December 5, 2011

Our Care Packages got here safely. Let's just say we loved them. The Little Christmas tree is set up in our office. Thank you for what you do for us!

PFC Stephanie Olson, (Pasco, WA)
--------------------------
October 7, 2011

Aloha WA OTY!

It was so great to hear from you all again!  Thank you so much for the package of goodies that you sent my soldiers and I.  We really appreciate all of your support!

Things here in Afghanistan are going well.  We’re all staying busy which is helping time by  fast!

Thanks again for all your support!
Aloha

JB Jaso
-----------------------------
October 2011

On behalf of the service members and their families who stay at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Fisher House, we want to thank you for your generous donations.

Supporters like you enable us to make this possible and keeps the JBLM Fisher House a home away from home for loved ones of ill and injured service members and their families.  Our house could not be the loving and supportive environment it is without great community members, such as you.

Thank you again for your amazing support.

Sincerely,

The JBLM Fisher House Staff

(OTY donates throughout the year in memory of Washington State Fallen)
**********************
September 23, 2011

Dear Operation Thank You:

On behalf of the Walla Walla  VA Medical Center patients and staff, we would like to extend our appreciation to you for your large donation of clothing.  Your thoughtfulness reflects the concern that you feel for our veterans and for the service they provided to all of us while in service to our country.

Without your support, we could not provide for the smaller niceties that make hospitalization more bearable.  Your thoughtfulness also reflects the concern and compassion that our community feels for our veterans. 

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Larry Werst
Chief, Voluntary Service
-----------------------------

September 4, 2011

Thank you for all of the care packages you have been sending – not only to myself but to other service members as well.  They are greatly appreciated out here, and we are happy to know people are thinking of us back home.

My Mother tells me about the hard work you put into the care packages – I want you to know that while we are awfully busy day-today-, it’s great to be able to take a break and thank you for your support!!

Sincerely,

Brett L. Wessley
LTSG, USN
------------------------------
August 15, 2011

Howzit?  Thank you so much for the packages that you sent my soldiers and I!  It was so great to hear from you!

Things here in Afghanistan are going well!  It’s not too bad for us, but we remain busy trying to ensure the safety of our fellow soldiers!

Thank you so much for the support and hope to hear from you again soon!

With Aloha!

JB Jaso
-------------------
August 14, 2011

On behalf of the Wounded Warriors at Kandahar Airfield (KAF), I thank you for your generous donations of snacks, socks, candy, and cards.

Please know that all of these items have been given to the Wounded Warrior Program here at KAF.  I am certain the soldiers will put your donations to good use.

Thanks again for your support!

Most sincerely,

Laura
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August 3, 2011


On behalf of Tomoka Christian Church, I want to thank you for your gift in memory of Clifford Beattie.  The gift will be designated to the Bringing Children Home ministry of Tomoka Christian Church, while helps couples with adoptions.

In Jesus,
Joe Putt
(Donation made in memory of Clifford Beattie, Medical Lake)
---------------------------

Thank You for your support.  The care package is greatly appreciated.

SFC Hernandez
-----------------------------------

July 1, 2011

On behalf of the Fisher family and the rest of the Board of Trustees, Fisher House Foundation, Inc., please accept our heartfelt gratitude for your generous contribution of $50.00 in memory of Capt. Joseph Schultz, and designated for the Dover AFB Fisher House,  It is through donations such as yours that the Fisher House Foundation, Inc. is able to continue having a positive impact on the quality of life of “our greatest national treasure…our military service men and women and their loved ones.”

Your donation to Fisher House is even more meaningful as our thoughts and prayers are with America’s service men and women who are deployed throughout the world.

The many military and veterans’ families who will benefit from your thoughtfulness, join me in expressing our collective appreciation for your generosity.  Thank you!

Sincerely,

Fisher House Foundation, Inc.
David A. Coker
President
(Donation by OTY in memory of  Capt. Joseph, Schultz, Port Angeles)

----------------------

Dear Operation Thank You of Washington,

The Elliott family would like to thank you so very much for your support of Josh.  From the boxes you’ve sent to Afghanistan to your thoughts, prayers, and the gift certificate.  We feel overwhelmed and blessed!  Thank you so very much.

Den, DeLynn, Josh, and Sam Elliott
-------------------------------------
June 23, 2011

Dear Operation Thank You:

On behalf of the Walla Walla VA Medical Center patients and staff, we would like to extend our appreciation to you for your donation of under cream, shaving cream, snacks, toys, and puzzles.  Your thoughtfulness reflects the concern that you feel for our veterans for the service they provided to all of us while in service to our country.

Without your support, we could not provide for the smaller niceties that make hospitalization more bearable.  Your thoughtfulness also reflects the concern and compassion that our community feels for our veterans.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
Larry Werst
Chief, Voluntary Service
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June 23, 2011 11:51 PM

Thank you for the package it means a lot to me and my brothers and sisters out here. We don't have a lot to look forward to but when the mail comes it always lifts the moral of the ship. Their things like that, that makes our time out hear away from friends and family a little easier. So again from me and everyone out hear thank you for everything you do.

DJ Campbell
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June 18, 2011

On behalf of the Wounded Warriors at Kandahar Airfield (KAF), I thank you for your generous donations of snacks, socks, cards, candy and DVDs.

Please know that all of these items have been given to the Wounded Warrior program here at KAF.  I am certain the soldiers will put your donations to good use.

Thanks again for your support!!

Most Sincerely,
Laura Rowland
--------------
June 20, 2011

WA OTY

Thank you so much for sending the care package.  I just got it today and it has lots of stuff I can use.  I will share the rest with my Platoon.  God Bless you and the work  you do.

Thanks,

Cpt. Edmund Schumacher
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June 3, 2011

Thank you very much for the care package.  Knowing people back home care we are over here and support us makes all the difference in the world when it comes to staying in good spirits.

The guys definitely liked what you sent; the package had not been open for five minutes before it was half gone.  The soldiers here spend a lot of time on the road, so snacks are always welcome.

I hope all goes well back in the States, and that the weather has not been too bad.  Needless to say, over here it is hot.  Again, thank you for the package and best wishes from all of us over here in Iraq!

Ps:  sorry about my chicken scratch, hope you can read it!

1LT Karl Henwood

COB Speicher, Iraq
----------------------------------
May 20, 2011

Dear WA Operation Thank You,

On behalf of 3rd Platoon, C Co, TF 1-66 I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support.  I cannot even imagine what our courageous Vietnam Veterans went through as their homeland failed to support them just a few decades ago.  I can assure you our soldiers are performing God’s duty over here.  The local Afghans that I have had the privilege to meet and live with over the past year have been nothing but appreciative.  This nation has seen war for far too long and every day Coalition Forces are helping to liberate the oppressed by combating terrorism. The permanent answer for Afghanistan of course is the development of governance and nothing has been more impressive than the brave Afghans who have volunteered to serve as soldiers, policemen and hold positions of responsibility throughout all levels of the government.  Schools are becoming present in districts where educational institutions have never existed.  Our nation’s best and brightest leaders have devoted countless hours to their training and their progress speaks for itself.  In an attempt to find IEDs, weapons and those individuals who seek to inflict harm on the innocent our nation’s valiant youth have saturated the soil that makes up the Arghandab River Valley with their sweat, and unfortunately, sometimes with their blood.  Since there has been life on earth there have been those who manipulate their faith for personal gain and sinister deeds.  The Taliban manipulate uneducated young boys to believe they are carrying out “Allah’s” mission of ridding the world of the west.  They futilely attempt to inflict fear in their society to deter progress, development and modernization.  With the “Surge” a year underway and the summer offensive kicking off yet again Coalition Forces have flooded the countryside, cities, villages, mountains and roads.  Acts of terrorism do not and will not go unnoticed and punishment will be swift and just.

