Here are some examples of our latest emails... (By Date - Recent News First )
2012
From: Duarte, Jerry MSG USA JSC-ASubject: RE: Holiday Care Package (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Thursday, February 2, 2012, 9:24 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
Josey,
We just received your Super Bowl care package. This
package has made it
a lot brighter to watch the game and enjoy some snacks from back home.
Well it's been cold, snowing, and rainy over here for the last several
months. I truly want to thank you, your family, and your staff for the
efforts ya'll had made on behalf of the troops. It really means a lot
to
me, the soldier's, and all the contractors that work with us. Thanks
again from the bottom of my heart. Your organization has lifted our
spirits in many ways. Stay warm and look forward to chatting with you
in the near future.
v/r
Jerry D Duarte
MSG 74D5O
Joint Sustainment Command-Afghanistan(JSC-A)
Joint Operations Center NCOIC
Kandahar Air Field Kandahar, Afghanistan
From: Collins,
Christopher M SPC MIL USA USARPAC
Subject: Care packages (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2012, 2:53 AM
UNCLASSIFIED
Hello. I am SPC Christopher Collins and I am a Chaplain's Assistant
currently serving in Afghanistan. My unit, 2-377 PFAR, arrived in December
of 2011 and will be deployed for a year. The Chaplain's and my goal
is to help make the deployment a little more comfortable for the troops
(especially those in the outlying COPs who have trouble obtaining such
stuff as hygiene items). We also run a store at our home station where
people can come in and grab what they want. We aren't looking for anything
in particular but if you can help support us with whatever can be sent
it would be greatly appreciated. 2-3 boxes a month if possible. I thank
you in advance and for all that you have done for deployed Soldiers.
Our mailing address is as follows: SPC Christopher Collins (POC)
From: Shenton, Matthew F
CPT USA USA TF Wolfpack Chaplain
Subject: Thanks (UNCLASSIFIED)
To: Josey@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Sunday, January 1, 2012, 1:35 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Josey,
We received the big box of
candy just in time for everyone's New Year's
resolution to eat better (ha-ha!). We really do appreciate all of your
support. May God bless you in this New Year.
For God and Country,
Chaplain Matthew Shenton
TF 1-82 Wolfpack
2011
From: Weinrich, Christopher W CPT USA 1-7 CAV ChaplainSubject: RE: MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011, 8:37 AM
Josey,
Our Christmas went well in the desert!! The chapel services, unit football
tournament, XBOX tournament and some well needed down time gave the
Soldiers
options for their Christmas day. Thankfully, most Soldiers spend time
on
Facebook, Skype and the phones with their loved ones.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! Thank you for the support...the
Soldiers appreciate awesome folks back home helping out to make the
holidays
a little better. Thank you!!
Peace,
CH (CPT) Chris Weinrich
1-7 CAV, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division
Camp Buehring, KU APO AE 09330
From: Shenton, Matthew F CPT USA USA TF Wolfpack Chaplain
Subject: RE: MERRY CHRISTMAS (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Saturday, December 24, 2011, 10:06 PM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
MERRY CHRISTMAS! To you as well. We did get the box. Thank you very
much. Things have been busy so I have gotten a little behind on my
responses. We greatly appreciate you support. God Bless you.
For God and Country,
Chaplain Matthew Shenton
TF 1-82 Wolfpack
DSN 851-5498
SIPR 851-1003
"The one who endures to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:13
From: Grady, Denise SPC MIL USA TF Longhorn
Subject: RE: MERRY CHRISTMAS! (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Monday, December 26, 2011, 1:45 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Hello yes it came I time
and once again it was great I can't begin to
tell you how grateful we are to have someone like you thank you so much
and Have a wonderful Holiday Season
From: Duarte, Jerry MSG USA JSC-A
Subject: Holiday Care Package (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Sunday, December 18, 2011, 3:45 PM
Josey,
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for your prayers
and well wishes to me and my family. Our unit as you may or may not
know is based out of San Antonio, Texas. Your care package and personal
note have lifted our spirits at a time when we are so far away from
our
friends and family. What you and your staff are doing is very noble
and
very much appreciated by me, my soldier's. and the civilians. The care
packaged was shared with the entire unit. We Americans can stand
shoulder to shoulder in unison on one thing - we're all proud of our
country and we're all proud of each other. The effort you make on
behalf of the troops is just as important as the work we are doing here
and around the world. Once again thank you, your family, and your
staff.
v/r
Jerry D Duarte
Joint Sustainment Command-Afghanistan(JSC-A)
Joint Operations Center NCOIC
Kandahar Air Field Kandahar, Afghanistan
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
From: Duarte, Jerry MSG USA
JSC-A
Subject: Thank You (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Wednesday, December 14, 2011, 8:00 PM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
Josey,
We just received your box
of treats. The soldier's were happy and
amazed by the amount of stuff that was in the box. I want to personally
thank you, your family, and the good people that made this happen. It
has brighten the holiday for the soldier's. From my soldier's, the 4
ESC, and the U.S Army, Thank you for all your help and support.
v/r
Jerry D Duarte
MSG 74D5O
Joint Sustainment Command-Afghanistan(JSC-A)
Joint Operations Center NCOIC
Kandahar Air Field Kandahar, Afghanistan
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
From: Michael Pickar
Date: Monday, December 5, 2011, 11:17 AM
Thank you for all your treats the guys have been LOVING it!
We have several guys home in the states for the next 2 weeks for their R&R break. The Holidays are always a tough time, but with support from our family, friends, and Americans like you we will get through them with smiles on our faces!
Thank You!
CW2 Pickar, Michael A
From: Weinrich, Christopher W CPT USA 1-7 CAV Chaplain
To: "josey@treatsforthetroops.us"
Date: Thursday, December 1, 2011, 6:54 AM
Greetings from the desert...I'm currently serving as the chaplain for 1-7 CAV out of Fort Hood, TX, on a 12 month deployment to Iraq and Kuwait. We recently left Iraq (thank goodness) and now have a new mission in Kuwait. With this new mission, and the thought that we might be home for the holidays, our Soldiers have gone through some tough times lately.
May I ask (on behalf of the unit) for the group to send us some care packages for the holidays? We have around 500 Soldiers with around 12 females.
Thank you and God's Blessings!!
CH (CPT) Chris Weinrich
From: Jay Pugh
Subject: RE: Checking?
Date: Sunday, November 13, 2011, 9:16 PM
Josey,
Hi. It's good to hear from you. I hope ALLis WELL w/YOU, YOUR FAMILY,
and FRIENDS.
Yes my address is still valid.
Have you started to get ready 4 the CRAZY Holdays? ha ha Winter is on
the way so stay warm.
Take Care,
Jimmie
From: Shenton, Matthew F
CPT USA USA TF Wolfpack Chaplain
Subject: care package (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Friday, October 28, 2011, 5:53 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Josey,
I just received the care
package full of hygiene items. Everyone gets
excited when they see me getting mail because they know that most things
addressed to me are really for them. Again, we greatly appreciate your
support; especially the prayers.
For God and Country,
Chaplain Matthew Shenton
TF 1-82 Wolfpack
DSN 851-5498
SIPR 851-1003
"Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
From: Jackson, Stacey SFC
USA Eco TF 4-227 MP NCO
Date: Monday, August 1, 2011, 4:47 AM
Hi and good
afternoon,
We have received the package and will be sending out a thank
you letter soon. The Soldiers really appreciated the goodies and books.
Thank you again for you support.
SFC Jackson,
Stacey
E Co TF 4-227
From: Mendoza, Elmer J. SSGT USA USAF Role 3
Subject: Care Packages for Blood/Platelet Donors
Cc: "Sullivan, Thomas C. SSGT USAF USA ROLE 3"
Date: Monday, July 11, 2011, 4:32 PM
Josey and Company,
Thanks for all the support that you had given us the past 6 months.
My Team had reached our end of tour and we are getting ready to go back
to our home units. Thanks for all the care packages you had sent the
Platelet Apheresis team. Our Platelet/Blood donors really appreciate
the care packages you sent. As I depart Afghanistan, I would like to
introduce you to my replacement, (SSgt Sullivan). He will take over
my place and will be here in
Afghanistan for the next 6 months.
I am hoping that you can give him the same undying support you had provided
me and my team.
Thanks again for everything!
v/r,
//signed - em//
Elmer Mendoza, SSgt, USAF
Role 3 Platelet Apheresis Technician
Kandahar Afghanistan
From: Donaldson, Capt Michael
J (1/5 A Co CO)
Subject: Thank You!
Date: June 5, 2011
Good afternoon Treats For The Troops, Josey, Jeff, and all those who support us here in Afghanistan,
My name is Captain Michael Donaldson and I am the Commanding Officer for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines. I just received your thoughtful care package and wanted to relay my thanks, as well as the thanks of the Marines in this Company. Every gesture of kindness, be it a care package, a letter, or an email, means so much to us over here in Afghanistan. The support of friends and family back home keeps us focused on our job at hand and reminds us of what we have to come back to at the end of our deployment. The snacks that you sent in your package will be much appreciated by my Marines. Thank you so much for your support and I hope to hear from you again.
Captain Michael Donaldson
From: Jay Pugh
Subject: "HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY"!
Date: Sunday, May 29, 2011, 11:41 PM
Josey,
Hello Josey, Family & Friends. Me and the team THANK ALL OF YOU
VERY MUCH FOR TAKING THE TIME TO SEND US WONDERFUL CARE PACKAGES and
WE ALSO WISH ALL OF YOU A "VERY HAPPY & SAFE MEMORIAL DAY"
TOO! I KNOW THE KIDS WILL BE PLAYING and THE BBQ WILL B GRILLING.
I hear about ALL of the recent BAD weather, I hope things let up enough
to allow ALL Americans a time to relax on Memorial Day.
Anyway, we know we are in
your THOUGHT'S and PRAYERS - THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Again, we WISH EVERYONE a SAFE and ENJOYABLE MEMORIAL DAY!
Take Care,
Jimmie
From: Jay Pugh
Subject: VERY NICE CARE PACKAGE!
Date: Monday, May 23, 2011, 2:11 AM
Josey,
Hi and Good Day/Night 2 U and Your Family. I hope ALL is WELL w/EVERYONE!
I wanted to say THANK YOU VERY MUCH AGAIN FOR SUCH A WONDERFUL CARE
PACKAGE!
EVERYONE LOVED GETTING A BEANIE BABY and WOW THE SNACKS ARE GREAT -
WE SURE WILL ENJOY THE M & M'S and SNACK BAR'S!
How's the weather there - starting 2 b summer yet? Well i'm sure all
of the kid's can't wait and will love when school os finally out.
Well it's smoking over here already - it's already 108 and climbing.
We had our first heat casualty on base yesterday, poor guy fell face
flat onto rocks - he won't soon forget this.
Please tell EVERYONE WE SAY THANK U VERY MUCH FOR TAKING THE TIME 2
SEND US THESE GREAT CARE PACKAGES!
EVERYONE HAVE A SAFE & ENJOYABLE SUMMER - Take Care,
Jimmie
From: Mendoza, Elmer J. SSGT USA USAF Role 3
Subject: Care Package
To: "Josey"
Date: Saturday, May 21, 2011, 12:33 AM
Josey and Company,
Thank you very much for the Care Package that you had sent us. Our
"donors" are liking the granola bars that you sent. I gave
the Beanie babies
to our in-patient ward here.
On behalf of the hospital staff....I'd like to extend my sincerest
gratitude to you and your company for all the support that you had given
us.
v/r,
//signed - em//
Elmer Mendoza, SSgt, USAF
Role 3 Platelet Apheresis Technician
Kandahar Afghanistan
From: gary jimenez
Subject: Re: Troop_Request
Date: Thursday, May 19, 2011, 9:19 AM
Mrs. Josey,
My Unit just received your box today :) WOW thank you sooooo much for
everything. Everyone was very happy and everything will get used. I'm
going to take a Unit Picture and send you guys an American Flag signed
by all my Soldiers. It means alot to all of us too see that people still
care and think about the Soldiers here, I can't express how much it
means, again thank you so much. If you could please send me an address
to send the picture and flag.
THANK YOU
SFC JIMENEZ, GARY
This card came in from Capt Coleen Hollis 5/14/11 with pictures
From: Jimenez,
Gary
Date: Monday, April 25, 2011, 2:49 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Hi,
My BN just arrived to Bagram
Afghanistan, (79TH EOD BN) active duty
out of FT. hood tx and I was just seeing if we could receive any support
from you Folks, this is our first deployment to Afghanistan as a BN.
Anything thing would be appreciated. If there is anything you would
want
from us, I will make it happen.
Thank you so much......
