Hi, My name is Sgt **** and I just wanted to say thank you for the care packages that we received today. It really means a lot to my Marines and myself. It boosts morale and helps a lot with everything else we need. Your services are very much appreciated and makes me proud to keep our country safe because of people like you. I only wish there were more people out there that appreciated the military like you do.
Thanks again and Semper Fi!

Dear Debbie,
I received the care package yesterday. I really appreciate everybody's notes and items that I have received. Please give my thanks for the items; DVD was a great movie I enjoy it made me feel close to home, the chocolate, cookies, books, all the goodies. Thank you for the thoughts, and prayers. I have attached a picture. Please keeps us always in your prayers.
Give my love to all.
Yesenia

Hey Ladies,
It's a small, small world. Here I am in Kandahar, and I was getting a little down and my day changed when we opened one of the boxes from you. It may sound really silly but it was like Christmas when I saw the cans of soup in the box. I claimed them and the Spaghetti and Meatballs. LOL
I was just telling these guys how much I miss a drippy grilled cheese and a bowl of Campbells Tomato soup. They're from California...they don't understand.
The best part about this box is that it was packed with fun and love from Joliet. I live in Tinley Park. I belong to the 863rd Combat Engineers in Darien. The 311tth Expeditionary Sustainment Command from Los Angeles stole me for this mission. We have been gone since September with another 6 months to go. Hooah!
Thank YOU!
Thank you for doing this for all of us. It is very much appreciated and enjoyed.
PS. GO HAWKS!!!!!!

Ladies & gentlemen,
I just wanted to thank you for your care package. The trucks came rolling up around dinner time just as I was about to eat a spaghetti MRE. Needless to say we augmented our MREs with your care package.
The troops tore into the Girl Scout Cookies and other snacks. Believe it or not I am a Lewis U grad so the city of Joliet does bring back memories.
Thank you all for your support. Someday when I get back to the greater Chicago-land area I will try to go visit.
Jason

To Everyone Involved
I would like to thank everyone who provided time and effort for the care packages that our unit has received during our deployment. We love the support you provide us from the US. The care packages are well received. We here will try and give our best foot forward for all our brothers and sister back in the US, while we continue here with the military mission. We all here would like to thank everyone who gives their time. We know you don't have to but we appreciate all the efforts you and everyone gives to us.
Thank you for the support, and we will all try to keep safe and return safely.

Dear Ms. Smothers,
I just want to say thank you for adding my name to the care package list. Your help and generosity certainly help us feel even more proud to serve our country and appreciate the support we get from back home. Thank you again.
FOB Shoja, Afghanistan
Best wishes

Thank you all for the terrific care package! You brought a smile to my face and the food and supplies were much appreciated. Although I will be leaving soon, I will always remember your generous donation of care packages, time, and energy.
Thank you for all you do in support of our service members!
Terry

Hey this is Lclp ***** of 3/2 Wpns co. I'm in the scout sniper platoon. Me and the other 12 of us recieved your packages you sent out to us, containing an abundance of snacks :-), socks, movies, canned goods, and all other sorts of things like magazines and such.
We thankyou so much, the thought behind all of this, the time spent; Words cannot describe how grateful we are. Yes your letters are correct, but I managed to get a second to write you back.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything you do back home it's much appreciated. If any questions, just email me back, I'll try to check my email in the next couple of days.
SEMPER FIDELIS

Dearest friends,
I wish to thank you so very much for the care package. I personally want you to know that it was very much appreciated.
I normally do not accept any packages as a Non Commissioned Officer (NCO), I always allow my Soldiers to get the packages first. I have been on ground here in Afghanistan going on 5 months and this is the 2nd one I allowed myself to have. I loved each and every item that was in my package and use some of them daily.
When good people like you take the time out of your busy days to prepare and send packages, I being a Soldier, am fortunate enough to see your hard work is appreciated. The smiles on my Soldiers faces and the barter system that we created allows all of us here to get something special or something that was really needed.
On behalf of all the 32nd Transportation Company "Operations" section, I once again want to thank you and wish each of every one of your team a whole hardily... "Hooah" With great respect...

Dear Operation Care Package team members,
I wasn't sure which email to write this short letter to, so I am writing to all of you. I am PFC *****, the Combat Medic who signed up for volunteers who wanted to help support the soldiers of my platoon here in Afghanistan.
I am writing to let you know the packages have been received and everyone was very excited to get them.
We all work between 12 to 16 hours per day, and the day is usually filled with missions, and many hours of guard duty. However, our main responsibility is running the Aid Station so soldiers and department of defense civilians are able to receive the care they need while here in theater. We see everything from a case of the sniffles to severe musculoskeletal injuries.
We have also treated personnel who were injured in IED blasts here at our location. So, in the middle of all the action, we are usually able to stop and grab some chow at the chow hall, but on the occasion that we do not get that chance, the snacks and stress relief items that your team sent to us really come in handy. There are some of us who are out on mission for two weeks at a time, eating only MRE's or whatever food they are able to come up with. But, even if we are only on mission for a day or two, the snacks help us to keep our spirits up and keep the salt to water balance in our body in a normal range. (Dehydration and low salt levels are serious problems here)
Anyway, I just wanted to give you an idea how the resources you've devoted to improving our outlook are being used. Nothing will be wasted, because everything your team sent to us is absolutely precious. We often give out snacks and drink mixes and such to our soldiers as they come into the aid station for care or to visit for other reasons. We also invite our higher ranking officers into the aid station on occasion for coffee or snacks. ( I see no reason why we shouldn't keep our higher ranking officers happy. ) haha
Thank you for what you are doing for deployed soldiers, and thank you for the care packages you sent us. The items are much appreciated.
Also, if you would be interested in seeing pictures of our aid station or of our team, just let me know. I have ordered a digital camera and I expect it to be here in the middle part of April or maybe the first part of May, so I will be taking plenty of pictures to share with anyone who wants to see them. I cannot send pictures that involve compromising our position or giving away sensitive military information, but I can definitely show you our smiling faces and some of the medical tasks we perform on a daily basis!
With respect and thanks
PFC *****

