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San Marcos Daily Record Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004 'Operation Continued Support' collects care packages for troops
Twix candy bars, Fabreeze, razors, batteries and Dr. Pepper might sound like a regular shopping trip for most, but these are just some of the items being requested by local troops stationed in Iraq. Members of Operation Continued Support have compiled the wish list from the soldiers through e-mails, letters and family members. The group will collect donations this Saturday and send care packages to soldiers stationed at Camp Anaconda in Balad. "This is going to be really special," said OCS Member Carol Wilder. "There will be family members there helping us to sort the items." The care package send-off will begin at 9 a.m. at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Hall on Hunter Road. "We're keeping in contact with the soldiers and we're keeping a list of the items they need," said Wilder. Wilder's daughter, Lea, has been coordinating the OCS since December when the local 13th Corps Support Command of the U.S. Army was deployed. The group has been vigilant about keeping in contact with local soldiers, many who have families in San Marcos, and has sponsored family events. The group still needs plenty of items donated that soldiers have specifically requested. Among those items are socks, insect repellent, Sweet 'n' Low, bath gels and lotions, athletes foot care products, disposable cameras, Tylenol, Aleve, sinus medication, wet wipes, trial size toothpaste, Ramen soup, cereal, stationary and magazines. There have also been lots of requests for Dove Nutrient Bath Gel and Charmin toilet paper. "We are seeking the help of local churches and organizations in San Marcos for donations," says Lea. "As well as the help of the entire community to make this a success." Packages will be sent to the troops on a monthly basis until they return home. For more information or a copy of the wish list, e-mail troopsendoff@yahoo.com. Donations will be accepted Saturday at the VFW from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. |