GARY JIMENZ
From: Jay Pugh
Subject: THANK YOU SO MUCH !
Date: Tuesday, March 29, 2011, 6:20 AM
Jeff & Josey,
HI! HOW ARE YOU, YOUR FAMILY, and THE FINE PEOPLE AT TREATS FOR THE
TROOPS DOING? I HOPE THIS LETTER FINDS YOU ALL WELL! (I hope your Grandaughter
is feeling better and back in to "EVERYTHING" and being spoiled
by your husband - ha ha)
I WANT TO TAKE THE TIME OUT TO SAY "THANK YOU VERY MUCH" FOR
YOUR UNBELIEVABLE CARE PACKAGE - I CAN'T EXPRESS HOW MUCH I REALLY APPRECIATE
ALL OF THE MONEY & TIME YOU PUT INTO GETTING THESE THINGS TOGETHER
and GETTING THEM TO ME - WOW!!
"BY FAR THIS IS THE BEST CARE PACKAGE I HAVE EVER RECEIVED"!
YOU HAVE ALL OF MY CRAVINGS FROM BACK HOME INSIDE. ha ha
This is one of the MANY reasons why I serve this GREAT NATION OF OURS
and WHY I'M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN BECAUSE WE HAVE PEOPLE LIKE YOU
WHO STILL VALUE DOING SPECIAL THINGS FOR US LIKE THE OLD DAYS! I AM
A HISTORY, DISCOVERY, & MILITARY CHANNEL BUFF and I LOVE LOOKING
AT OLD FOOTAGE OF THE GUYS GETTING CARE PACKAGES FROM BACK HOME - IT'S
LIKE THEY ARE KIDS AT A CHRISTMAS TREE ALL OVER AGAIN - THIS WAS MY
EXPRESSION TODAY WHEN I OPEN YOUR CARE PACKAGE, I COULDN'T BELIEVE MY
EYES. ha ha
Well the weather is breaking here, already in the 90's. This means it's
gonna be another SCORCHING summer. The threat level & frequency
of attacks will go back up to because now a lot of the insurgents will
come down from their hideouts in the mountains and increase their attacks.
In fact, just two days ago a 26 year old female was killed at the main
base in Kandahar from a rocket attack - so sad because I saw her about
3 months ago when I was there on my way here - i'm only 25 miles or
so from the main base in Kandahar - so VERY CLOSE!
I know we are in your prayers - I will do my best to stay safe and make
it back to my family.
I know it's hectic back there and especially with the economy still
struggling - I hope you all are able to weather the storm and continue
to make your lives better.
Again, I want to say THANK YOU, YOUR FAMILY, and TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
SO MUCH FOR CARING ENOUGH TO SEND SUCH A WONDERFUL CARE PACKAGE - ALL
OF THE ITEMS WILL BE ENJOYED FOR SURE.
YOU ALL ARE IN OUR PRAYERS - Take Care,
Jimmie
Subject: RE: Care Package
Date: Tue, 8 Mar 2011 05:15:54 -0500
Josey,
Hi. It's NICE 2 hear from you. O don't worry that you're just emailing
me especially since your Grandaughter was in the hospital. Please send
my GET WELL SOON WISHES TO HER and HER MOM. I'm not sure of her age
but I HOPE SHE'S BACK TO NORMAL and INTO EVERYTHING VERY SOON. ha ha
I want to take the time out to say THANK YOU, YOUR FAMILY, and TEAM
FOR ALL OF YOUR SUPPORT, WELL WISHES, and GIFTS!
No problem me and my fellow airman are here in high spirits and we LOVE
DEFENDING OUR GREAT NATION AGAINST FOREIGN and DOMESTIC THREATS 24/7
365.
WE ARE THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AND WE STAND BY OUR OATH AND COMMITMENT
TO OUR GREAT NATION.
OK I will look out for the care package.
Again, I wish a SPEEDY RECOVERY FOR YOUR GRANDAUGHTER!
GOODLUCK, HEALTH, and SAFETY TO YOU and YOUR FAMILY!
Take Care,
Jimmie
This card from Colleen received 3/24/11
From: Colleen
Hollis
Subject: Troop_Request
Date: Sunday, January 30, 2011, 6:07 AM
Hello,
We have a unit of Air Advisors stationed at Shindand Air Base (Afghanistan) and would love your support. The base is pretty much bare bones with only one hot meal a day
From: John Elmer Mendoza
Subject: Re: Treats for the troops
Date: Wednesday, January 26, 2011, 7:59 AM
In behalf of my crew, I'd like to extend our gratitude to "Treats for the troops". This will really help out our mission in Afghanistan. Thanks for all the support that you give our fellow service members.. Below is my address:
From: John Elmer Mendoza
Subject: Treats for the troops
To: JOSEY@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Sunday, January 23, 2011, 2:20 PM
Hello Treats for the troops,
I am a US Airforce personnel currently deployed to afghanistan. My teams'
primary mission is to collect blood/platelet units from different US
personnel
deployed in my base. We support the base and nearby bases by forwarding
them the
units we collect. The units are used to treat individuals, to stop bleeding,
and
replace any blood loss in their system.
We are currently running low on our snacks and drinks for our donors.
We
usually give our donors snacks and beverages to replenish their blood
supply
from the donation.
I was wondering if your
agency can help us with this or refer us to the
right point of contact for this situation.
Thank you very much!
v/r,
Sgt Mendoza
From: Kennedy, Cameron S
SGT USA USA TF Tigershark
Subject: Troop_Request (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Monday, January 24, 2011, 6:13 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Hello, my name is SGT Kennedy
and I am currently deployed to
Afghanistan. I was using the search engine google and found this web
page. My company accepts anything that is given. Some of the Morale
of
the troops is low, as so is mine. Getting a care package from home means
more than buying something that is overpriced at the small PX that we
have. Some things you can find but others you can't.
From: Thurman Purdiman Jr
Subject: Re: E-mail requesting support
To: "josey@treatsforthetroops.us"
Date: Tuesday, January 25, 2011, 7:42 AM
Josey,
I hope this e-mail finds you well on this 11th day of Jan, 2011. I caught
sight of your webpage and took interest. I am in support of 210 Marines
recently assigned to the Country of Afghanistan for the next 7 months.
I would appreciate anything you can do to make their lives a little
easier. Organizations such as yours are a blessing. Have a wonderful
day. I am not sure when i will be able to check my personal e-mail again
but I will try soon.
Josey,
Below address has been confirmed as accurate. Please disregard any other
address you may have. The guys out here really appreciate the support
from home. I cannot speak for all of them but i can for 230 of them.
We appreciate you.
From Year 2010
From: Cooke, James R CPT
To: Josey
Date: Thursday, December 23, 2010, 5:33 AM
Josey and Jeff,
We received the Christmas
package yesterday. Thanks so much. Please pass my
thanks on to the kids at Northway.
CPT Cooke
From: Cooke, James R CPT
Date: Sunday, November 28, 2010, 7:58 AM
Josey and Jeff,
I received the 50lbs of candy today. Wow! I think there was
something for everyone in that box.
Please thank Ms. Dickerson's class for the cards and Ms. Shari
O'Connor for the note.
Thanks so much for the continued support.
CPT Cooke
From: Cooke, James R CPT USA
To: "'josey@treatsforthetroops.us
Date: Tuesday, October 19, 2010, 12:26 PM
Josey and Jeff,
I received your package yesterday and was highly impressed with
the contents.
Thanks so much for the Magic Jacks and all the snacks. Hopefully
you've been able to use a Magic Jack yourself to understand how important
they are to all the Soldiers here. We have been blessed to be on a FOB that has
a pretty decent standard of living. It is rather large and most of the
guys have no transportation so being able to call home to family and friends
from their rooms is not only a morale boost but a timesaver.
I have given our Chaplain the DVDs. Right now I'm helping him
build a "sanctuary" for the Soldiers.
We'll be here all year so if you need a unit to support, we will
gladly accept care packages. Treats For The Troops is an awesome organization
so please pass my thanks on to all the staff and volunteers.
Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts. I look forward to
hearing from Ms. Martinez soon. If you need anything from me, please ask and I
will help you in any way I can.
Respectfully,
CPT JAMES COOKE
From: Stoddard, Sean G SSG USA
Subject: RE: Troop_Request (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Sunday, December 19, 2010, 1:56 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Hi Josey,
Its sure is the same! Thanks
again for your support and Merry Christmas
from Afghanistan.
Sean
Date: Saturday, December 18, 2010, 1:39 AM
Anything you can send would
be great.
Our AFCC team has 9 people (but if you could send a few more, we'd like
to surprise the US military gate guards when we drive through our gate
after we pick up the packages).
Thanks,
Lt Col Bradley
Date: Friday, December 17, 2010, 8:53 AM
Ma'am,
I am a New York Guardsman and the Deputy Commander for a 9-person shop
deployed to the desert" until at least April.
My unit is not made up of Guardsmen (I'm the loner!), but I would appreciate
finding out more about your organization and the possibility of a one-time
package delivery for our small unit. All of them are married or separated
from their girlfriends, with the upcoming holiday (and St. Valentine's
Day!) coming.
Thank you,
Lt Col John "Omar" Bradley
From: Cooke, James
R CPT
Date: Sunday, November 28, 2010, 7:58 AM
Josey and Jeff,
I received the 50lbs of candy
today. Wow! I think there was something for
everyone in that box.
Please thank Ms. Dickerson's
class for the cards and Ms. Shari O'Connor for
the note.
Thanks so much for the continued support.
CPT Cooke
Subject: Re: Request
for Treats for Troops
Date: Friday, November 26, 2010, 10:02 AM
Hello Josey,
I received the mongo box of candy! It was fantastic, and believe it or not, was almost completely gone in less than a day (I put out ziploc baggies and everyone was able to pick their favorite treats. The guys in my group were thrilled with the variety and even took some of the toothbrushes.
Please check out Corbinistan.com where I have thank Treats for Troops and listed the website so, hopefully, donations will make their way to you.
Thank you again; the candy really made the day for many soldiers.
Best regards,
SGT Corbin
11/10/2010
Dear Jeff and Josey Dorr,
I received the monstrous
box you sent and distributed the contents. This
was a huge surprise, and the box was filled to the brim of all the great
stuff from home. On behalf of the United States Forces-Afghanistan
Detachment West, I would like extend my gratitude at your generous
donation for the cause supporting our service members at war here in
the
region.
I cannot adequately express
in words the appreciation our service
members have for the generous donation you graciously provided for
them. To say that it was definitely a morale booster for the section
is
an understatement. However, you have done far more with this donation
for our troops than provide them the temporary comfort of a little slice
of home. You have, in fact, helped reassure our service members that
their countrymen remain behind them in their enduring efforts to bring
freedom and peace to a war-torn region. With the belief that thoughtful
support from donors like you provide to inspire us, we are sure that
we
will achieve all our aims.
I once again thank you for the selfless interest that you have shown
in
our cause and hope that this alliance of Patriots continues further.
In short, you will truly never know just how much your love means to us.
Sincerely,
Major Matt Jenkins and the Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines of
USFOR-A Detachment West
Herat, Afghanistan
October 18, 2010
Josey and Jeff,
I received your package yesterday
and was highly impressed with the contents.
Thanks so much for the Magic Jacks and all the snacks. Hopefully you've
been
able to use a Magic Jack yourself to understand how important they are
to all
the Soldiers here. We have been blessed to be on a FOB that has a pretty
decent standard of living. It is rather large and most of the guys have
no
transportation so being able to call home to family and friends from
their
rooms is not only a morale boost but a timesaver.
I have given our Chaplain
the DVDs. Right now I'm helping him build a
"sanctuary" for the Soldiers.
We'll be here all year so
if you need a unit to support, we will gladly accept
care packages. Treats For The Troops is an awesome organization so please
pass
my thanks on to all the staff and volunteers.
Thank you for keeping us
in your thoughts. I look forward to hearing from Ms.
Martinez soon. If you need anything from me, please ask and I will help
you in
any way I can.
Respectfully,
CPT JAMES COOKE
Subject: Request for Treats
for Troops
To: josey@treatsforthetroops.us
Date: Thursday, October 28, 2010, 11:20 AM
Hello,
My name is SGT Andre Corbin and I am deployed to Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan until February of 2011 and am hoping to receive some care packages to share with my soldiers (there are about 10 of us).
Items such as protein bars,
beef jerky, raw almonds/nuts, and healthy snacks
would be fantastic!
Thank you very much for your support.
Best regards,
SGT Corbin
A letter mailed to us on October 5, 2010 From Ryan Fitzpatrick, SPC
Greetings from Afghanistan! I wanted to send you a little note to let you know that we received the mail you sent. It is hard to put into workds the gratitude that is felt by us all. Receiveing mail from a stranger to let us know that people still care is an awesome feeling. I want to say thank you for your time, money and kind spirit...