Over the past year my soldiers have faced a great deal of adversity.  Poor living conditions, bitter cold, and wet winters, intense summer heat, sleep deprivation, religious and financial hardships, injury, lost friends, malnourishment, relationship disputes and sickness are all expected for there is nothing easy about war.  Your boxes, cards and support were a daily reminder of what we are here for and we thank you again.  In August of 2010 I deployed with teenagers, fathers, mechanics, Christians, rock climbers, Republicans, Iraq Veterans and scholars.  I am redeploying in the company of heroes.

1LT John Moffatt
Platoon Leader
3/C Co/TF 1-66
COP Caron, Kandahar
------------------------------------

May 2011

To Washington Operation Thank you:  This is a thank you noe from my son who received one of your packages. Iwant to say thanks as well, you guys are awesome. I will be watching yourwebsite for upcoming events and plan a trip to Tri-Cities to help.
Thank you, Renea
---------------------------------------

First of let me apologize for the delayed response, but things have been pretty busy around here.  Please know that I and everyone else that’s been slowly chipping away at the care packages are extremely thankful for them.  A lot of people sometimes do not realize how receiving a care package like the ones you guys sent mean to us and how much it can lift our spirits when we are away from family and loved ones.  I've been letting as many people as I can know to come by and take advantage of all the stuff you guys sent, and the ones that have are very grateful and were shocked to see how much stuff was sent by just one group of people.  Anyways thank you and everyone who put together these packages and for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers and we endure the remainder of this time here in Afghanistan. 

With love,
Travis O. Erhardt
---------------------

April 21, 2011

I received a package today!

On behalf of all the folks here at Kandahar Airfield Us Army Corps of Engineers, thanks so much for thinking of us.  I am from the Seattle area and we have a couple of folks (I think, one guy just left) from the Walla Walla area.

The Corps of Engineers leads the way to build roads and bridges, water and power infrastructure and bases for the Afghan National Army and Police.  We volunteered to come here and are proud to serve the Afghan people this way.  While most of us are civilians, we work side by side with the US Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force.

Thanks again, what a nice Easter treat!

Douglas Jamieson, P.E.
Project Manager
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, AED-South
--------------------------------------------------
April 18, 2011

Thank you for your generous donations.  In order to serve our veterans, Inland Northwest Honor Flight relies solely on donations from individuals, groups, and private companies who recognize the great accomplishments and sacrifices our veterans made for ALL of us.  Your continuing support will help us transport many more of our war veterans from the Inland Northwest to Washington, D. C. to visit THEIR memorials.

Please share our gratitude with your whole group.  Enjoyed visiting your website!
Sincerely,

Inland Northwest Honor Flight

(Donation made in honor of three Tri-Citians, WWII veterans, who have been accepted for flights:

Leonard Livezey, was an Army clerk guarding Japanese prisoners of war in the Philippines in WWII
Harold Orpet , Navy Medic during the Philippines liberation
Harry Brown, Navy radio operator on a patrol torpedo boat near the Philippines)
-----------------------------------------

April 10, 2011

Please let Washington Operation Thank You know that my son said “Mom, I don’t know what we would have done if we didn’t have the support of the American people”.  Care packages coming to him from people he didn’t even know meant so much!

Karen
__________________________________
March 23, 11

And a happy Valentine’s Day to all of you too!  These mountains are so high, their tops are lost in clouds on rainy days.  On sunny days, the terraced wheat files are ever so green in this wet season.  All the houses are made with stone.  Goats and cows graze on the slopes and fierce dogs roam the night.  Everyone, plan carefully and be safe

Steven Ayers
101 ABN

March 23, 2011

Thank you all so much for another little taste of home, and some useful things and various notes.  Johan, I’m happy that you like school.  Keep doing well!  I like to read and go hiking and bicycling.  I also like to play piano.  Keep it up, everyone!

Steven Ayers
101 ABN
(Johan; one of children that provided notes/letters that we receive from various schools)

March 3, 2011

Thank you so much for the wonderful care package.  It is people like you who make this job worth it.  Having a little piece of home fills our day with joy.

God Bless,
Melissa Ramirez
MLG 1G-3
----------------
2/27/11
Operation Thank You

I just wanted to write and say thank you for thinking of me and my Marines during this time of hardship and sacrifice.  We all greatly appreciate your generosity and thoughtfulness.  The holiday season is typically spent with family and friends yet we found ourselves here in Afghanistan celebrating amongst Marines and Sailors.  Your mail certainly provided a morale boost in a land far away from what we are accustomed to. As our deployment near its end, I reflect back to receiving a letter and  care package and realize how much it impacted me and the rest of the guys out here.  Then again, it’s the little things that mean the most.  Once again, I wanted to personally thank you for keeping the troops in mind during this seemingly unpopular ware.

Respectfully,
Jeffrey R. Kurek
Sgt. USMC
--------------
February 25, 2011

On behalf of the families of the JBLM Fisher House, thank you very much for all of your thoughtfulness and support.  We truly appreciate your kind and sincere donation!

Thank You!
Sincerely,
The JBLM Fisher House staff

(Donations made in memory of Robert Near, Granger, WA; Sean Collins, Yelm, WA)

----------------------
January 17, 2011

Thank you so much for your donation toward our mission of providing luncheons, pantry items, and gift bags to the wounded, injured, and ill combat veterans and their families at Bethesda.  We are deeply grateful for your support!

Sincerely,
Marine Moms-Bethesda
------------------------
January 18, 2011

I would like to thank everyone that helped put together my care package.  It was greatly appreciated.  I hung up the stockings next to my bed and put pictures of my family poking out the top.  It was very festive. Thank you for the time and effort and money put into the care package.

SSgt. Dan Rey
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December 25, 2010

Dear Supporters of WA Operation Thank You,

Since I am writing this letter on Christmas, I would like to begin by wishing you and your families a very Merry Christmas.

For the past 8 months my Battalion, 1-327 IN, 1st BCT, 101st Airborne Division, has steadily received your care packages.  We are located in the remote Pech River Valley, which makes it difficult to get the small things such as magazines and candy.  On behalf of 1-327 Infantry, I would like to thank you for your continued support; both for Soldiers deployed and those at home.

Every Soldier appreciates your support and dedication.  Thank you!!

Sincerely,
CPT Jonathan Lewman
Pech River Valley, Afghanistan
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December 21, 2010

On behalf of the men and women of Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, thank you for your kindness and generosity in sending us great care packages.  They are very much appreciated.  Please keep us in your prayers.

Blessings,
Chaplain Scott Shubert, Lt., USN
Base Command Group
Al Asad, Iraq
-------------------------------------------------------------

On behalf of the families of the JBLM Fisher House, thank you very much for your thoughtfulness and support.

