deepest gratitude from all of us here at the Fire Station. We received your package today and it was a great surprise! Everyone would like to say a big thank you and that you all have a safe and happy holiday. It is great to see all the support that comes from home.
Thanks again.
Daniel J. Cline, MSgt, USAF

December 13, 2005
Hello,
My name is SrA Donald R Mitchell with the US Air Force. I am currently stationed in Iraq. I wanted to thank you for the wonderful package that IÕve received. I hope that this message gets to the Danville, California group. According to the letter in the package they are the group who made the package that I received.
Thank you,
SRA DONALD R MITCHELL

December 4, 2005
I want to pass on my appreciation for your care packages. We are probably in the hottest area in Iraq now. We have a couple isolated camps that don't have porta-johns, showers, dining facilities or PX. I sent your care packages to these isolated areas. They need the items more than me. Please pass on my thanks to all the ladies/moms in your organization. Your work is sincerely appreciated.
Sincerely,
SFC J. Rob Roane

December 4, 2005
Hi,
We received the packages from the Blue Star Moms yesterday. There were so many, my company called me up at work and told me to put them in my room because they took up too much space. The first thing I did was open all the packages and took out the letters. I intend to write everyone back. Please give me a few weeks, if not months, to write everyone back.
Obviously I canÕt eat all that food. We have shelves at our company that people put miscellaneous items on; snacks, books, toothpaste etc. IÕve only gone through half the packages and filled up almost half the shelves. I know my buddies will enjoy every bit of it. They are deeply appreciative as well as myself.
Know that morale is good here and that we are not suffering. Please donÕt get me wrong, thereÕs danger everywhere. However, we stay vigilant and motivated.
Love ÐBrad Ensign

December 7, 2005
Hi,
I just thought I would say thank you for the boxes you have given me. All the boxes have PO Box 2537, San Ramon CA 94583 on them. And they say blue star moms. The things inside were most appreciated. Everything in the box I had passed around in my unit. I will be emailing more often.
Thank you,
Vanessa Losongco

December 7, 2005
Hi,
My son, David was thrilled to receive several Blue Star Moms packages last week. He kept some and shared others with the men in his company. He asked me to thank the Blue Star Moms for all their hard work. He was very impressed with the effort and creativity that went into each box. He said the men had a lot of fun opening the boxes. He thought it was very cute how one soldier got a small Christmas tree, another got some ornaments and another got lights. He said the boxes lifted their morale and they appreciated everything they received.
Thanks so much for making my son so happy.
[undisclosed sender]

December 7, 2005
Hi All,
My son, Chaplain Scott Crosley, e-mailed me that they have received the Blue Star Moms care packages and that they are the best ones they've seen! He wrote to me, "We received six Blue Star Moms packages this week and they rock! They are seriously the best care packages that any group has sent us so far. They really put good things in there: snacks, socks, toiletries, fun stuff. We sent a thank you note to the San Ramon address, but please also pass along our Rakkasan thanks from Bayji"
[undisclosed sender]

December 7, 2005
Hi,
My son called today to say thanks to all of you for all the stuff. All the guys thought it was great! Most appreciated was the coffee, the hot chocolate, the popcorn and the Pringles. A few boxes came each day, so he was almost afraid to go out of the tent!
Thanks BSMs!

December 7, 2005
Dear Blue Star Moms,
My name is Captain Jerry Franklin and I'm currently deployed to Baghdad Iraq in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. I just wanted to send you a sincere thank you for the packages that were sent from your organization to our unit. From the moment we opened the first package, it was obvious there was much time, thought, consideration, support and love packed into each box. Especially heartwarming were the letters you included from children and adults alike expressing their support for our service here in Iraq. Rest assured your message of support has been received by many and has certainly inspired a positive influence on our unit's morale. Again, please pass on our sincerest appreciation to everyone involved with you and your organization and to the great citizens of the United States of America supporting our Armed Services.
Happy Holidays,
Capt Jerry Franklin

December 2, 2005
I want to thank everyone involved with sending me a care package. I really appreciate the things I got. It feels good to know that you guys care about us over here. You guys really have a great organization. Please keep it up. Thanks once again, and God Bless you all!
Marcus Jones

December 2, 2005
Hi,
Thanks for the 3 packages. They were great and the team thanks you greatly! I will be sending out letters today or tomorrow.
Thanks Again,
Tony

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