From: Armstead, Richard J II SFC MIL USA FORSCOM
Date: Tuesday, June 8, 2010, 5:54 AM
Yes ma'am,
I got the box yesterday and We saw our Iraqi counterparts today. They were thrilled and were passing the gifts out and will continue till they are gone. Thank You so much. We are 30 days away from leaving and I am so excited. We all can't wait to get home to our love ones. I wanted to thank you and your organization again for all that you did for us and the Iraqi people. Please take care and God Bless you
Doc Armstead
From: Barnette, Michael
P CPT MIL USA FORSCOM <michael.p.barnette@us.army.mil>
Subject: Chaplain Update
Date: Tuesday, June 8, 2010, 4:27 AM
Greetings from Iraq,
Many weeks have passed since I last sent out a wide spread update on our efforts here in Iraq. I wanted to let you know how much we have appreciated the donations you have sent and continue to send to us here. Our soldiers are still reaping the benefit from your thoughtfulness and giving and I appreciate that.
I also wanted to let you know that your donations become even more vital to our people in the coming months as we transition here at our location. With the drawdown in Iraq beginning soon we will also see less support by way of any PX facililtites, dining facilities will close at the smaller locations like ours, and some of the "luxuries" will be leaving (.i.e. laundry, MWR facilities, etc).
Th hygiene, snacks, entertainment, and every other gift you send will become even more valuable to our people. I assure you, what you send we will get it to our soldiers. Your donations are used for the purpose they are sent, and gratefully.
I have attached a few pictures from a recent Humanitarian Assistance Mission we conducted in our area. We had particular items such as toys, clothes, and food that were donated to be given to the people. My Assistant and I, along with a security force of our soldiers, visited a nearby village of extremely poor people where we were able to pass out the clothes and toys to the children and adults. It is a starke reminder of the blessings we enjoy as Americans, in contrast to the life many of these people have become accustomed to over here. Hopefully, in the years to come, more Iraqi citizens will benefit from a free democratic society. That is our hope.
God bless you all,
CH (CPT) Michael P. Barnette
USA
1-3 BSTB
Psalm 37:4
From: Ellis, Tina M PFC USA
USA TF Rakkasan S1
Subject: RE: HAPPY EASTER
Date: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 11:55 PM
Hey Josey and friends sorry
I have not gotten to you I was actually sent
out to Germany due to a kidney problem while I was gone I was informand
that the packeages have arrived im now back and last night we unpacked
them and I gotta say we all loved them and wanna say thank you and we
all appreciate it
PFC Ellis, Tina & TF Rakkasan
From: Alexander, Theiring R CPT MIL USA USA USARCENT
Subject: [UNCLASSIFIED / NONE] RE: HAPPY EASTER
Date: Tuesday, April 6, 2010, 2:19 AM
UNCLASSIFIED / NONE
Thank you dear friend. Happy Resurrection/Easter season. Spring is in
the air. Thank you for the great and lovely unwavering support to the
troops and families.
CH Alexander
From: Brent Pietila
Subject: Re: Box on the Way!
Date: Wednesday, March 31, 2010, 2:16 PM
Hey Josey, how are you? Your package has been recieved, thanks so much!!
The guys in the unit are thankful as well!! Thanks again for your support
from home!! Take care, Brent
From: Acosta, Julia M PFC USA 419th MCB HHD
Date: Monday, March 29, 2010, 6:50 AM
Clssification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Josey,
We received your Easter care package. Thank you for all of the goodies
and thank the children for the beautiful cards. They obviously put a
lot
of effort and care into them. After reading the cards, we hanged them
in
the common area for everyone to see. My favorite card reads, "Dear
Soldier, I hope you win." How cute is that? Well, of all the awesome
stuff you sent, I think the gum was the biggest hit. Apparently,
Soldiers love gum.
Thank you.
Julia M. Acosta
"RENEGADES"
-----Original Message-----
From: Acosta, Julia M PFC USA 419th MCB HHD
Sent: Saturday, March 13, 2010 4:31 PM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Dear Josey,
We received your package. WOW! I divided the goodies into gift
bags for the lower Enlisted and distributed the large heart boxes of
chocolate to each section. As I write this, I am happily buzzed on
marshmallow Peeps and Russell Stover Chocolates. So, thank you for that! I don't
know if this is purely coincidental, but I was born and raised in
Albany, NY--Loudonville and Latham to be specific. I graduated from
Shaker High School and attended Russell Sage College and SUNY Albany. Thank
you and all the awesome Walgreen's customers so much.
Sincerey,
PFC Julia Acosta
Jeff Mitchell
07 Apr 2010:
I am a Battalion Chaplain serving with Airborne Combat Engineers from Fort Bragg, NC. Sending care packages is a wonderful way to lift the morale of my soldiers. When you send care packages I disperse what you send me to my entire battalion. We have soldiers serving in dangerous situations in remote Forward Operating Bases and greatly appreciate your support. Anything that you send to me will be used to lift the morale of many! Thank you for what you do to support our great military!
Attached is a picture of me leading a platoon in prayer just before going out on a mission.
Thanks so much for your support of our troops! Specific things that go over really well to lift the morale of my soldiers are new or used DVDs and music CDs, dartboards and darts for office / living areas, recreational equipment and board games, Sunscreen, guitar strings, snack food, tobacco products, and toiletry items. Our soldiers serve in a remote location and we do not have access to a post exchange to purchase basic supplies. As we interact with the Afghan population in on our missions it would be really great to be able to provide the Afghan children with basic school supplies such as pencils and composite notebooks, soccer balls and other toys, and candy. Our sucess in Afghanistan depends heavily on the relationships we build with the Afghan nationals!
v/r,
Chaplain (CPT) Jeff Mitchell
From: Acosta, Julia M PFC
USA 419th MCB HHD
Subject: RE: FW: Thanks (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 7:08 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Dear Josey,
I received a 2nd box loaded
with toiletries. I organized the supplies by
type and divided them into boy bags and girl bags. There were enough
bags for all the lower Enlisted Soldiers. Everyone was happy about the
nail kits and shaving products. Thank you so much. All the males will
be
clean shaven and deodorized--Yippy!
Sincerely,
PFC Julia Acosta
From: Ford, Robert C SFC
MIL USA FORSCOM
Subject: Re: Box on the Way!
Date: Monday, March 15, 2010, 4:29 AM
Thank you all for all you do for me and the guy's. The boxes have all made it and every body enjoys everything that is sent. I don't really know what to say sometimes, but the most important thing I can say is Thank You from the bottom of my heart. You don't know how good it makes me fill to receive the boxes and be able to share the joy with the guy's. You are very special people and the lord will really bless you for all you do for all the soldiers like me.
From: Acosta, Julia M PFC
USA 419th MCB HHD
Sent: Saturday, March 13, 2010 4:31 PM
To: Acosta, Julia M PFC USA 419th MCB HHD
Subject: Thanks (UNCLASSIFIED)
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: FOUO
Dear Josey,
We received your package. WOW! I divided the goodies into gift bags for the lower Enlisted and distributed the large heart boxes of chocolate to each section. As I write this, I am happily buzzed on marshmallow Peeps and Russell Stover Chocolates. So, thank you for that! I don't know if this is purely coincidental, but I was born and raised in Albany, NY -- Loudonville and Latham to be specific. I graduated from Shaker High School and attended Russell Sage College and SUNY Albany. Thank you and all the awesome Walgreen's customers so much.
Sincerey,
PFC Julia Acosta
From: Stone, Charles J CPT
USA USF-I 49th MP BDE/MPBD
To: "josey@treatsforthetroops.us" <josey@treatsforthetroops.us>
Date: Monday, March 8, 2010, 1:56 AM
Dear Treats for Troops Volunteers,
I want to convey my deepest appreciation for your support to the troops of the 49th Military Police Brigade. Your packages have been sent all over the battlefield here in Iraq. We have also sent many of your boxes to others here at the Victory Base Complex. The items are very helpful here as both useful and small reminders of home.
Thank you very much.
v/r
CPT Charles Stone
From: Cobb, Richard R Jr 1LT MIL USA USAREUR 7A
Subject: Re: CHRISTMAS BOX
Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008, 2:03 AM
hi...
Sorry to hear about you're storms. thats really unfortunate. Its
incredible that you continue to put so many other people in front of
yourself.
Thank you again for the work, support and contributions you all make
over there.
Again, it really matters for the Soldiers. I got the box of goodies.
Its great.
I havent given it out quite yet... I'm waiting for a time we get to
gather
around. I'll be sure they know who its from and what you all went through
to get it
to us. Thank you again very very much.
Hope you have a GREAT holiday season.
God Bless
RJ
From: Rivera, Pedro A USA SFC USA JPOTF
Subject: RE: CHRISTMAS BOX
Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2008, 3:34 AM
Almost forgot, between my Soldiers and the Air Men, Sailors and Marines
who work within my command, we were able to eat all the candy you sent
us a few weeks ago. Now it's time to go to the dentist and the Gym!!!
Pedro.
From: Rivera, Pedro A USA SFC USA JPOTF
Subject: RE: CHRISTMAS BOX
Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2008, 3:31 AM
First of all thank you so much for your continuous support. The Soldiers
in my team are forever grateful for your kind gestures. Second, please
express our gratitude to all of those sponsors/supporters for their
nice
gifts and donations. Let them know that because of people like you and
them, we are reminded of the reasons for which we serve this great Nation.
As far as the weather situation, my prayers are with you and your town.
I hope it gets resolved very soon. Over here the weather is a bit cold
at night (aprox. 65f). I realize that for you this sounds great, but
comparing the weather here a few months ago (130+ f), it is a big change
for us to adjust to.
Again, thanks a million for your great contributions. May God bless
you
and your loved ones forever.
Pedro
V/R
PEDRO A. RIVERA
SFC, USA
JPOTF MPS OIC
From: Bowden LT Jennifer D (AA MWSS H&S CHAPLAIN)
Subject: RE: CarePackage
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2008, 7:51 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Greetings, Josey and Jeff,
You'll be receiving more thank yous. However, I wanted to be the first
to thank you SO much for the wonderful box of candy and tooth goodies
you sent us! I've taken pictures of the Marines and Sailors attacking
the candy. We're trying to get it into goodie bags to distribute- but,
it's going quicker than we can tie the bags. We finally handed the bags
out for the Marines and Sailors to fill. :) You greatly enhanced morale
within the unit. THANK YOU!! When you have a moment- please check out
our 'unofficial' 273 website. The address is: www.mwss273.com.
Thank you again! Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Jen
V/R,
LT Jennifer D. Bowden, CHC, USN
MWSS-273, Chaplain
From: Cobb, Richard R Jr 1LT MIL USA USAREUR 7A
Subject: Re: HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Date: Friday, December 5, 2008, 6:47 AM
Hi!
Thanks for the thoughts and prayers, again. My platoon had a special
dinner
together for the Soldiers to make sure they're havin a good holiday.
It was
nice. We are all doing very well and moving along with our mission.
I just came back from Baghdad and saw the package you sent with all
the candy
and dental supplies. Love it. thanks again. I'm in the middle of
distributing that all out to the Soldiers. They're obviously taking
the
candy quicker then the dental stuff, but they are taking it. To be expected
i
suppose.
I have to finish up an investigation, but i want to thank you again
for doing
what you do. It is very appreciated over here.
Richard Cobb
1LT, MP
Platoon Leader
From: Bowden LT Jennifer D (AA MWSS H&S CHAPLAIN)
Date: Sunday, November 30, 2008, 4:20 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Hello Josey and Jeff,
Thank you very much for your
support! Our Marines and Sailors are so
thankful to know they're remembered.
Have a great day!
V/R,
LT Jennifer D. Bowden, CHC, USN
MWSS-273, Chaplain
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Subject: RE: HALLOWEEN CANDY
Date: Monday, November 24, 2008, 1:49 AM
Dear Josey: Hey there...always a pleasure to hear from you. I am doing
well and I did excellent on my inspections. There was only one area
where I have to work on a little. I cannot believe how much candy was
collected. That is a whole lot of sugar. Thanks for sending
toothbrushes with the candy. That is very thoughtful of you. I hope
you all have a very nice Thankgiving. My wifes Mother and Father are
travelling up to Virginia from North Carolina to be with my wife and
the
boys for Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for that. I did not want her
to be alone during Thanksgiving. That would break my heart. Take care
and I will chat with you again soon.