Sincerely,
The JBLM Fisher House Staff
(donation in memory of Jonah McClellan (U. S. Army), Battleground, WA)
--------------------------------------------------------------

The family of 1st Lt. Robert Bennedsen thanks you for your generous donation to the B bounty Club in his memory.

Thank you,
Tracy, Scott, Jamie
(Donation in memory of Robert Bennedsen, Vashon Island)
---------------------------------------------------------------

The family of Stephen L. Metzger II acknowledges with grateful appreciation your kind expression of sympathy.  Thank you so much for your thoughts and support during this difficult time.  Dealing with the loss has been overwhelming, but the care and support of our friends is helping to see us through.  Your kind gift for Brennen is greatly appreciated.

Steve and Renea Metzger
(Donation in Memory of Stephen Metzger II, USMC Veteran, Kennewick.  Brennen is his son.)
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December 16, 2010

Thank you very much for all that you and your organization have done for our troops.  Support like this helps keep our soldiers’ morale high.  We really appreciate you and just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sincerely,
PFC Kira Thomas on behalf of Cpt. Raphael Eke, Chaplain
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December 13, 2010

I wanted to thank you for the warm wishes.  I am Master Sergeant Pete McNally.  I am in Kirkuk, Iraq.

Thank you, Pete
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December 12, 2010

Thank you so much for the packages.  The Seabees from NMCB-18 really appreciate.

It is great to know we have lots of support back home.

We will be coming home in February so they will be stopping our mail in January.

Thanks again,
NMCB-18
CMC A. Washburn
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December 8, 2010

Thank you for your kind gift.  You should take pride in what you are doing for the men and women “over here”. 

We appreciate the effort you have made!!!

Steven Robinson
LtCol USMC
---------------------------------------------------------------

December 7, 2010

Merry Christmas to all of you at Operation Thank You! 

Steven Ayers
COP Michigan
101st ABN
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November 7, 2010


Dear Washington Operation Thank You,

As the Chaplain for 1st Bn, 8th Marines I would like to thank  all the members of Operation Thank You of Richland, Washington for your thoughtfulness and generosity in supporting the Marines and Sailors of 1/8.

The care packages you have sent are much appreciated by everyone in the Battalion.

May God bless you all.

Semper Fidelis,

Keith Russell
Chaplain – 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment
---------------------------------------------------

November 1, 2010

Marine Moms-Bethesda is deeply grateful for your continued support of our mission at the National Naval Medical Center.  Thank you for your very generous donation to use toward our luncheons.  October was at Mercy Hall and we had a Halloween Theme.  November was son S East and we served a Thanksgiving theme, and December will be Holiday Cheer at Bethesda with a holiday meal, stockings, cookies, and cards.  Thank you for being an “elf”

Sincerely,

Jane on behalf of Marine Moms-Bethesda
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October 31,

I just wanted to again say thank you for all of your support.  We have all thoroughly enjoyed the snacks and hygiene items that you have sent us.  Please know that your encouragement is making a daily difference in our lives.  Thank you again for everything,

Corey Arnold
FOB Bostick
______________________________________

October 13, 2010

Thank you so much for the encouraging e-mail.  It was so nice to hear from you.  I am truly blessed to have friends like you and the wonderful people of the Tri-Cities who take care of us!!

NMCB-18 Main Body
Stefan Schildt
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 12, 2010

Everything you do for us is so appreciated.  Thank you so much for all that you do
Stefan Schildt
NMCB-18 Main Body
--------------------------------
October 5, 2010

I just wanted to let you know that we have received many of your boxes and want to say THANK YOU.  We really appreciate all of the care and support.  It really makes a difference in our lives.  So Thank You again for all of the support, encouragement and care.

Corey Arnold
FOB Bostick
----------------

October 4, 2010

Thanks for the package.  I passed some of it out to my PLT and they also say thank you.  People like you help us push on from day-to-day just by your support.  So again thank you.

Cpl. Brian Wiley
-------------
October 2, 2010:

On behalf of the Board of Directors and our clients in Washington, I would like to personally thank you and your organization for your generous contribution of $100.00 to Heartbeat Serving Wounded Warriors.  These funds are being used to assist injured Marine Ryan _________.  He is just beginning the road to recovery and Heartbeat is helping him with overdue bills, housing and food.  We are also making sure that he receives the help he requires for his medical needs.

Sincerely,
Heartbeat Serving Wounded Warriors
(Ryan is a Marine from Wenatchee, WA)
------------------------------------------------------------
October 2, 2010

I just wanted to say thank you for the care package.  You have no idea how grateful I am.  Everything in the box was perfect.  Thank you so much for your prayers and your support.  It is greatly appreciated.  You are what keeps us safe and motivated!

Thanks Again!

Take care and God Bless,
CPL Jessica Sanders
USMC
-------------

My name is Tyler Stark, the Marine you sent two boxes to.  I wanted to write you all a letter but I think an email would have been a better option.  So in behalf of the boxes, I have received two boxes so far and I loved every bit of them.  You don't realize how important those boxes are to us, even if they are for a different person.  We don't get to see those snack foods everyday or the hygiene supplies.  Opening a box out here is like opening that first present on Christmas, you never know what you're going to get.  Of course, I did share some of the snacks with my brothers in arms because we do everything together out here and I know they appreciated everything too.  I honestly have to admit though that working out here doesn't really seem as big until you receive letters and boxes from people all around the world.  It makes me proud to be fighting for this country and the people in it.  Knowing that they are rooting for you every day just makes it that much easier for us to do our job and to come home safely.  You all are awesome and I appreciate that you are keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.

THANK YOU ALL!!!
LCpl Stark, Joseph T.
3/3 H&S Co. S-6
MEB Alpha
______________________

September 26

I appreciate you all, Jim Ross, Sadie, who always writes a nice note, Emerys and Bodills, Norma Nunamaker, Prosser Long Term Care, and everyone else.

Things have been going well here.  As the season changes, I’m beginning to realize that time really is passing.  There’s lots of work that needs to get done, and not much time for else.

Thanks,
Steven Ayers
101 ABN
FOB Blessing
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September 22, 2010

Just a quick note to thank you and Operation Thank You for the package of goodies.  I placed them out in our common area and the box was empty within minutes!!

LCDR Bob Nash
U.S. Navy Seabees
--------------------------------------
September 19, 2010

Dear Operation Thank You

Thanks for the tasty treats!

Sincerely,
Major Mark Esslinger
Baghdad
-----------------------------------------------------
September 19, 2010

We sincerely appreciate your care package.  It was certainly very thoughtful of you and well received.  It also helped to boost our morale and served as an extremely positive contribution to the overall effort here.  Thanks again for your kindness.

Sincerely,
Major Colin Reece
United States Air Force
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September 19, 2010


Thank you very much for your kindness in sending notes and all the small things we take for granted.  Getting things like this really helps a lot as we’re not always able to gain access to these items.  Thank you so much for the bottom of our hearts.

Marines
(can’t read who from)
-------------------------------------------------
September 18, 2010

I received your care package and have shared the contents with the rest of my team here in Iraq.  Thank you for sending the food and other useful items.  The contents were enjoyed by our whole team, really made our day and brought a smile to our faces.  It is great to see support from home.  The Iraq Security Assistance Mission in Baghdad really appreciates the things Washington Operation Thank You does for overseas military service members.  What you do to support the military makes a positive difference in our daily lives.  Thank you again for taking the time and effort, keep up the good work.

Best Regards,
Theodore (Ted) J. Beatty
Commander, US Navy Reserve
US Forces – Iraq
Iraq Security Assistance Mission

________________________________________

September 18, 2010

Thank you to all of you at Operation Thank You.  It sure is nice to know people care and to have a few things you just can’t get over here.  I enjoyed that High Crimes movie, and Popular Mechanics Magazine.  I gave the playing cards away 4 days later to someone who needed some.  Good snacks too.  And we use the notebooks, socks, and personal care items right up.  I love corn nuts!  Thanks.

You might say business is booming around here.  Recently there was a big battle to the south of our base and I had so much work to do that I woke one day and went to bed the next day’s night, with only 3 hours (all separate hours) to sleep, and a total of 4 hours personal time.  Talk about light in my head and dead on my feet!  But things went well for us in that conflict.

A couple locals who’ve lived here a while said it would be chilly by the end of August, and one said that by the last day of August, I’d need a blanket.  Well it’s not so this year at any rate.  AT the end of August it got up to about 90 degrees in the day and cooled to about 73 degrees outside, 82 degrees inside, by the cool of the morning.

I wish I had a way to print off photos to send you.  You’d be amazed at the steep mountains.  But I guess they’re not much steeper than the Cascades.  I keep wondering if I’ll still enjoy hiking and camping after this.  Probably.

Take Care,
Steven
______________________________________________

September 14, 2010

Thank You all very much for the wonderful box of goodies that you sent NMCB-18.

Everything was greatly appreciated by our troops who are stationed out at remote detachment sites where there are few amenities. 

Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts.

Respectfully,

LCDR Bob Nash
NMCB-18
_____________________________

September 15, 2010

(via email)
We got your packages late last night (partially cuz we had to drive to go get them LOL) ...Thank you very much!  Everyone says Thanks!

Cpl Alex Plemmons
1/8 H&S Co. PSD  Afghanistan
----------------------------------------------

September 6, 2010

I just wanted to say THANK YOU to those of you who have been supporting American Troops.  I am in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.  Been here for 5 months now!  I received the care package from you; thank you so much!  Ya’ll seem to be experienced with these packages; everything was absolutely amazing!  You seem to know our necessities over here.

Thanks for all your prayers.  They are very much needed over here.  Also, thank you for all the support, it is very much appreciated!

God Bless,
Jessica Sanders
USMC
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

September 4, 2010

Thanks for the last boxes. I have turned over the reins to Major James Adams and that unit is now known as the 321 EOSS/CEO. Thanks for all you do!!!

Lt Col W. S. Riehl III
---------------------------------------
September 1, 2010

Thank you so much for the wonderful care package and all the great people of Operation Thank You sent our way this summer.  We have been quite busy getting troops redeployed back to the States.  I myself had the opportunity to go back home during July for a much needed break to visit family and friends.

My time here at Al Asad is drawing to a close.  Chaplain Joseph Shubert will be soon taking my place in just a few weeks.  The mailing address will still be the same, and I will be sure to mention all the wonderful care you give to our troops.

With over 3,000 service members still at Al Asad, they will continue to need your prayers and encouragement in the days and weeks to come.

Thank you for all that you and your organization has done for use this past year.  May God continue to bless you as you have blessed us.

Take care and God Bless,

Chaplain Michael Bigelow.
----------------------------------------------
August 31, 2010

Hello,

My name is Matthew.  I just wanted to write and say thank you for all of the care packages you guys sent.  The food was great and really helped the time fly.

Thanks Again,
Matt
------------------------
August 28, 2010

To everyone who donated, Thank you all for everything you have done for us. It is because of people like you that give us a reason to do what we do. Again thank you for your support! It means more than you think! Semper Fi,

SSgt Jason Chaplin
---------------------------------

August 24, 2010

Thank you for the package you sent me. I don't have a lot of room to keepstuff so I passed on a lot of it around my PLT so they also say thank you.

Cpl. Brian Wiley
------------------------

August 24, 2010

I want to say thank you for the box of goodies you sent. To me, they represent more than a box of goodies, but the great spirit of America. This post card is from one of the boxes that was enclosed with the food we eat. Commonly known as MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), so my apologies for the rough cuts. 

Thanks again, Manny   (Postcard was written on a piece of cardboard)
-----------------------------------------

From the 506 ECES thank you for thinking about us over here. The care packages were greatly appreciated and the cookies reminded us of home.

MSgt Betty Castillo FOB Warrior
---------------------------------
Dear Friends:

On behalf of the Spokane VA Medical Center patients and staff, we wish to thank you for the July 19, 2010 donation of: 13 Hankies 20 Polo Shirts 8 Womans Crew Neck 7 Mens Buttondown Shirts 4 Baseball T-Shirts 3 Sweatshirts 17 T Shirts 2 Windbreakers. These items will be distributed to veteran patients in our medical center and Community Living Center. Rest Assured, your donation will benefit America's heroes. We appreciatey our support of the veterans we serve.

Sincerely,
Carla Lippert
Chief, Voluntary Service
Spokane VA Medical Center
----------------------------------
July 30, 2010

I just wanted to send you an email thanking you for the boxes that you sent
out to me. Everything in the boxes was great and everything will be put to
good use. I for one want to thank you and let you know that the Soldiers
really appreciate everything that you and other volunteers do for us. Thank
you so much and you are very appreciated! Have a wonderful day.

SSG Derrick M Cropper
MILPAY NCOIC
9TH FMCO, Bravo Detachment
COB Adder-Tallil

--------------------------------------------------------
July 30, 2010

My soldier son told me today that he received your box and says THANK YOU! He shares with his buddies and they all wrote a thank you! They appreciated the box very much!


Julie Wright
----------------------------

July 16, 2010

Dear Operation Thank You,

I appreciate the package you sent, and I immediately put the flip-flops to use.  (They wear out so quickly around here, and so do socks).  Everything in it was great, and the HAPO pen reminded me of home.  It’s also nice to write in a color besides black.  Right now, I’m back inside the wire for a few days, so I get to have showers and clean laundry and hot food, even if in a hot, muggy cafeteria.  The raub finally came yesterday, and gave us a break from the heat.  The mountains around here are so beautiful!!! and there’s hedge hogs, frogs, lizards, odd birds, scorpions, and much else.

p.s.  Thank you for the airplane picture

Thanks,
Steve Ayers

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July 15, 2010


Thank you so very much for the package full of goodies…it is so awesome how much support we get.

God Bless you all,

Crystal

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July 13, 2010

Dear Operation Thank You,

You all are the ones we should be thanking, so THANK YOU!.  The goodie boxes are terrific and the cookies are delicious!  Thank you for all your hard work and efforts.  They are valued and appreciated!

Most Sincerely,

TSgt Jeff L.

---------------------------------
July 11, 2010

Soldiers of B Company, 202d MI BN, APO AE 09366, (FOSWA) Kuwait thank you for thinking of us during our deployments.  We miss home.  When we received your package you brought a little home to us.  We just want to say thank you again for thinking of us.

B Company Soldiers

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July 9, 2010

Just want to thank you all for all the love and support you all share with all the deployed troops!

SMSgt Mateo
FOB Warrior

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July 9, 2010

Thanks for all you do for us over here.