V/R
SSG DANNY LINDSEY
6TH TRANS BN S-2 NCOIC
PHYSICAL SECURITY MANAGER
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA
SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 9:26 AM
Dear Josey: I got
a huge box full of candies and cookies today. OH
MY...it was so full of chocolate and delicious cookies. I put out a
big
bowl and filled it full of candy and everyone who comes in has been
digging in the bowl for a few pieces of candy. Definitely a
big hit.
THANK YOU SO MUCH. I hope everyone there is doing well.
We are all
doing good here. What are your plans for Thanksgiving? I hope you have
a wonderful Thanksgiving. I will keep in touch. God Bless you!!!
V/R
SSG DANNY LINDSEY
6TH TRANS BN S-2 NCOIC
PHYSICAL SECURITY MANAGER
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA
SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Subject: RE: daily harvest
Date: Friday, November 14, 2008, 6:10 AM
Dear Josey: How are you doing
these days? I am doing fine and trying to stay
busy most of the time. I hope all is well with you and your family.
Are you
ready for the busy Holiday season that is fast approaching? I know this
may
seem shocking but I will be glad when it is over because it will be
a little
depressing to be away from my family during this time of the year especially.
I
am just so ready for the new year to get here. What is going on in your
neck of
the woods? Please tell Louie that I said Hello and I hope he is doing
well.
Please take care and I will chat with you again soon.
V/R
SSG DANNY LINDSEY
6TH TRANS BN S-2 NCOIC
PHYSICAL SECURITY MANAGER
From: Cobb, Richard R Jr
2LT MIL USA USAREUR 7A
Date: Monday, November 10, 2008, 1:58 AM
I GOT THE PACKAGE... i'm sooooooooooo sorry i didnt respond sooner. We have been swamped with mission and administrative stuff. My Soldiers had a Halloween BBQ and i just put the box by the condements... i never saw any left over.... i take it they loved it. So again, on behalf of all my Soldiers... thank you very very much for your support and contribution. Its greatly felt over here. I wish you could have seen their faces when i brought the huge box of candy to them. Moral is good! Thanks again. God bless RJ (AKA, 2LT Cobb
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Subject: RE: HALLOWEEN BOX
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2008, 1:58 AM
Dear Josey: I just wanted to let you know that we got your box yesterday.
Boy was it ever filled with wonderful and delicious things.
Especially the caramel apples. Those went over real well.
I cut mine open and shared it with another Soldier because they were so big.
The chocolate candy...OH MY GOSH...there was so much of it.
We are making little Halloween bags full of candy and we are going to try and get
people to come to our tent on Halloween and get some candy even if they have no costume.
What are your plans for Halloween? THANK YOU SO MUCH for what you do for us over here.
It really means a lot.
I wish you and your family and friends a very Happy and Blessed Holiday season.
V/R SSG DANNY LINDSEY
6TH TRANS BN S-2 NCOIC
PHYSICAL SECURITY MANAGER
9/6/08 This wasn't an email but a letter we just received.
From: Cobb, Richard R Jr 2LT MIL USA USAREUR 7A
Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2008, 12:52 AM
Hello We got your boxes. they were great. I put them in the Soldier common area and it was gone within a matter of a day. They keep askin me who i get these packages from and i tell them about your organization. They love ya. We all greatly appreciate what you do for us. Its a big relief getting items and candy we dont get all that much of over here. Its even better being reminded of who we have back home carin for us. Thank you again so very much and God bless you for your efforts helping my Soldiers and I. Time to get back to work. thanks again. 2LT Cobb
From: gary h.
Subject: Your Package
Date: Sunday, August 31, 2008, 6:24 AM
Josey,
Thank you so very much for your wonderful package you sent. I hope we can be friends even after I leave Iraq. God bless you and your family.
Gary
7/26/08
From: Jamie Hildreth
Subject: RE: CARE PACKAGE
Date: Saturday, July 26, 2008, 1:49 AM
Good morning, well...it's probably more like the middle of the night there. I always forget the time zones. I wanted to send a quick e-mail to let you know the package arrived. When I went to the post office to check the mail all the people there were talking about the box. Normally when people receive packages they are relatively small, this one was huge. I smiled at the guys at the post office and told them I would bring them some goodies from the box. When I got back to the mortuary I had to have help to get it out of the HMMWV. We brought it into the main office of the mortuary and everyone was standing around it just looking at it. It was kind of like a present you don't want to open for a little while. Once the moment passed I brandished a pair of scissors and opened the box. Again, there was a pause where everyone was staring at the box. I think at that point it was more of a selfless act; nobody wanted to take away from anyone else being the first to see what was inside. We all moved at the same time, slowly lifting the flaps of the box until we saw what was inside. Instantly it turned into bright faces and chatter while people dug in and gathered what they wanted. We took most of the sweets and edible stuff and put it in our community area or break room. That way everyone could enjoy it, including visitors. We split up the soaps and set the drawings aside. Once we had gone through the box (with me squirreling stuff away for the post office guys) we put everything where it needed to be and sat in the break room. Several people began eating the sweets while Shaw and I read the cards to everyone, showing off the pictures to go with each one. It truly was a magical moment. I can't tell you how happy everyone was. The next day I put the goodies I had squirreled away into a smaller box and brought it to the post office. I shared with the people there and it was much the same experience. I gave them a couple of the cards as well, to hang up in the small break area in the back of the post office, to help make it a little more cheerful. Your care package went a long way and I thank you, we all thank you for the support you gave us. In response to your last e-mail, I am sorry to hear about the accident, more so that you aren't able to enjoy the things you once were. Hopefully you will find a happy medium somewhere that will bring you the same kind of joy. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, even if it isn't clear to us at the time what that reason is. You have put smiles in the hearts of many people and we appreciate you. Thank you, PFC Hildreth, Jamie E. Mortuary Affairs
7/16/08
Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2008, 12:05 AM
From: Jamie Hildreth
Good morning! I was pleasantly surprised this morning by your e-mail.
Sometimes you get down because there are so many negative things going
on that you forget all the wonderful reasons that make you keep going.
I
can't wait to see the drawings and pictures from the children. I will
hang them up all over the mortuary and hopefully it will make it a
little more cheeful in here. The walls are all a sandy-yellow color,
which in other circumstances might be calming, but in the desert, when
the only amount of color you ever see is the sunburned red of skin from
being outside too long, the last thing you want to do is come home to
the same blank and lifeless walls. Of course, none of the goodies will
go uncherished. I appreciate all the support you and yours are giving
us. It really does make a difference in the difficult setting we are
in.
I thought you might like to know a little about our group here. Our
fearless leader, Ssg Rodriguez is from Puerto Rico and has an accent
that sometimes leaves you standing with a dumb look on your face as
you
try and process what he's trying to say. He has a wife and two small
children back home. He often tells me how much he misses his chlidren.
That's another reason I think the drawings will help. He has been my
squad leader since I got to the unit nearly 2 years ago. We've been
deployed together once before and he's one of the sweetest, most
considerate men you'll ever meet. Our fearless leader in
assistance...assitant fearless leader?...well...you know what I
mean....Sgt Villanueva. He's also from Puerto Rico. I don't know him
nearly as well. He just came to our squad right before we deployed and
he's the kind of man that pretty much stays to himself. He has good
intentions and tries to help whenever there's anything to be done. I'm
sure by the end of the deployment I'll know him a lot better. Next we
have Spc Foster. He's married with two small children as well. He isn't
out here with us at the moment because he had a death in the family
and
had to go home to be with his family. He gets back at the end of this
month. There's Spc Lytle, he's a very loud and awesome guy. He's
won
soldier of the quarter and I am sure if we were back home he'd be able
to get soldier of the year. He's always the first to jump up and say
"me" when anyone asks for a volunteer no matter the task.
He's
married
with a newborn back home. The most adorable little boy! Pfc Soto is
another from Puerto Rico...I'm not sure why there are so many in the
mortuary affairs units...but there are...he starts out quiet and
reserved but once you get to know him he opens up and starts acting
more
relaxed, and crazy. He just got to the unit a couple of months ago so
we
all treat him like the baby of the group. Pfc Cobb is another loud and
outgoing guy. He is the brawn of the group for sure. He's probably
somewhere around 6'3 or so. He used to be a truck driver and loves to
tell stories about things he's done and places he's been. He's been
deployed before as well and we'll sit around listening to tales of how
things used to be. He's not married but has several school aged
children. Spc Shaw is the other female, besides myself. She's the most
outrageous and outgoing person I've ever met. She has absolutely no
shame and loves to see if she can shock people. She's the kind of person
you would expect to see jumping out of airplanes, or or climbing
mountains so she can repell off them. I went through AIT (advanced
individual training...our job school) with her. She and I hit it off
right away and have remained friends since then. She doesn't have any
children but does have a significant other. Lastly there's me. I am
the
elder of the bunch, but not by much. We are all somewhere in our 20s.
It's a good spread of ages. I am from Texas and have no children. I
am
much more reserved than anyone else in the group. Often times you'll
find me tucked away reading a book, working a brain teaser or working
on
the computer. I am currently taking college classes trying to get my
bachelor's degree in criminal justice. My dream is to become a crime
scene investigator. I'll get there eventually!
That's the quick down and dirty about us here. I've included a group
picture taken just outside the mortuary. You can see the quirkiness
in
each of the people in it. Thank you again for all you do.
Pfc Jamie E. Hildreth
Mortuary Affairs
These emails are from the unit based at same camp as Josey’s nephew
He went back (1/2009), serving as a Medic
" We only have about 38 days left so i dont know if your packages being sent out now would even make it to us. We have all appreciated the great boxes of stuff that you have sent and yes even the coffee went quick. I do have a request though from most that you send the recipe on how to make those pretzels. Everyone loves those.... It was the only time i had a hard time making people leave my office. Usually they cant get out fast enough. hehe. It's a compliment to me...
FROM YEAR 2007
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 06 Jan 2007 14:36:19 -0600
Subject: Re: Fwd: FW: Happy New Year!
Hey aunt Josey.
Sorry it took me so long to write back. Everythings going ok here. Im
in Texas now. I should be back in Bagdad by the 15th of January. Happy
New Year to you and the family. God is an awsome God, he sent you to me.
Thanx again aunty. Will talk to you later.
Love
CHRIS
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2007 15:05:15 +0300
Subject: Re: Fwd: Thomas Kinkade
Hey aunt Josey. I'm back in Bagdad now... Everybodys almost back to normal, which is good. How are you and the family? Good I hope. Thanx so much for emailing me while I go through so much. I love you so much. This is a cool email, I like it. Talk with you later. Bye.
Love
CHRIS
Anyway thank everyone who donated their time and
effort to make us a little more comfortable and just know you all made
a difference.
Thank You From Charlie Company 704th SB(Support Battalion)
And thank you from just me.... Pat "
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: PREZTALS
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Well, let's see... Yep they are medical just like us and there are females. Not all here yet but, most are and a lot of females. Always are with this type of unit. Anyway, I am still going to be at Ft Leavenworth and Mom has the address. I probably will be home around end of July timeframe. Just tentatively... pat
Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2006 01:08:12 -0700
(PDT)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: COOKIES , COOKIES, AND MORE COOKIES
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
NEWS FLASH: We have had our end date extented until the 1st of NOV...
We would enjoy cookies!!!!
Date: Tue, 31 Oct 2006 04:59:11 -0800 (PST)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: HAPPY HALLOWEEN
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Well, Thank You very much! Actually the boxes got here believe it or not today! Incredible. Tell everyone that we all say thank you. We had a great Halloween. Two of the boxes got here one coffee and the other was the goodies. I think you said there was another? well, it should be here soon as well. Thank you again and talk to you soon
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2006 04:04:55 -0700
(PDT)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: CHECKING
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Well, as far as us needing stuff, we are all pretty good at this point.
We only have about 38 days left so i dont know if your packages being
sent out now would even make it to us. We have all appreciated the great
boxes of stuff that you have sent and yes even the coffee went quick.
I do have a request though from most that you send the recipe on how to
make those pretzels. Everyone loves those.... It was the only time i had
a hard time making people leave my office. Usually they cant get out fast
enough. hehe. It's a compliment to me... Anyway I loved the pics of the
wedding and wish I could have been there. I think I will be come home
in the summer and we'll have to work something out with everyone and have
a get together.
Anyway thank everyone who donated their time and effort to make us a little
more comfortable and just know you all made a difference.
Thank You From Charlie Company 704th SB(Support Battalion)
And thank you from just me.... Pat
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2006 18:13:13 -0700 (PDT)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: CHECKING
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
I think the new unit coming in is going to be 1st armored div. I don't know who my replacement is exactly yet but, they should be coming in anytime now.I think some are due in by the 17 of this month. The rest should filter in after. I will get you a name and their address which shouldn't be too different from ours now. I think they would love you all for that. ... Pat
patrick mackey wrote:
I got a name for my replacement here if you all are still going to send stuff.