SFC Baca, Aaron

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July 5, 2010

Dear Operation Thank You,

Thank you so much for the care package; everything was greatly appreciated.  Everything is going very well in Afghanistan.

I hope you are enjoying your summer.  Thank you so much for your support.

1st Sgt. Matt Hackett
--------------------------------


June 28, 2010

On behalf of the families of the JBLM Fisher House, thank you very much for your thoughtfulness and support,

Sincerely,
The JBLM Fisher House Staff
(Donations in memory of Master Sgt. Mark Coleman, Yelm; and Spec. Joseph Caron, Tacoma)

June 29, 2010

I got a package from you all yesterday!!! it was pretty awesome.. thank you so so much!!! it means a lot to know that there are people out there everyday supporting us..

Crystal Wirth (posted on our Facebook site)

May 30, 2010

OTY,

Your great goodie box arrived in tact!  Office mates enjoyed some candy and the rest went to the chapel at Kirkuk for Soldiers and Airmen.

Thank you for your support and prayers.

Jim


May 11, 2010

On behalf of the families of the Fort Lewis Fisher House, thank you very much for your thoughtfulness and support.

Sincerely,
The Fort Lewis Fisher House
(Donation made in memory of William Spencer, Olympia)

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May 6, 2010

Thank you to all the great people at WA Operation Thank You for the wonderful care package!  We will be sure to pass out the goodies to some of the units here at Al Asad.  Even though you will never get to see the faces and the lives of the people you touch, I can tell you that you are making a huge difference.  You remind us of the goodness of home.  May God continue to bless you as you have blessed us.

Take care and God Bless,
Chaplain Michael Bigelow
-----------------------------------------------------------

April 29, 2010

Dear Caring Friend,
In this time of war, few things are more vital than reaching out to America’s wounded troops as you did with your generous gift of $100.00 in memory of Shawn Jensen and Eric Ward.

For these troops, many of them young adults, your patriotic kindness means a hand up as they begin new lives after severe injuries and trauma.  As a partner in the Wounded Warrior Project mission to honor and empower wounded warriors, you help these men and women move back into the mainstream of the great American life they protected for you and me.

As soon as wounded warriors leave the war zone and arrive at a hospital, you’re  at their bedsides hand-in-hand with WWP.  Through a broad spectrum of WWP programs, you stay with the wounded throughout recovery.  Many people use the phrase, “Support the Troops,” but you put those words into action as combat-inured troops work to build new lives.

Imagine a warrior who sacrificed limbs or sight in Iraq or Afghanistan now skiing down the side of a mountain, starting college, helping a fellow warrior, or beginning a ne job!  Expressing the power of your recent gift to WWP, those images come to my mind as I offer my gratitude to you today.  You have my deepest appreciation.

Saluting your Generosity,

Adam Silva
Chief Development Officer,
Wounded Warrior Project

(Donations in Memory of Shawn Jensen, Benton City and Eric Ward. Redmond)
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April 25, 2010

To WA Operation Thank You,

Hi, I just wanted to write a letter to thank you for the care packages you have sent me.  I received 2 right after we left Haiti. One was full of beanie babies.  We were not able to hand out to the Haitians, so I gave them to the Marines in my Platoon.  They have enjoyed them.  I would like to thank you for the food and shower products in the boxes, they have come in handy for when I run low on my supply.

I am about half done with my deployment and cannot wait to return home to my wife and kids.  Thanks heaven this is my last deployment.

I have one request to ask you.  If you are going to send me another care package, please instead sent it to one of my Marines, as he does not receive much, if any mail.  This would me happy.  His name is ___(left blank for privacy reasons).  You can use the same address as mine; just change the name.  Thank you again for all that you are doing to support our troops.

Sgt. Thomas Wright
USMC

--------------------------

April 25, 2010

Thank you from the Family of SSG John James Cleaver for your gift in John’s name for the Wounded Soldiers of his division—the 82nd Airborne.

The paratroopers of the 1-508 wanted to do a memorial in John’s name.  With the problems of their position in Afghanistan and the factors of transfers, they were unable to establish the fund.  They let me know mid-February.  I knew a similar charity must exist.  With the help of Ft. Leonard Wood and Ft. Bragg, I found it.

It is the 82nd Airborne Division Wounded Warrior Committee at Ft. Bragg, NC.  Volunteer Army Spouses and Surviving Spouses give 100% of donations for items for our Wounded Heroes at Walter Reed, Brooke and Womack Army Medical Centers.  The WWC welcomes and visits the Heroes in each hospital.

$785 was contributed for the SSG John Cleaver Memorial Fund.  These are John’s troops—the soldiers he led, the soldiers who led him, trained with him, worked with him, fought by his side, and parachuted with him—his “band of Brothers”.

Thank you for your support through John’s life and generosity upon his death.  WE are so touched and proud.  When we look back upon John’s life and our life we see many sets of footprints in the sand because it was then “you” helped God carry us.  Your contributions will also help carry other soldiers through their recuperation period, so you have touched many lives with your donations.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Ronald, Teresa, Ron, Rhonda, Collin, and Aidan
And the 4th Brigade 1-508 82nd Airborne
(Donation made in memory or John Cleaver, Marysville, WA)
----------------------------------------------
April 19, 2010

We the “Sledgehammer Team” of the 3rd Brigade Infantry Division would like to take the opportunity to express our sincere appreciation towards your wonder hospitality and overwhelming support during our deployment of OIF VII.  Thank you for putting forth the time and effort to provide the Soldiers of the Sledgehammer Brigade with religious gifts, and “treats” in support of the Chaplain Assistant Panty.  On behalf of the “sledgehammer Team”, we truly appreciate your generosity and Thanks Again!

Sledgehammer!
Rock of the Marne!
James M. Pearson
3HBCT 31D
Hammer 7

Peter L. Jones
3HBCT 31D
Hammer 6



March 24, 2010

Dear Friend of the Veteran:
Thank you for your very kind donation, which we received today.  Your generosity will make an immediate difference in the lives of our Veterans.  The comfort items will go toward our Veteran patients.

You are making a difference!

Your thoughtfulness is very much appreciated by all of us at VA Puget Sound.

March 3, 2010

Thank you very much for the box of goodies!  It will all be put to very good use.  I really cannot thank you enough for your support and for thinking of me.  Although life over here is not bad, it is always very nice to get packages and letters from home.  I hope all is well back home for all of you who are so kind and support us while we are away from home.  Please take care and thank you again!!

Very respectfully,
Capt. Dani Schnitker
______________________

February 16, 2010

I wanted to thank you for the Valentines Care package.  I passed out the v various items to my fellow soldiers and all were appreciative.  Thanks for thinking of us.

MSG Cruz
___________________

January 15, 2010,

Thank you so much for your care package.  It is a good feeling to know that someone you have never met cares enough to send you something to brighten your day.  The items in the package were shared with my fellow soldiers.  They told me to thank you as well.

It is pretty windy and dusty over here currently but so far the rain has stayed away; which is good I am told because this area will become extremely muddy and nasty when it rains. Although I might trade the dust for the mud right now because it gets into everything and it is hard to keep things clean.  Again, thank you for your support.