SGT Chris
Thank God for him.... I can come home now! Anyway we all thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the stuff you sent to us. We are all very appreciative since a lot of the stuff were things we could not get here and generally take for granted that we can just go to the store and get whatever whenever. So please thank everyone again for all they did. I will see you all soon probably this summer. Bye for now
These emails are from the unit based at this camp now
6/1/07
Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2006 22:10:52 -0700
(PDT)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: Hello
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
I am safe and yea it was bad going home and then coming back but, it's ok only a few more months. We should start getting ready to come home in September. I think we will be back in Oct. but, at the least we should be home by Thanksgiving. As far as running low on stuff not really. I think we are all good for the time being. Phone cards are always a hit and anything else you already have will still get used I am sure of that. Everyone is so thankful for you and your group there. I am sending the camera back this week so you should have some pictures to see of all the people here that have enjoyed your pretzels as well as the stuff you all have sent. I will also take more with my digital and email them when I get time. OK it's back to work for me now... Pat...
Hey aunt Josey, sorry it’s taking me so long to mail you. Everything is kind of crazy out here now. The threat level is up, so security measures are up, and at times we can’t even get to the computer center because it is so crowded. And with this heat computers are breaking left and right. We are on a water blackout now. We can’t even take showers for the next week. Yeah its bad. I know you are praying for me and the troops, believe me we feel your prayers every day. I always get asked have I spoken to aunt Josey lately, and I tell them as soon as we can get a working internet I will. I received one box just three days ago, thanks a lot. Man it made stuff better believe me. Morale is not that good these days. We need a lot of baby wipes and deodorant over here now. Tell everyone I love them and thanks. I know God loves me, he sent you to me. Love you aunt Josey. Bye.
Hey aunt Josey. I received one of the boxes yesterday. Thank you so much. Everything is exactly what everyone needed. God bless you and everyone. We just found out that we might get extended for eighteen months over here, so spirits were a little down. And when your box came, it lifted spirits fast, thanx again. I know God is present everytime I read your email or recieve a package. Continue to pray for us. I love you.
LOVE
CHRIS
Subject: Re: TWO MORE BOXES SHIPPED !!!
Hey Aunt Josey,
You know its always great to hear from you. Every time I get
stressed, and need a break I always check to see if you have mailed.
It gets crazy at times. We get a casualty in (troops,and Iraqi) every
two days about. But other than that its semi-calm. My unit is
actually about half female. We always need some things like toweletries.
The PX runs out of stuff, or doesnt have things. I havent recieved
the other boxes yet, they are more than likely here though. Thank you
and everyone else again. Love you Aunt Josey.
Sincerely,
CHRIS
Subject: Re: HELLO,...........Sgt Mackey"s Aunt
Thank you so much and God bless you. The homemade goodies and coffee will be perfect for now. If you guys want to send extra, and surprise us that will be great also. When Pat gets home, tell him I said thanx for everthing and to contact me as soon as he can. I guess you have a new nephew now. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your friends and family. Again, thank you so very much for everything
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2006 11:27:50 +0300
Subject: Re: HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!!!!
Hey. How are you? Vanilla creamer sounds great, but with sugar cookies. Again thank you and everyone else so much. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. God bless.
LOVE
SGT HART(chris)
From: Chris To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 07 Dec 2006 15:08:54 +0300
Subject: Re: TWO MORE BOXES SHIPPED !!!
Hey aunt Josey,
I actually recieved the first box today. The Battalion is behind on getting
mail out to troops. They have three conex's full of mail. Thank you guys
so,so much. Everybody was so excited when I opened the box. For me it
was a big moral builder, I haven't recieved any mail from anyone accept
you. God bless you aunty! Tell Pat I said hello, and god bless. Thanx
again for your prayers, they are working. I will e-mail you later when
I get a chance. Love you.
Sincerely
CHRIS
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2006 17:11:24 +0300
Subject: Re: TWO MORE BOXES SHIPPED !!!
Hey Aunt Josey,
You know its always great to hear from you. Every time I get stressed,
and need a break I always check to see if you have mailed. It gets crazy
at times. We get a casualty in (troops,and Iraqi) every two days about.
But other than that its semi-calm. My unit is actually about half female.
We always need some things like toweletries. The PX runs out of stuff,
or doesnt have things. I havent recieved the other boxes yet, they are
more than likely here though. Thank you and everyone else again. Love
you Aunt Josey.
Sincerely,
CHRIS
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Dec 2006 16:58:52 +0300
Subject: Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!!!
Merry Christmas aunt Josey. We were on a communications blackout due to death for over a week. I mailed you a letter... Your boxes and emails always lift my spirit. Thanx again aunt Josey. I think its about 90 of us and half men and women. I love you. Have a Very Merry Christmas and a wonderful new year. I will e-mail you from home also.
love
CHRIS
From: Chris
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 16 Dec 2006 14:05:14 +0300
Subject: Re: Just Checking on you .......
Hey Aunt Josey.
It has been very busy here. We are going through a change of command and
have to inventory everything, thats in between doing my job, and taking
in casualties. Im sorry it took so long to write. I recieved 2 more boxes.
It seems as though when the morale of the soldiers are down and they are
overworked, here comes your boxes to brighten things up. Everyone told
me to tell you thank you so much for what you are doing. A few are going
to write a thank you letter to you they said. You already know you are
my serenity. Every one loved the toilettries you sent, that really made
there day. Talk to you later Aunt Josey. I love you very much
Sincerely
CHRIS
Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 06:24:24 -0800 (PST)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
We all thank you so much for the boxes. I received 2 so far. One came
today, perfect timing. Everybody loves the pretzels (of
course) and wants me to give you their addresses so you can send them
to each of them... heehee. Anyway it was like Christmas with so much candy
and treats. We will be coming home FAT. Anyway I/We really thank you and
appreciate it all. More than could be expected. I will talk to you again
soon. Happy Valentines day to you and all. ...
Pat
Date: Wed, 8 Feb 2006 21:14:12 -0800 (PST)
From: patrick mackey
Subject: Re: 2 Boxes
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Hello again, We have 64 people in our company. Both Men and Women. Males
make up the majority, but we have the most numbers of women. I tried to
take a poll of some things they would like and Biore face wash
pads, Ultimate Secret deodorant, Ankle socks sizes prob. 5-8 or 9, and
intuition shaver refills were among the most asked for items.
We all appreciate these little things you all send to us. I thank you
from all of us here. Everyone said how nice this is and to make sure that
everyone there knew they were appreciated.
Pat
From: Lutz, Raymond M USA CW5
USA 310th HRSC
To: Jeff@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Fri, Mar 5, 2010 11:40 pm
UNCLASSIFIED / NONE
Dear Josey, Jeff, Friends and Family and Stephanie:
On behalf of all the troops
in Kuwait that were overjoyed and thrilled
at receiving such a wonderful gift box of treats, THANK YOU!
Although we often receive gift
boxes of treats and other surprises, this
particular shipment was a smashing hit! We all are still devouring what
seems to be an endless mound of stuff we don't need but truly appreciate
having.
Thank you all for your kindness
and care - and from all of us here in
Kuwait, we send our thanx and prayers that you, your families, and those
you care and love are blessed with continued health, happiness, and
success.
Two photos of myself and my
battle buddy (MAJ Don Elliott) "hard at
work" in Iraq.
Hard to believe we held a meeting and no one showed up except us!
After the meeting flopped,
we decided to do a little R&R in two of
Saddam Hussein's lounge chairs.
Last photo is of what is left
of the Presidential Palace in Kabul,
Afghanistan. This particular shot is of the South Wing and is just
about where the 40th Soviet Division Command and Staff housed their
operations officers in 1979-1989. A picture of the Palace in its
original condition from 1978 is also attached.
Now full of bullet, mortar
and tank shelling holes, the Palace is about
ready to crumble.
It was built around 1923.
Warmest regards,
CW5 Raymond M. Lutz, MEP
From: Mike Voight
Subject: Gifts
To: josey@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Friday, March 5, 2010, 5:20 PM
Hi Josey,
I received the packages and HOLY COW it's alot of stuff! () And everything
I needed was in there:) I justed wanted to let u know it arrived ok, and
I won't be needing anything else anytime soon :() Again thank you sooo
much:)
Michael
From: Mike Voight
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010, 10:53 AM
Hello Josey,
It is my pleasure to serve for the US Navy and work with all of the other
services here also. Here at Camp Victory we have Army, Navy, Marines and
the Airforce.
I have never been around all of them before I came here, it's nice to
see them.
Ofcourse our jobs are alot easier when we have the love and support from
others like you!! So thank you for your contributions and support, we
all need and are thankful for it! My pic should be attached, if its not
let me know.
Michael
From: Barnette, Michael P CPT MIL USA FORSCOM
Subject: Update From 1-3 BSTB Chaplain
Date: Monday, February 15, 2010, 8:42 AM
Greetings from FOB Falcon,
These last few weeks have been tremendous four my Chaplain Assistant and I as we have been recieving packages from people just like you who want to support our men and women serving here. I hope you will forgive me for being long in returning our gratitude but everyday we are thinking of you and thankful for what you do.
Not a day goes by that we do not have multiple soldiers coming by our office for a snack, a toothbrush, some deodorant, something to read or watch, or they leave with a whole box of care package items. We also replenish our "Chaplain Corners" in the barracks areas (a total of four locations) where we distribute food and hygiene products. Literally, within a couple of hours of stocking the tables the items are nearly wiped out and we need to go back and resupply. I assure you that our people are getting the things you are sending and I am asked all of the time, "Where do you get this stuff Chaplain?" I tell them that it comes form people back home who care about them and want to help.
I do intend to regularly write and share our experiences with you. I have also included a couple of pictures with this email, pictures of my Assistant and I while out on missions to other locations where we have troops. We have made three trips to deliver packages of items which you and others have sent. Thanks again.
CH (CPT) Michael P. Barnette
USA
1-3 BSTB
Psalm 37:4
To: josey@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Sunday, February 14, 2010, 11:56 AM
Hi,
I am Michael Voight and I have been in the Navy now for 9 years. I am an FC1 and I work on the weapons systems onboard ships. I am currently deployed to Baghdad ,Iraq until Jan 2011. I was born in Rochester ,NY and now live with my wife and two kids in Virginia Beach. Some items I could use are: trail mix, dried fruit, protein bars (or any high protein items), sweat proof sun block, soap bars, and toothpaste. Anything sent will be welcomed and GREATLY APPRECIATED!
Thanks for your support!
Michael
From: Armstead,
Richard J II SFC MIL USA FORSCOM
Date: Monday, February 8, 2010, 9:41 PM
Thank you so much, yes we received your care package and in time for the Super bowl. It was great and we all enjoyed it. We can't thank you enough for all that you do for us and for all the Soldiers deployed.
Thank You again
From: Alexander, Theiring
R USA CPT USA 595th Trans Bde (SDDC)
Subject: [UNCLASSIFIED / NONE] RE: FW: Just Checking In
Date: Monday, February 1, 2010, 2:03 AM
UNCLASSIFIED / NONE
Thank you sooooo much IB and
team for all the much needed support and
expressions of love from your hearts to ours. We got Valentines Day
candy and all the goodies thus far. Thanks again for all you for us,
the troops serving around the world. God bless you richly.
Theiring R. Alexander
CH(CPT)
Brigade Chaplain
> From: Armstead, Richard
J II SFC MIL USA FORSCOM
> Subject: You have been so sweet
> Date: Monday, January 18, 2010, 5:10 AM
>
> Ma'am,
>
> Thank you so much for what you
continue to do for us. The
team consensus is that you send more of what you alread send. They
love
it. I hope this New Year blesses you and your family
throughout. We are doing extremely well here and with
your donations, it makes it a little easier to cope.
I am the 6th person from the left as you are looking at the photo.
From left to right:
MSG Taylor, CPT Williams, SFC Collins, CPT Naelgas, CPT
Reynolds, SFC Armstead (me), SSG Reynolds, SFC Allen, CPT
Plant, CPT Nugyen, MAJ Wilkins
Thank you
From Year 2009
From: Armstead, Richard J II
SFC MIL USA FORSCOM
Subject: Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Date: Monday, December 28, 2009, 9:22 PM
Merry Christmas to you all too. We did receive your package. Thank You so very much. It was most appreciated. We sent a small token of our appreciation for all that you do and have done for all Soldiers currently deployed. Thank you again and Merry Christmas.
The New Year is upon us
Doc Armstead
From: Matthew Torries
Subject: Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Date: Friday, December 25, 2009, 4:54 AM
I have recieved the boxes sorry I didn't write sooner its been busy over here but the guys loved all the treats and they really enjoyed the hats. All the guys were wearing them. I enjoyed the beef jerky. I appreciate all the gifts. Thank you so much for it all!! I hope I can set an example for teenagers all over the world I am only 18. I got recognized by the commander of the base for being the youngest airman on base. It is hard being away from all of my friends and family on Christmas and new years and thanksgiving and missing so many birthdays but I do it for my family. It really touches me when I see the cards the kids make because I have 3 nieces and 2 nephews that love drawing pictures too. Thank you once again. Merry Christmas and Happy New Years! May God Bless you all for what you do for the troops. We all thank you for supporting us.
From: Ford, Robert C SFC
Subject: Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Date: Friday, December 25, 2009, 1:54 AM
I did receive the box right on time the day before X-MAS. I would like to take time out to thank you all from the bottom of my heart, it means so much to receive some thing from people who care so much. God will truly bless you and all your family, I hope you all keep me in your prayers on this most special time of the year.
Rec'd 12/4/09
From: Josey's Nephew in IRAQ
We leave here on Sunday. It is going to be a long arduous trip home. It will take about 10 days or so.. ugh. My replacement is here and his name is SFC Richard Armstead. His e-mail is ...I also have a request to help out a friend of mine from my team who is staying behind for an extra 6 months to be with his wife that is deployed right now as well. His name is SFC Robert Ford and email is ...We did get all the boxes and wow was that a lot of candy. hehe It was used and enjoyed to it's fullest though. Anyway I still hope to be home just before x-mas. Wish me luck and keep those fingers crossed. Talk to you all soon and as always Thank you!
Rec'd Dec 4th, 2009
Mr & Mrs Dorr,
This is SGT Paul M. Mahoney. I would like to take this time to thank you for the packages that you have sent and will send in the future. The men and women in my unit appreciate the thoughtful gifts. I will tell you a little about myself so you know who you are sending these packages to instead of just a name and rank....but understand some certain things will be withheld for security purposes.
I am originally from Chicago, IL. I joined the Army when I was fresh out of high school. I was 18 with 2 kids and heading into a an economical disaster. There was little opportunity for my situation. This was just after 9-11. The sensible thing to do was join the Army. It is a great family organization. You might ask yourself why because they send us overseas, but until you in and experience it you learn it isnt as bad as people make it to be. So here I am 7 years later and I find myself on my 4th overseas deployment and I plan to make this a career. I am now 25 years old with an ageless, beautiful wife, and 4 awesome kids. I have 2 girls and 2 boys. They are 11, 7, 6, and 5. I am glad that I had them early because I wont be broken down and brittle when it comes time to start the football and baseball. I do hope to get a Business Degree and my Realtor License in order to start flipping houses. That is my dream for when I retire. As for things I like or like to do...Well I am what most people would call a sports nut. I am a die hard Bears fan and will be until the day I die!!!! I love comedy movies and stand up. Dane Cook is my Favorite. Have you heard of him? Growing up I always wanted to be a comedian or a comedic actor. It was my dream but I had to put that on hold to take care of my responsibilities. But....I live with no regrets!!!! I love my kids and if I had to do it all over again, I would not change a thing!!!! Overall, I live for sports and love to hear people laugh. That is me in a nut shell.
About our mission here in Afghanistan, all I can tell you is we are looking to stop the Taliban from implacing IED's. (Improvised Explosive Devices) Overall we are here to instill peace and rid this country of Insurgents. I just play a small part in that. Mostly I am trying to do my job, to the best of my ability, and make it home safely to my family. I dislike it when people protest against us but really we are all the same. We are all trying to support our family the best way we know how and to give our kids a better life than we had....Am I right? Were all human and most of us try to do the right thing in life.
Well, I will be in contact and if you have any more questions dont hesitate to ask. I will answer it to the best of my ability. Thank you again for the packages and i hope to hear from you soon. Take care and God Bless!!!!!
Your Friend,
Paul M. Mahoney
SGT, USA
Field Artillery
From: Taylor, Lisa L.
510th CLT
Subject: RE: HAPPY THANKSGIVING (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009, 1:32 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
Thank you, how was your Thanksgiving?
Well mines was alright considering
I'm in Iraq. We can't wait to get the cookies and cards. Thanks you Abby
and Sarah for everything.
From: patrick mackey
Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2009, 4:16 PM
Hey Aunt Josie, I am leaving in about a month. No exact date yet and no replacement yet. I will have to let you know on that later on. I did get the big box with the pretzels and the stuffed animals. I am sure the others will make it in time. Thanks for everything you do... Talk to you all soon.... Pat
08 Oct 2009:
To all the supporters,
It has been great at the Agape Store. The support for the troops continues
to grow. The Chaplain and I have traveled to some remote FOB's and begun
the process of setting up smaller stores in another 8 locations. Again,
a reminder that all items you send are placed for use in various locations.
Nothing is wasted and everything is appreciated. We have a continued need
for towells, Shampoo (full size bottles), shower shoes, snacks, body wash,
canned food items (Ravioli, Spagetti, tuna, Vienna Sausage, Cheese dip,....)
that can be carried on mission. Single serve chips are always a hit. There
is also a demand for chocolate. The weather is cooling fast in the mountains
and the chocolate should travel well. Remember, the store services both
male and female. Winter is on the way and there will be an increased demand
for Coco mix and coffee. Soldiers are asking for Beanie Babies for comfort.
There is something about a stuffed animal that brings joy to the biggest
of kids. The snow will arrive soon. We are still looking for sleds for
soldiers. The sleds will bring added relaxation. Christmas is coming and
there is a call for christmas lights and extensions cords to plug them
in. They may not be able be on all the time, but if only for a couple
of hours they will be appreciated. The free movie rental is continuing
to be a big hit and if you have used or new DVD's, please send them also.
Remember, no pornography. It is prohibited in country. I will post pictures
in the next update. The Agape Store in renovation for expansion and when
it is done I will post some pictures.
God Bless.
For God and Country,
SPC Miles A. Anderson, Chaplain's Assistant
From: Alexander, Theiring
R USA CPT USA 595th TTG
Subject: [UNCLASSIFIED / FOUO] Troop_Request (UNCLASSIFIED)
To: josey@treatsforthetroops.us
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009, 9:09 AM
Hello Josey,
I am amazed at what you and
your team do for the troops. I am a chaplain,
stationed in Kuwait and would like to request
Support. I have an office where soldiers come in all the time asking for
treats and snacks. We try to keep up with the demand, but it's rough.
Can you assist us. We accept all types of treats and snacks to take care
of
the Soldiers in Kuwait and when we go to Iraq and Afghanistan. Thank you
again for your great support to the troops serving in our Armed Forces.
Theiring R. Alexander
CH(CPT) USA
595TH Group Chaplain
From: McNeill, Patrick
SrA 732 ESFS DET 2
Subject: Troop_Request (UNCLASSIFIED)
To: josey@treatsforthetroops.us
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2009, 12:24 PM
Hi,
I am the MWR NCOIC for my unit. I would like to submit myself as the POC to receive care packages from your organization. Our deployed address is added below this message. We currently have approx. 200 in out unit. (Not the exact number for OPSEC). Approx. 20 of our personnel are females. We arrived in country Jan 2009 and are scheduled to return home NLT 15 Jan 2010. Thank you in advance for you support.
23 Oct 2009: SGT Beeler
sorry time flies when your working hard. We have been on commo black out
alot so I have not been able to update this as much as I would like. We
are all hanging in there we have lost a few that are close to us but we
are doing this for them now. My they RIP and keep us safe by watching
our backs from up above.
Well its getting cold here and if you all could send stuff to decorate
the tents and work area we would like that Chirstmas this year with are
best buds. We also got some awsome wool caps they help keep us warm. Also
its starting to get cold and the wounded soldiers need some blankets and
some slippers if at all possible that would be awsome. I would like to
thank everyone for all of the support that we are getting out here we
have been doing alot of missions and I have been taking all of the stuff
out to the soldiers on post that have nothing so anything is great.
If you all could send some water heaters for hot cocoa, tea, hot apple
cider and if you could send anything that we can add hot water to, to
heat us up that would be so cool.
thanks again
SGT Beeler
02 Sep 2009 SGT Beeler
Hello,
First I would like to say thank you for all of the awsome support, you are all so great. So we have started our work here in Afghan and we are having many soldiers that are getting injured and being flown back to my post with nothing. I was wondering if I can add alittle side project for these great hero that are coming to me with nothing. On average we have been recieve about 30 a week.
Anything personal hygene they have nothing Shaving cream razors shower shoes towels wash clothes soap Shampoo And then of course they will need stuff to entertain them card games, board games, we are starting a tent area just for these soldiers I want them to know that we support them and hope they heal fast, and we have to remember that some of them have lost their battle buddies. thank you for the help anything will help
SGT Beeler
17 Aug 2009 SPC Miles A. Anderson
I am currently stationed at FOB XXXX with the 877HSC EN BN. The Unit Ministry Team has "The Agape Store" or "Free-X" Soldiers are able to come into the store and all items are free. When there is excess items, the Chaplain and I take them to other FOB's and they are distributed to the troops country wide. No items are wasted. The store is growin and recently provided itmes to the unit that was in search of a missing soldier captured by the Taliban. We are grateful for whatever support that can be offered. No service member is turned away and our presence is reaching into those who are not assigned to our unit. We serve on a FOB that has all branches re€presented. The following is a list of items that are always in demand: Good Shower Slides, Bath Towels, Coffee, Hot Chocolate Mix, p-nuts, Candy (all kinds/Single serve Pack), Small Caned Dinner (ravioli, beef and noodle,.....), DVD's (new or used/no porn), Mouth Wash, Coffee, Hot Chocolate Mix, Body Wash (Male and Female, Bath Towells, Light Bulbs (75W & 100W), Chips (Single Serve), Beef jerky, cookies (Single Serve), Any Snack Items Also, winter is comming and the snow will be falling. We are at 8000' and have access to hills on the FOB. We are looking for snow sleds and snow discs for the service members to have a little winter fun for morale.
Thank you in advance for your support and may God Bless you.
In His Service,
SPC Miles A. Anderson
Chaplain's Assistant
04 Aug 2009
SGT Beeler
Greetings from afghanastan
We are all getting settle here it is very hot here. I would like to thank all of the people that are supporting us troops over here in the sand box we wouldn't be able to be this strong with out the support of all of you so thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I do have more soldiers now another 50 or so.
We would like to add a few thing to our wish list we would like drink packet (crystal light, kool aid any would be great) baby powder or body powder of any kind and everything else you all have been sending us is so awsome well I will write again soon once again thank you so much for all of the support.
Thank you,
SGT Beeler
24 Jun 2009
SGT Beeler
Hello I'm in a unit that is getting started here and we are starting from the ground up. What I was hoping for is books of all kind, games (board games all and any would be so great) Card games (Skippo, uno, phase 10, and any other fun games you can all think of. Word search, soduko all of those fun mind games that the guys can take with them on the road. That they can put in a small bag if need be. Where we are the PX is stocked and sold out by the end of the day so any thing would be great chapstick, Sunscreen, lotion, shampoo and conditioner, leave in conditioner, mens bar soap, we have soldiers of all ethnic so anything would be great. Most of the females here use the always brand for pads and pearl. And shaving cream for male and female would be a live saver. I hope I have given you the information that you need to decide if you will help me and my unit. We all thank you for all the support you give to us. And I hope you pick us to help. Sorry we are from Fort Lewis, Washington.
From:
Cobb, Richard R Jr 1LT MIL USA
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2009, 2:42 AM
Hi all,
Thank you so much again for you support.
I just came back from mid tour leave so i got to see my family and made
myself
a fiance. It was a great time. When i came back... i found out that we
are
about to go home earlier then expected. Right now we are rushing to pack
up and get things ready to move back. As much as i appreciate the things
you send us, i think they could be sent to Soldiers more in need.
Thank you again so much for your support. When I landed in Dallas for
my
connecting flight, we were in our uniforms and as soon as we hit the terminal,
we recieved massive applause from everyone in the airport.... it was really
a
very very proud moment. It was fantastic to see supporters for all the
work we
try to do... People like you are some of the best. Its been a pretty rough
year
for my platoon and we could always count on that massive care package
to show up in an appropriate time. Thank you again for everything in the
past year.
1LT Richard Cobb
From: Scott Ebel
Subject: thank you
Date: Monday, March 23, 2009, 3:01 PM
hey
i recieved your second package a while back andi just wanted to get back
to you and say thank you very much
SGT Ebel
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Subject: RE: HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
Date: Friday, February 13, 2009, 11:33 PM
Dear Josey: Thank you
so much for the nice email. I did get your box
and I divided it up between a few convoys who were getting ready to roll
out. Things have been pretty hectic here lately. We actually had to
move our whole battalion area to the other side of the base. It was and
still is a mess!!!! I hope you and your family are doing well and
having a prosperous new year. I have 2 more months and then I get to go
home for 2 weeks to see my wife and kids. I am so excited about that.