Very respectfully,

Margarea Telfer

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January 11, 2010

Thank you so much for your recent care package you sent to one of our Marines.  He redeployed back home and so the package came to the Chapel where we put out the candy, snacks, and other treats so that they are available to our Marines, Airmen, Sailors, and Soldiers as they stop in to worship, seek advice, or just to get a hot cup of Joe.  The thoughtfulness of you and other Americans does not go unnoticed even if you will never meet the lives that you and your organization have touched.  May God continue to bless you as you have blessed us,

Take care and God Bless,
Chaplain Michael Bigelow
______________________

Thank you for all of your support to those serving in the Middle East!  Your gifts provide a feeling of home!

Janis Clark

----------------------------
Thank you so much for your kind gifts!  It means a lot to us here!

PFC Jennifer Young

----------------------------------------

Thanks for all the care packages and taking the time to send it to us in Iraq.  We are very thankful and appreciate it.  It’s the little things that make a big difference.  We are glad to have support.  Hoping you all have a safe and wonderful holiday.

Sgt. Aiden Fraser
A Co. 141 CSC

---------------------------------------------

Over the years OTY has supported my folks a number of times on a number of important deployments in defense of the U.S. and our allies.  I just want to say Thank You for your selfless service to our men and women in uniform.  Every package changes someone’s day/week/month for the better.

Take care and Gold Bless You,

David W. Walter
Major, USAFR
506th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron Commander

--------------------------------------------

The Night Stalker Association would like to thank you for your generous support.  Your donation will be used to assist soldiers and families of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) through educational scholarships and family member assistance in time of need.

Thank you again for your patriotism and kindness

Night Stalker Association
(This donation in memory of Chief Warrant Officer Niall Lyons, Spokane, WA)

December 2009

Thank you for your generosity and support.  We appreciate all you’ve done to comfort our needs while deployed.  God Bless.  Semper Fidelis.

MWSS 472
Motor T Maint
_________________________

The attached pictures and card were received from Ken Primus: (He is the soldier on the far right)

Merry Chnristas and thank you for the thoughtful package.  I managed to spread the wealth among our team and some of the locals.  God Bless and thanks again.

Ken Primus








____________________________________________
As the Commander of a Michigan National Guard Unit we received a few of your packages.  On behalf of my soldiers, I would like to “thank” you and your organization for the items that were contained within the packages.  My unit will be rotating out very shortly and as the holiday season is upon us it is always a treat to receive items from the U.S.  Thank you again for your support and holiday greetings to you and your family and organization.

David A. Haber
Capt. 62-201st OMLT
FOB Bostick, Afghanistan
________________________
Thank you from all the marines from the MEB G-3.

LCpl Moody
_______________________
We all appreciate you support.

Sgt. Anderson
_______________________
Thank you

Sgt. Clabaugh
_______________________
Thank you for thinking of us.  We appreciate your thoughts.  Semper Fidelis.

Capt McKinnon
_______________________
Thank you all for the support.  Everything was great.  You make being here worth it.

SFC Martin, T.
________________________
Thank you for your support to my soldiers.  May you enjoy a great holiday season.

CSM Richard Wilson
3-61 Cav.
_____________________
Hello,

My name is Sgt. Heather Bivins.  I’m with the 26th MP Det.  I really would like to tell all of you how much your box truly meant.  It’s so nice to know that people are back home with full support.  I really just would like to tell all of you Thank you, and God Bless.  Thank You   xo xo

Sgt. Heather Bivins
______________________

Dear Operation Thank You,

We received your box on 28 Nov 09 and we thank you very much for it.  Everything was shared and appreciated.  I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving and have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!  Thanks sooo much.

All the soldiers of C Co. 603rd ASB JNN
_______________________

From All of Us!!  Thank You!!  Merry Christmas.

1SG Apollo
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November 2009

Wow, Great Stuff for the young Marines and sailors here in Iraq.  Thank you so much for supporting us.

CWO4 Darrell Black
-----------------------------------------
November 4, 2009
I appreciate the fact that you have taken time out to send me a care package.  I feel very honored.  I am glad to know that there are people out there who are proud for what we do.  I do hope that I get to hear from you gain.
Thanks,

Cpl. Flores
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November 15, 2009
Thank you for taking the time to send care package to soldiers overseas.  WE have received several packages for several months and always enjoy getting them.  I just wanted you to know that we appreciate what you do for us.

MSg Cruz
____________________________________
October 2009

October 22, 2009

Thank you for partnering with Camp Patriot to give back to those who have given and sacrificed so much of their personal well being.  We encourage you to watch our website or call us at any time to see how we are progressing.  Together we can accomplish much!

We especially appreciate the honor you are giving to Ryan Job, his family, and all veterans on his behalf by this contribution.
You also are deserving of our honor.  Thank You

Camp Patriot
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I just wanted to take the time and say Thank You for the care packages that you had sent to Marines stationed in Iraq. My Marines and I have just taken over for another company here in Iraq and I did not know if they had sent you a thank you back.  Even though this war has been going on for six years it is still good to know that people like yourselves still care enough to take time out of your lives and send items to the troops. I know the Marines under my command greatly appreciate it. People like you are the reason we are here doing what we do to make sure the liberties of our nation can be enjoyed by other nations that did not have a chance to decide that for themselves. Thank you again.

Sgt. Christian White, MWSS-472 MTM
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Thank you for all of the goodies and supplies.  I will share them with the troops.  Thank you for caring for our young men and women.

Chaplain Johnson
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Once again, many, many thanks for your generous donations toward our luncheons at Bethesda!  This will most definitely make the luncheons a little more special.  Thank You!  Jane LeCompte (Marine Moms at Bethesda).
-------------------------------------------------
On behalf of the families of the Fort Lewis Fisher House, thank you very much for your thoughtfulness and Support.

Sincerely,

The Fort Lewis Fisher House Staff
_____
September 2009

September 7, 2009
I received your care package yesterday.  Thank you so much.  I really enjoyed the Girl Scout cookies and Halloween candy.  I’m sharing the rest with my friends.  It’s always heartwarming to receive support from people back home.  It reaffirms my faith in America.

We’ve had some long, hard, filthy days out here, but our tour is almost complete.   Just a few more weeks.  I will probably beat this letter back to the States!!  I’m really looking forward to coming back, to driving my car, going to the beach, of course seeing my family and friends.  I have a caring Country to come back to.  I’m grateful for that.

Sincerely,

Cpl. Neil P. Campbell
____________________________________________________
Dear Sir/Ma'am:

I wanted to thank you for the nice care package.  I enjoyed the various snacks as well as the personal care items. 

We stay very busy here so sometimes it takes me awhile to respond.

I work for USARCENT, which is known by most as third Army and was made famous in the movie “Patton”.

The weather here is generally much hotter than the U.S.  with highs right now around 125 degrees during the day.  I work in an air conditioned building and generally do not get out much during the day so the hot weather doesn’t bother me much.

Thanks again for the care package.  It’s nice to know that folks back home are thinking of us.

Take Care,
MSG Ken Cruz
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September 2, 2009

Dear Friend of the Veteran:

Thank you for your very kind donation, which we received today.  Your generosity will make an immediate difference in the lives of our Veterans.  The numerous comfort items will go toward our Veteran patients.

You are making a difference!

Your thoughtfulness is very much appreciated by all of us at VA Puget Sound
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THANK YOU for taking time out for us over here. Much needed things we did receive.   We are headed home in November!

Thank you!! Thank You! Go Bombers!