Have a great day and I will talk with you again soon.
YOUR FRIEND
SSG DANNY LINDSEY
From: Alynn Rivera
Subject: Re: HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2009, 5:12 AM
Hello Joesy and Jeff.
Thank you for the box. We did recieve it. We are all delighted and very
thankful. Hope you guys are doing well- thanks again. Greatly appreciated!
PFC. RIVERA, ALYNN G.
From: Bowden LT Jennifer D (AA MWSS H&S CHAPLAIN)
Subject: Happy Valentine's Day!
Date: Monday, February 9, 2009, 6:55 AM
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Greetings Josey and Jeff!
We want to thank you for the box filled with home-baked goodies, Valentine’s candy, cards, sermons, and stuffed animals! The dips and chips are already gone and I can’t even remember what kinds of home-baked cookies were in the box because they were gone within a few minutes of putting the word out! Thank you SO much! We are at a point in the deployment where your care package made all the difference in morale. Thank you for your support and encouragement to the Sweathogs! Unfortunately, our web-site has been taken down. However, we will be putting together an account of the deployment and I will make sure you receive a copy. We will not be able to receive mail out here after 1 March. Any packages received will be sent back to our ‘home’ in Beaufort , SC. Thank you again. I will keep in touch as we move closer to our return home and appreciate your contributions to this deployment!
Have a blessed day!
Jen
LT Jennifer D. Bowden, CHC, USN
MWSS-273, Chaplain
From: Cobb, Richard R Jr 1LT MIL USA USAREUR 7A
Subject: hi
Date: Friday, February 6, 2009, 4:13 AM
Hi all
Its been a while since i've written ya... sorry for that..... we've
been incredibly busy up here with all sorts of things. You may have seen
a
couple of events on the news that we participated in like the elections.
That
task (to help the Iraqis protect the polling sites) fell on us for our
entire
province.... it turned out to be a 39 hour mission. It was brutal... but
the
night before we had to go out on it, i got a box from you for the super
bowl....
well, since we got the mission last minute, none of the soldiers had what
we
call Pogey Bait (snacks). I put that box out for the soldiers and i've
never seen them move so fast. While we were out on the mission, i saw
them
snackin down on all the chips and treats.... they loved it. Thank you
so much
for contributing and supporting us the way you do. Means alot. We had
a decent
super bowl (at 0100). The Army actually let us have 2 beers to enjoy during
the
event. Needless to say, your snacks were already gone! hahaha. Thanks
again
for your support. Thought you might enjoy that lil true story.
1LT Cobb
From: Rivera, Pedro A USA SFC USA JPOTF
To: ibjosey@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2009, 11:58 PM
It was really nothing compared
to all you guys have done for our troops.
Please let me know if there is some one in particular that you'd like
to
recognize the same way. Our command here will be more than glad to do
so.
WE ARE GOING HOME!!!
Thank you for being the kind
of people that you are. I truly believe
that is because of people like you, that America is such a wonderful
country. God bless her, you guys and those like you for ever.
Regards,
Pedro
V/R
PEDRO A. RIVERA
JPOTF HQ First Sergean
From: Scott Ebel
Subject: THANK YOU
To: josey@TreatsForTheTroops.US
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2009, 1:41 PM
I WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU VERY
MUCH FOR THE PACKAGE I SPLIT OT UP WITH MY PLATOON AND WE ALL GOT TO ENJOY
IT. THANK YOU VERY MUCH I APPRECIATE IT SO VERY MUCH
SGT EBEL, SCOTT .A
1/10/09
It took a few days because of the time difference between Japan and TN
where he lives but we did connect. And I was finally, after all these
years, able to thank him for his service and tell him I have always been
so grateful he returned alive. He told me how much it meant to him as
a young, 20 year old soldier to receive something from someone he didn't
know back home and to know that someone was thinking of him and appreciating
what he was doing. I'm sure the fine service men and women we have today
who are receiving packages from people like Susan feel the same. I guess
some things never change.
I heard from Chaplain Michael Tomlinson today as did some of you. He sent
photos of their current location (cold and wet) in Iraq. They are about
to move to a location even more desolate but the good news is -- won't
be long and they will be back in the USA. Please continue to hold the
1/2 in your prayers. No more mail though, by the time they receive it
they will be back home.
And I heard from Gunnery Sgt. Ben Alicea today. These words are taken
from his email "
"I need you to tell all that are supporting us that we have been
receiving packages and appreciate them all. ....... Wanted to paint a
picture for you on the package situation. The platoon and I have received
so much stuff that we have started sharing with H&S and Kilo company.
Kilo company has a couple of good friends of mine, so I look out for them
and they do the same for me."
It's rough in Afghanistan, I'm sure that you know that. 3/8 has lost 2
Marines and we pray that the rest of the battalion will return safe and
sound in the spring. Please hold them in your prayers. From Ben: CAAT
platoon is fine except for a couple non-combat related injuries. (sprained
ankle and eye infection)
If you are shipping to 3/8 do keep it up -- our letters and packages must
continue even though Christmas is over. And if you are shipping to a specific
Sailor or Marine remember to enclose paper, pens and an envelope addressed
to you (no stamp required). It is much more likely that your Marine will
write back to you if he has the supplies needed to do that. Ben tells
me the internet service at this FOB is horrible.
They are out for days at a time on lengthy patrols and are exhausted when
they return to the FOB so please understand if they do not write back
to you. They are grateful, your efforts are much appreciated.
From Year 2008
From: Tomlinson LCDR Michael L (1/2 Bn Chaplain)
Date: Tuesday, December 30, 2008, 6:08 AM
Thanks to you we had a wonderful Christmas! Your kindness and generosity speaks volumes. It is unfortunate that the rants and lies of groups like MoveOn.org and the media often overshadowed our successes. Please take it from me unless we screw this up in the next year or so we have won the war in Iraq with fewer casualties (4,200+) than the 20,000 + that were predicted for the initial invasion 5 years and 9 months ago. That is incredible and you’ve had a hand to play in that victory by sending your sons and daughters to fight for freedom (some paying the ultimate sacrifice), sticking by your country’s warriors and just being there with morale boosting support.
Some quick facts of what the US military has done in Iraq: we liberated over 25,000,000 people in Iraq who are taking to democracy; deposed a dictator who was paying terrorists and their families in Israel tens of thousands of dollars to murder innocent men, women and children; captured the WMD storage facility at Muthanna where deadly Saran, Mustard Gas, VX and other deadly concoctions were stored; captured and sent to the West 500,000 tons of yellow cake used to make nuclear weapons; disarmed Libya of its advanced WMD and nuclear weapons program without firing a shot; conservatively killed more than ten thousand al Qaeda terrorists and proven the lie to Osama bin Laden’s boast that the American military was a paper tiger that could be easily defeated.
Our/your Battalion has led the way in humanitarian outreach with Operations Eyes On, Happy Feet, Textbook, Care Bear and Dental Floss. Internally your support for Operations Spittoon and Up & Smoke made 1/2 a chewer and cigar smokers paradise. We salute you for your support. God bless you and a may you have a very Happy New Year.
Semper Fi,
Mike
Chaplain (LCDR) Michael Tomlinson
1st Battalion 2d Marines
COP Rawah , Iraq
From: Bowden LT Jennifer D (AA MWSS H&S CHAPLAIN)
Subject: RE: CarePackage
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008, 2:25 AM
Greetings, Josey and Jeff!
Did you have to weather the snow storm to get to the post office? I
hope you're enjoying an amazing 'white' view without the traffic
complications! It looks like New York is still getting more snow.
You'll have a white Christmas! You are wonderful!! Thank you very much
for the box filled with goodies. We had a Christmas Program yesterday-
I've attached a photo- and, your goodies were gone before the service
ever started (the reindeer ears are in the pic as well:). Did you make
the chocolate/caramel dipped pretzels? They were great as well as
everything else. I can't thank you enough for your support to this
squadron.
I will enjoy your church series. There are units that don't have the
chaplain on Sunday and they will watch it! Books are always appreciated.
Thank you.
The holidays are a tough time to be away from home- and, you've helped
the Marines and Sailors to create new traditions! There will be a
special message to family and friends on the website Christmas Day.
Please know that the message is meant for your and your family. And,
thank you again for everything you do!
Have a wonderful Christmas!
Blessings, Jen
LT Jennifer D. Bowden, CHC, USN
MWSS-273, Chaplain
From: Rivera, Pedro A USA SFC USA JPOTF
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008, 2:06 AM
Hello Jeff and Josey,
Just a few words to let you know that we received the care package and
we are very grateful for it. I have attached a picture of our Christmas
tree with all the goodies you sent us. Notice the ornament on the tree,
below the hat/star, next to the red bow… It is actually a great
photo! Hopefully the weather has cleared up some.
Again, thank you so much for your support and may God bless you, your
loved ones and everyone involved with Treats for the Troops.
V/R
PEDRO A. RIVERA
( Kuwait )
From: Lindsey, Danny L USA SSG USA HHD 6th Trans BN
Subject: RE: CHRISTMAS BOXES
Date: Sunday, December 21, 2008, 1:45 PM
Hey there Josey, I got three gynormous boxes from you today and
boy were they ever filled with wonderful things for the holiday. I am
going to wrap several of the items you sent and present them to some of
the lower ranking Soldiers on Christmas Morning. I intend on going to
the chow hall during breakfast with the Santa hat on that you sent and
handing out gifts at the door. That should be a real treat. Thank you
so much Josey for everything you have done for us to help make our
Holidays a little brighter over here. Lt Giorno and I passed out some
of the goodies to a convoy today that is leaving tomorrow and will be
on the road during Christmas. They were very appreciative of the
goodies. Please tell Robin and her family that I said Thank you for
being so caring and selfless. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and
Happy New year. I will be thinking of you on Christmas morning. I look
forward to hearing from you again. Until then please have fun and be
safe!!!!
YOUR FRIEND
SSG DANNY LINDSEY
5-6/08 - I have to catch up on posting these. Stay Tuned. Jeff
4/30/08
Hello to everyone,
I really don't remember the last time I sent a mass email out to update
everyone so if I repeat some of the things in this one, I apologize. My
commander has been on emergency leave the last two weeks so I've been
wearing two hats as the acting commander and maintenance control officer.
Definitely a lack of sleep on this end but he should be back in a week
or
so. As the acting commander I had my eyes opened to some of the harder
times being in that position. The company had a red cross message come
down that one of my Soldier's eleven year old daughter was diagnosed with
a very aggressive form of cancer, however, the redcross message was not
written correctly on the other end to sound serious enough to grant him
emergency leave therefore, I had to tell him that he could not go home
to see his daughter. That has definitely been one of the harder things
I had to do.
Fortunately after many phone calls with the girl's doctor at Tripler Medical
Center, HI, I was able to get him to resend the message and by the third
message, he finally got it right and the Soldier was on a plane 1 1/2
hours
later. Now were faced with the dilemma to try and get the command to
reassign this Soldier to the rear-D so he can see her through the treatment.
As of now, she has a 50% to live through the next 14 days. The day after
that Soldier finally got to leave, another red cross came down that a
Soldier's grandmother died and even though she was close to her grandmother,
she was not aloud to leave for her funeral either because she wasn't immediate
family. In my position, I had to give a hard persona to these Soldiers
in order to appear to support the chain of command (which is a must for
discipline of the unit) yet I whole heartedly disagreed with the
decision. On other news, the NC National Guard has their MP unit on this
base. They have had some hard blows coming their way already loosing five
Soldiers in the last month and half to two months. I actually went to
college with two of these Soldiers who were behind me, but I knew them
through ROTC. My college room mate Joel Thomas was actually assigned to
this unit while we were in college. Other than that it is a pretty normal
day. Training the Iraqi Army continues with small successes that are few
and far between and the Soldiers continue to continue their mission day
in and day out. I hope all of you are doing fine and I miss you all very
much. To my wife and family, I love you very much and can't wait to see/talk
to you again.
Jordan
4/18/08
We reached box number 150 and got another letter of thanks from Christina here
4/10/08
Some of our recent additions don't send emails but do send thank you cards or letters via mail. Here are some cards from Nyla, and Christina we received over the last week.
Mike got to go home on leave to see his young Son and Wife YEAH !. Some of his two weeks is spent traveling, so now he is on his way back to Iraq. Thanks to all who help make these boxes possible. Miriam who came down from Northville with Girl Scout Cookies that they will love !!! My neighbor Mickie who put together a great package for our new addition of Female Soldiers !
Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2008
17:34:56 -0700 (PDT)
From: Scott Nagorski
Subject: Re: HAPPY EASTER
To: I B Josey <ibjosey@yahoo.com>
Hi I hope your easter was all
good. Your box made it just in time being that i leave to go home for
my 2 weeks in a day. I can't wait!!! Thanks for everything thats a hole
lota movies. It will give me something to do when i get back here from
enjoying my time back home. Thanks again.
-Scott
Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2008
08:26:31 -0800 (PST)
From: michael chandonnet
Subject: thanks
i got the gingerbread cookies
box 2 days ago thanks they went quick. well im on my way home here soon.
im not at my FOB right now im at a bigger FOB that i will fly to kuwait
from. i am hopeing to be home on tuesday.
mike
Date: Sun, 23 Mar 2008
15:07:03 -0700 (PDT)
From: michael chandonnet
Subject: Re: HAPPY EASTER
im back and my box got here
the same day i did thanks man it was some good stuff.
mike
Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2008
15:49:32 -0800 (PST)
From: Scott Nagorski
Dear Josey,
We got your 2 packages a few days ago our mail has been slow for the past
2 weeks. All was great. The movies were really great. It kept us busy
for a few days. All the magazines were given out that day as I brought
them to where the computers and phones are. It turns out I am going home
earlier for my 2 weeks of leave. I wanted to go in June for my anniversery
but I'm going in April. Oh well. I got a nice trip planned for my wife
and I anyway. There's not to much I can think of to send except maybe
sweet tarts lol you guys are doing a great job. We really appreciate it.
Thanks, PFC Nagorski, Sgt Murrey, Spec Jiminez and Spec Poirer
Date: Sun, 27 Jan 2008
21:16:55 -0800 (PST)
From: michael chandonnet
yeah im good ive been doing better since i have been able to get out of the wire this past week. yes the magazines made it and man was that box heavy. thats great that your gonna send that football we play football all the time and a change in balls is always great. wow cant wait for your treats last time we all loved them. its usually takes about 8 days to get mail. my family is doing good my son is talking alot more, he is on the spectum of autism but not autistic just has development delays in speach and behavior. the school system is going to help. my wife is doing great because i come home for R&R around feb 25th. so shes really happy. and my tour is supposted be up in december but might be up in september either way its fine by me - mike
Date: Fri, 25 Jan 2008
07:31:11 -0800 (PST)
From: michael chandonnet
Im going very good i have been
able to go out on missions here lately so ive been a bit busy. we got
the boxes thanks and we will be watching and eating the food when we watch
the superbowl. thanks again. i do have one thing if you can find it. its
a football by nerf its called Nerf Vortex it can have the howler things
or it or not it dont matter. look forward to see what you send in the
valentines box. you surprise me all the time.
mike
Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2008
THIS IS A MARINE WE HELPED BY SENDING A BOX TO AT CHRISTMAS , WE HEARD HE WAS ON HIS FIRST TOUR AND NOT DOING SO WELL FROM JOSH WHO CONTACTED OUR WEB SITE.
From: April B
To: Josh Wright <liljoshwright@yahoo.com>
Subject: Justin Gaines
Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:43:23 -0600
Hey Josh, How are you doing? I hope all is well with you. I just wanted
to give you an update. I actually got a phone call from Justin today.
He is exhausted and freezing, but for the most part doing okay. He sounded
really good.
He wanted me to let you know he really appreciates everything sent to
him. However, in a few weeks he will be headed out on various missions.
He said the last few months they are going to be there will be go, go,
go. He will be going from place to place and therefore asks that you not
send anymore packages. It will take extra time to get there and he has
no place to put anything anyone sends. Letters are always welcome though.
Other than that, he says things are still looking good for him to be home
before May, depending on if they are going to have to due a huge post-deployment
thing on the coast or not.
I too want to thank you for everything you have done for him. I was so
ecstatic in the letter I got today and his phone call and he sounds just
like his self and said he was okay.
Thanks again. -April Blackburn
Date: Fri, 4 Jan
2008 13:35:50
From: michael chandonnet
well i am a big cowboys fan and if they make it pretty far i would like
a hat. i will see what else the guys would like for the super bowl. thanks
for everything.
mike
Date: Thu, 3 Jan 2008 16:33:53 -0800 (PST)
Josey,
We will watch any DVDS that you send but comedy and action would be great.
Also the other guys said a board game or uno cards would be great. Such
as Stratego, One of the special edition monopoly's like the army edition
or Simpson's or something like that. And always snacks I'm gunna try and
get a photo taken this week for your web site. We really appreciate all
you guys are doing. Thanks
Scott
Date: Tue, 1 Jan 2008
13:29:58 -0800 (PST)
thanks and happy new years to you guys also. I will ask the 3 other guys
if theres anything they can think of. A movie or 2 would be great if thats
not to much to ask for. But ill ask my other 3 guys also. I also got a
new address to ship to
PFC Scott Nagorski
From Year 2007
Date: Tue, 25
Dec 2007 13:29:58 -0800 (PST)
well the holidays are here and im away from my family and friends. this
comes with the military. once again chow sucked we had almost the same
thing we had for thanksgiving cornish hens and ham. the best thing was
the cheese cake and deserts. it also sucked because i had to work the
toc and today no one really went out except for route clearance. so i
missed out on the football tourny. the holidays just arent the same without
friends or family. little things keep me going like a friend of mine saying
that he was here with me last time and now he's at home in texas and its
not the same and it wont be untill i'm home with my wife and son and to
smile because when i'm smiling he's smiling and if you know him he has
one on all the time so i can let that down. so im going to let all this
holiday stuff pass me by it can only get better. just wait untill next
year and i will top all of my christmas's. take care love you all. talk
and see you soon.
mike
Date: Fri, 21 Dec 2007
21:20:02 -0800 (PST)
Well things have been going pretty good around here not to much happing
in our area witch is nice. Santa is going to be coming here the 23 24
and 25th so that will be kind of fun. I'm going to ask to go home or just
to get some internet down in the jail for my shift. I have received the
package you sent and took it down to the jail to share it all w/ the other
guys. Everything was great especially the homemade goods. They really
like the chocolate cover Oreos and I liked the pretzel sticks a bunch.
It was weird with the Duncan donuts coffee because we were just talking
about ordering some online. The other guys (SGT Justin Murray SPC Kody
Poiror and SPC Roberto Jiminaz) say thanks and have a good Christmas and
New Year. If you would like we could take a photo for you and send it
to you when we got some free time. Thank you very much and have a great
Christmas and a happy new year we will try to the same.
-PFC Nagorski
Date: Fri, 21 Dec 2007
10:21:48 -0800 (PST)
From: michael chandonnet
yes and THANK YOU! Me and everyone in my platoon enjoyed the baked goods
and candy. I seperated it out and gave it to all of them and they loved
it. I loved the cookies with the peanut butter cup in it. It was a little
piece of heaven. thank you very much!
mike
Date: Thu, 13 Dec 2007 11:03:55 +0300
I got them (Christmas Boxes)
and am trying to get JoAnne's to her. Having some issues trying to reach
her with everyone trying to take care of things so we can leave and come
home. I will find a way though. Thanks.
Sean
Subject: RE: Replacement Contact
Date: Tue, 4 Dec 2007 08:22:51 +0300
He is here now, he is not my
actual replacement but he works here in
the cell and will sit across from my replacement when she gets here but
since I am not sure who it will be I wanted to give you a name of
someone definite. BTW, he is the biggest fan of all the cookies! Is
funny, you could pack 2 boxes, one full of cash and the other full of
the homemade cookies and choco dipped stuff and people here would not
think twice, they would go for the cookies and dipped things!! I gave
Paul his bucket of goodies, he loved it!
Well time to get some things done around here. Thank you for
everything, and yes I am very happy to be leaving here and coming back
to the states and to Michelle! I miss her very much.
Sean
Date: Sun, 2 Dec 2007
18:02:25 -0800 (PST)
From: Scott Nagorski
Josey and Jeff
Coffee and coffee cream would be great (french vinilla if possable would
be wonderfull) i work 25 hour shifts in a jail so we go thru lots of coffee
and creamer.The candy and tooth brushes have been all handed out and eaten
already so we enjoyed that very much. But anything you send will be much
appricated.
-PFC Nagorski
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2007
14:54:21 -0800
(PST)
From: Scott Nagorski
Hi my name is Scott Nagorski.
Today i recived a package from you with candy, toothbrushes and tooth
paste. I just wanted to drop you a line and say thank you very much for
sending that to me. I will be shareing all of it with my co-workers here
in iraq. I thought the cards from the children were very sweet. You said
in your card to let you know if ill be here for christmass and yes i will
be.. I will not be going home untill about Dec of 2009. Thank you again
for your support and treats :)
PFC Nagorski
Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2007 16:36:32 +0300
Happy Thanksgiving to you as well!! I received another box today, thank you so much. I heard about the text messaging thing to support the troops. I wonder how many messages will be sent.
Date: Tue, 6 Nov 2007
09:05:03 +0300
Subject: RE: HAPPY HALLOWEEN BOXES ON THE WAY !!!!
I got them!!! Actually I got
2 boxes 2 days ago but it has been hell
here recently. We had a few bad days here with roadside bombs (IEDs) and
some casualties and injuries. I hate that part of my job, when reports
come in about people being killed or severly injured, it just makes me
sooooo angry sometimes. I told everyone to brush their teeth from all
the sugar, hehe. Was a great Halloween stash you all sent. Please pass
our thanks to everyone there who helped. It was amazing! The dipped pretzels...my
personal favorite!! They were delicious. ... Thank you so much!
Sean
Sat, 27 Oct 2007
14:48:45
Josey,
Coffee and fixins arrived! WOW, thank you so much, was
awesome! Arrived just in time as we were about out. You are an angel!
Fri, 26 Oct 2007 04:38:23
Josey and Jeff,
You don't know me, but I received an awesome care package from you last
week. My name is Joanna Vasquez and I am a 23 yr old Air Force Sergeant
stationed in Baghdad, Iraq. Thank you for the time you took to think of
me and send me the magazines, all the hygiene items, and the twizzlers.
I am stationed with about 50 guys and two other girls so it was nice to
receive girlie things. I think it’s great what your organization
does for the troops deployed to Iraq. We have been here since '03 and
it is very touching to know we are not only remembered, but appreciated.
I have attached a picture of myself and the last two girls that were here
(they went home last month), I don't have any pictures with the new girls
yet. I am the one with the short brown hair. The EOD technicians do 6
month tours, but I am here on a one year tour, so I've worked with two
sets of them. I am not sure how many soldiers/sailors/airmen/marines write
back to you and let you know how grateful they are,
Collectively, thank you for what you do for us,
SSgt Joanna Vasquez
Wed, 24 Oct 2007
Josey and Jeff!
Thank you I am back to work today and still not feeling all that
well, but I can't be away too much, there is still work to be done. I
spent most of yesterday sleeping and drinking lots of water. I went to
sick call the day before and they gave me 2 Ivs (2000mL total) of
saline. It helped a bit, apparently I was a bit dehydrated.
I look forward to seeing your card. I know I repeat myself a lot,
but you both amaze me with your energy and care for us. I am very
humbled, which is not something that happens to me a lot because of what
I see in my job as a criminal investigator and then here in Iraq. I am
amazed by you both and very thankful for people like you in our world!
Yes, I think the weather has backed off enough that Chocolates can be
mailed without melting away. My mouth immediately watered when I read
about the pretzels...YUMM. You hit a soft spot with me there, lol. People
here seem to like everything that is sweet, and they all have varied tastes,
so whatever you send trust, me people are gonna eat! Lol.
10-9-07
Jeff & Josey,
Thank you, I received 2 of 3 boxes today from you.
I wanted to share with you something I thought that was
heartwarming when I was opening them. When I receive your packages I
open and separate them out based on what people on my teams may prefer
or request, as well as set things out here in the unit for anyone who
wants something. While I was opening one of the boxes, a young Army
private was walking past and something in one of the boxes caught his
eye and when I noticed it I asked him if he wanted something for him or
his buddies. Apparently he had been in Korea for a previous tour and
the spicy asian snack/trail mix was something that he enjoyed aand
reminded him of that tour. While talking to him I asked him if he could
use a phone card or 2 to call home. That was the icing on the cake! He
was so appreciative. Then I told him about yourselves and what you do
for us over here and he asked me to thank you for supporting us. It was
a very heartwarming moment for me thanks to you and your generosity. I
wanted to share that with you so you know what a difference you are
making to people here... Sean