Spc. Harter
Spec Krebs
Sgt Gehl
Sgt Burok
PFC Calascione
SSGT Rogers
1LT Kroger
Spec Alex Smith

Camp Taji
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August:

Thank you for the package.  It means a lot to receive such an assortment of gifts!

SPC Miller
---------------------------------
Thank you so very much for the care package for us folks here at the Fire Dept!  Your support is very much appreciated by us all.  Thank You on behalf of the Kirkuk Air Base Fire Department.

Mathew
-------------------------------------
THANK YOU!
Chris Flores
----------------------------------
Thank you very much for your gift.  Your kindness is greatly appreciated!  We look forward to opening packages like these, ones sent with love and thoughtfulness.  It brings a special joy to the day, knowing that friends and family back home are supporting us and thinking of us.

On behalf of all the Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines – THANK YOU!
Deputy Command Chaplain, MNC-1
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To Everyone at Operation Thank You,

We are leaving Iraq soon and just wanted to send a thank you for all the packages we’ve received from you.  They were a big bright spot during our time here.

Sincerely,

SGT Eric Mahoney and the HQ Platoon of A Co. 1-161 Infantry
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Thank You so much for sending the package to us.  I must say that you brought a great joy to my day upon opening it.  Thank you for your support and I am sincere when I say that it is easy to serve my country with the support of people like you.

SGT Levens
-------------------------------------------
Thank You for the package.  There is not much time left over here and it is good to know people are still thinking of us.  Thank You

1LT Robert Theriault
-------------------------------------------
Thank you for covering for the soldiers over here.  God Bless

SPC Smith, 1/82
-----------------------------------------------

Thank you so much for the care package.  Everything in there was perfect.  It will come in handy over here.  I hope all is well back home.  I heard its been really hot! Kinda like here. LOL.  Please tell everyone thank you for me! Talk to you Soon.

SPC Benitz
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Thanks for the things that were sent.

Fort Hood Soldier 1/82

SPC Smith
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Thank you for sending me a big bag of love.  Made by day so much better.

Sgt. Ryan Sexton
-----------------------------------------------

Thank you for the care package.  The boys love it and so does everyone who comes into the office.  The candy is the biggest winner.  Thank you for your support and keep us in your prayers.

Sgt. Tammy Fornwald and the Motor pool Gang
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Thank you so much for making our deployment more enjoyable and comforting.  The Operation Thank You packages were a huge morale booster and made for several fun evenings.  Thanks again for all that you do and keep up the good work!  God Bless!


June 2009

Folks,
Just wanted to take a moment to say thanks for all the nice food and stuff you sent.  It’s always a breath of fresh air to see good things from home instead of what’s on the news.  Keep us in your thoughts and prayers and God willing we’ll ALL come home.

Noel Torres
Petty Officer, 1st Class
U. S. Navy
Brooklyn, NY
_____________________________________________
Thank you for all the boxes that you sent out.  A lot of it came in handy since 8 of our guys lost everything in a fire.  Everything is fine here. We are on our way home in a couple months.

Sgt Rob Plemmons, USMC.
-------------------------------------------------
Thank you for the box of goodies!  Most of the time I know when I’m expecting a box—this was a wonderful surprise.  I’m coming to the end of my 6-month deployment and the injection of food from home is a wonderful addition to the chow hall food.  Thank you for remembering  those of us who are deployed.

Maj. Kathi Myers, USAF

May 2009:
Hello Damon and Macey.  My name is Lukas Maltsberger.  I really enjoyed your letters and all of the goodies in the box which were shared throughout our platoon.  This is my 3rd tour here in Iraq. Really appreciate your support.  Please stay safe.
Lukas
ACO-161

Dear Friend of the Veteran:

Thank you for your very kind donation, which we received today.  Your generosity will make an immediate difference in the lives of our Veterans.  The books, clothing, healthy snacks, and numerous other comfort items will go toward our Veteran patients.  You are making a difference!

Your thoughtfulness is very much appreciated by all of us at VA Puget Sound.
Department  of Veterans Affairs
Puget Sound
Health Care System

April 2009
I just wanted to drop you a line and say thank you!  The package was filled with lots of great stuff and really made my day.
N.H.

February 2009
Hello!  My name is Shirley Yamamoto, 2LT Matthew Yamamoto's mom.  My son received a package from your group, Washington Operation Thank You.  I know he wrote your group a thank-you note but my husband, Harry, and I wanted to thank you ourselves for remembering him during his tour of duty in Iraq.  Although he says he can get most anything over there, it was special to get a package from your group and know that his time over there is appreciated!  He graduated from WSU in May of 2008 and arrived in Iraq at the beginning of December.  He is scheduled to return home in September of 2009.  We are so proud of him for wanting to serve his country! 
Harry and Shirley Yamamoto, parents of 2LT Matthew Yamamoto

Thank you first of all for the care package.  The snacks were all great, the five-hour energy shots were especially useful right away, as we ran a convoy on the day that I got them.  The movie, The Alamo, was also great.  I hadn’t seen it before and it was awesome.  It is good to know that people back home support us.  Your gift helped me as well as many others.  Thank you again,
Travis
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Thanks for all of your help.  And thank you for caring.  It made a difference.
David Kelley, TSgt, USAF
-------------------------------
I wanted to thank you for all the packages you sent.  They make everyone feel good.  ACO 1-161 INF Platoon sends their thanks.  Also we hope your holidays went well and the new year is better than the last.  Thank you again. 
Your soldiers from ACO 1-161
----------------------------------
On behalf of Hunter and his family, we would like to thank you for your generous donation. Because of people like you, we can do many things to make Hunter’s life much more comfortable.  He is adjusting to not having sight; but it will be a long road for him.  Check out www.Heartsforhunter.com.
 
Sherrie Meaux (family friend)
---------------------------------
Your kindness and concern have meant so very much and will always be remembered.

Family of Cpt. Rob Yllescas

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On behalf of the families of the Fort Lewis Fisher House, thank you very much for you thoughtfulness and support.

The Fort Lewis Fisher House Staff

January 2009
Postcard:
I hope my letter and this postcard find you in a timely manner.  Thank you again for the personal hygiene and snack items.  They are appreciated more than you can imagine.  Thanks Again.
Sincerely, 2LT Matthew Yamamoto - A Co 181st BSB

Letter:
My name is 2LT Matthew Yamamoto and I’m currently stationed in Southern Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Recently I received your care package and cannot begin to express my level of appreciation for you thoughtfulness and concern.  I apologize for the baby blue stationery, but the PX here on COB Adder is somewhat lacking in choices.  This being my first deployment, holiday away from home, and first time overseas, it’s extremely nice to receive such nice gestures from all of you back home.

I have enclosed a custom 81st BDE patch that I found outside of the PX at Seitz (VBC/BIAP/ W. Baghdad).  Please accept it as a token of my immerse appreciation.  I apologize for the penmanship, but the missions we run are during the night and pre-dawn hours so our sleep cycles and periods of free time are often times not in conjunction with one another.  I hope this letter and your postcard find you well.

Sincerely, Matt Yamamoto
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Thank you for the care packages. I appreciate all your prayers and support for me and the troops around the world serving our country.  Thanks again!
LTC Patty Kubeja
---------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you for thinking of the troops. We appreciate everything all of you are doing, even if some of us aren't the best at expressing it.
SSG Hoppe
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THANK YOU! We all enjoyed everything you sent!
TSGT Philip Davidson, USAF
-------------------------------------------
I received your package today. Thank you so much for the contents inside. My roommates and I will find uses for everything. I'm very grateful for individuals like you all who take time out of your busy day to remember people like me. It's very much appreciated. Happy Holidays and Take Care,
Spc. Lorena Charron
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On behalf of a grateful battalion, thank you for supporting the soliders deployed for our nation.
Sincerely, SFC Daniel Hadd
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I just wanted to say thank you. Several of my soldiers opened the box you sent. It means a lot to them that you care. THAT means a lot to me.
CPT K. Bradley
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Greetings from Iraq!  Just wanted to say thank you to you and the others who put all the care packages together. It means a lot!
PFC Jeremy Almond
-------------------------------------------------------------------
I would like to thank you for the care package that you sent me.  Each package I receive is a reminder of home and why we are here.  Enjoy your holidays.
PSC Scott Jue
-------------------------------------
Thank you so much for your kindness and appreciation for the military.  You have really made myself and my Marines happy with this special package.  Thank you.  Have a wonderful holiday.  Merry Christmas.
Sincerely, Jonathan Mill, Sgt. USMC
-----------------------------------
Thank you for the care package.  It was so nice to get one.  I was really excited.  You don’t know what you’ll miss until you can’t buy it in a store.
Love, Debra Alley
------------------------------
Thank you for the box of treats.  Your time and effort to show support for military members serving overseas is greatly appreciated by me and my troops.  Thanks again.
Capt. Duane Franks

Thank you for the care package.
Spc. Jeremy C. Raymond

Thank you for your thoughtfulness.  These care packages you send to soldiers really makes our day when we get one.  We put up our Christmas tree and stocking in our room.  It makes it feel a little homey and Christmassy while we are away from home.  Thank you again and hope you all know what you do is very much appreciated.  We all wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Spc. Alexis J. Sanchez
WA Army National Guard

My husband and I would like to thank you so, so, so much for the care package.  We appreciate that you took time out to do something so nice. It really means a lot.  We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Sgt. Felipe Gonzalez and Spc Jennifer Gonzalez

Thank you ever so much for the care package!  I have never seen one emptied so fast.  My soldiers greatly appreciate the support.
1Lt Theriault, Robert

THANK YOU SO MUCH, this package was perfect.  I shared this package with some of my battle-buddies.  It was everything we could have wished for.  Thank you again.
Spc. Alexis J. Sanchez

Please tell everyone at Washington Operation Thank You that we really appreciate everything you do.  I received my packages today and everything in the box will go a long way towards making the time away from family as enjoyable as possible.  The table top Christmas tree has already been put up in our office and we will be decorating it when we get a few free minutes.  Not sure if you remember, but I met you this past May at a coming home dinner at Red Robin for Erin Abramson, my wife.  We both thank you so very much and hopefully whenever I come home, Erin, Gracie and I will be able to come back up to the Tri-Cities and tell you thank you again in person.  Again, we appreciate everything you guys send and cant wait to be home with friends and family.

SRA JUSTIN D. KIRK, USAF
506 EXPEDITIONARY COMMUNICATIONS SQUADRON
KIRKUK REGIONAL AIR BASE, KIRKUK, IRAQ

Shaun received the package that you folks sent to him on Thursday. He wants to Thank all of you and was very surprised to get it. I also want to thank you for all you do for our Troops. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and may God Bless all of you!
Shaun Blair, US Navy (through his dad Doug Blair )


Click Here to read a letter from Chaplain Lance Jennings.

Thank you for the box.  It was nice to see from my home town.  Your last name (Nunamaker) is my wife mom’s maiden name.  So if this is part of her family thank you so much!
Chris Coburn

What an awesome early “Christmas” present!!!  Our team thanks you all.  God Bless you.
Major W. Patience, 11/28/2008

Ladies, I wanted to email and thank you for the care package.  It arrived last week in a huge mail delivery of shipping containers that had been held up during one of the muslim holidays.  I specifically wanted to email because a letter would arrive after your Christmas break had started. I am assuming that my sister Rachael was the one who had given you my address.  It was surprising to get a package from my high school after 20 years, and my elementary school after 30 years. My soldiers wanted me to thank you especially for the beef jerky. That is always popular here. Please also pass on my thanks to Mrs. Holst, as I was unable to find aemail address for her. If your students are interested, I would be happy to answer any questions they have.  If so I would prefer to get them from your email addresses. Thank you again 
CPT Aaron Garner

Thanks so much for the Christmas care package which arrived today!  It made my day!  The contents are well considered.  I’ve already erected the tree and shared the contents!  THANKS!
LTC Rich Haller, USAF,  11/27/2008

Thank you so much!  The care package was very thoughtful.  We received the packages on Thanksgiving Day.  My favorite parts are the cards and notes from the school children.  This helps make the holidays away from home much easier to accept.  Thank you again for your generosity and kindness.
Steve  Simpson
CMSgt, United States Air Force


June 2008

THANK YOU SOOOOOOO MUCH!!!! That was a really nice thing what you did with the picture!!!!!!!  I've already told everyone to go look at it  :) and thank you all for the packages...it is a very big pick me up to get something in the mail ..it's like christmas all over again  :)  it's not only hard on us out here serving...but just as hard being there.  It takes a toll on people like you all ..and Aunt Carla who care so much.  It warms my heart to see the pictures on the website of everyone packing care packages.  It's a very good thing you all do and to be able to claim that is wonderful instant gratification. I CANT WAIT to get the care package!!! Did I leave my address or did aunt Carla give it to you? 
HM2 Lindsay Grimes - Kuwait

Thank you very much for my package.  It came at a great time!  My unit (2 Marine Div Light Armored Recon) is two days away from going on a two month operation.  Please know your packages are “awesome”.
Thanks, Robin

Thank you for your support.  We appreciate your concern and active involvement with the Marines in Iraq. 
LCPL Hilton

We received your wonderful package today.  Oh, what joy it brings us to know that there are people back home that support the troops and actually take the time to show it.  Yours truly,
SPC Jay Bales

I wanted to write and say Thank You for the care package I received from you.  It is always nice to receive support from the “Homefront”.  All the items will be used while I am here in Afghanistan.  I am a Hospital Corpsman with the Marines.  I am in the Navy, but because the Marines do not have a Medical Department, the Navy provides them with Doctors, Dentists, Nurses and enlisted Medics, but they call us Corpsman instead.  We also go by the nickname “Doc”.  Again, thank you for the package and keep supporting us over here.  Prayers for us always keep us going. 
Hospital Corpsman Second Class Pete Adam

Thank you for your support and your packages during our deployment.  My name is SPC Jason Moore.  I attend the Bastogne Chapel where Chaplain Kulhlman works.  I can not say how much the support of you and everyone like you means to us.  P.S. I have seen your picture in the Chapel. God Bless ! 
Jason Moore


Always taking addresses for care packages !! Click here
"Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few."

Sir Winston Churchill


WASHINGTON
        OPERATION THANK YOU
For those that deny themselves the comfort and security of their homes to protect our freedom,
We are forever in your debt.

"If this is important, we can win this. We know we can win it. There's nobody more convinced of that than the young troops who have spent the most time over there." 

Marine General James Mattis (former Richland resident)

LETTERS FROM THE TROOPS