Today I received two Care Packages. I emptied both and split them even into the two boxes, and Monday I will fly out to two of our COMBAT OUT POSTs in ***** and *****. I will give the soldiers there the boxes. I know they will appreciate it and I thank you for them. As an Officer my main duty is to take care of the soldiers.
If you and your group want to continue to send packages I will be faithfully distribute them to soldiers both here on FOB **** and the surrounding areas.
Because of those like you that support the troops deployed, it allows us to have that little piece of home that we all so often miss.
Thank you again! And God Bless each one of you!

Debbie, DJ, Trish and Fern
I wanted to give you a big thanks for the care package I received, oops over a week ago.
We all, here at HHC STB, 1st Sust BDE--more in particular the TMC (troop medical clinic), appreciate your kindness and support. Any items that were not taken immediately upon opening the box, or that I did not keep for myself--candy, was placed on the front of the clinic for other soldiers who come for care here to take with them. Everything has been shared with everyone here.

To the amazing ladies and gentlemen at Operation Care Package,
On behalf of my soldiers and I here in Delta 4-3 ADA we greatly thank you for your continuing support for us troops deployed overseas. Your care packages have been coming in and every time one of us gets one we are very pleased. Thank you again so much and keep up the support!!
V/R
Delta 4-3 ADA

We received your package. It was overwhelming. Thank you so much for the comics and food. The minute I brought the package everyone start digging in. We appreciate all the cards as well.
Sincerely,
Leonardo

A HUGE "THANK YOU" to all of you Great Americans for supporting our Nation's Sons and Daughters with your tremendous generosity! Attached are some pictures for you to enjoy!
CH (CPT) Roland ***

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND EACH ONE OF YOU.
Thanks to think about our soldiers far away from our lovely nation. People like you set the example and give to us hope to demostrate to the world that our mission is to keep the peace and security worldwide. Again, thanks and the peace of god be with each one of you and your family members. everything were goooood.
Sincerely,
SFC CUEVAS ****

Hi Debbie, Dj, Trish, & Fern,
Thank you for your note, your thoughts, and the care package that arrived today. I hope all of you and your families are doing well. It is so nice of you to volunteer to help take care of men and women serving overseas by sending the care packages.
My team and I greatly appreciate the things you sent and will enjoy them. We are all doing our best and looking forward to wrapping up our tours here. I have just under 4 months to go and hope to be home for Independence Day.
May God continue to Bless You and your efforts,
Dean

OCP Gang,
My name is Jesus ****** I'm from Chicago Ill, I just met my 3 year mark in the ARMY and I enjoy it. I received your care package, and I wanted to show you my gratitude.
This is my first deployment and it's amazing how much support we receive. I really appreciate all the love and support. Every time we receive a package it brightens up our day. You would be surprised how much a letter or a care package really changes our day. I know it makes me feel proud to serve in the armed forces.
I spend about 12 hours a day working and work out every night to improve my physical fitness and combat readiness. I intend to stay in the ARMY for 20 years. I have been here for three months and can't wait to go back home.
Once again, thank you for all your support.
From
SPC ******

Hello OCP team!
This is the quickest way for me to say thanks, and that I appreciate the package you sent me. I read all of the comments on the two papers. I would also like to thank the Veterans. It is a great feeling receiving a package no matter who it is from, it means a lot more when it is from people who don't know us and who care for what it is that we are doing.
Very Respectfully,
SFC (P) Jose A. ****

Hi there,
My name is CS1(SW) Sophal **** I want to take this opportunity to say Thank you for all the packages this organization has sent me and the other sailors. I can see the smiles on the sailors face and myself when we open this box. Knowing that someone back in the states do really care and appreciate what we do out here.
Once again, I would to say thank you very much for what you do for us. God Bless you!
Sincerely,
Sophal ****

Ladies and Gents,
I really appreciate the stuff we received from you. It means a lot to have Citizens like you at our backs. You have no idea how much it means to me. Take care in your daily endeavors and stay strong behind my good brothers and sisters.
Sincerely,
Rich

My name is SGT ****, I recently sent a request for care packages for my troops and me. I just want to say God bless all of you for your support and we greatly appreciate the care packages that you sent us. It really cheers up our day when we get the support from so many people that we dont even know. It's nice to know that so many people care. Have a great day and once again thank you.
Sincerely
SGT ****

Friend,
My name is First Lieutenant **** **** and my team and I are embedded in a compound in the Providence of Afghanistan.. That means we live on our own floor inside their compound (actually above their jail). We go weekly to the nearest FOBs. ***** does not have a store and ***** recently closed theirs down because the FOB is closing. We go to the Combat Stress building and they will hand us random packages and have an assortment of personal supplies, all donated.
I tell you this so you will understand how important you gesture of kindness is to the troops. We very much appreciate your care package and the fact that you are thinking of us. I am an old soldier and I know the young Joes are not good about writing or saying thank you but trust me, they appreciate it. Your package ended up with me and wanted to ensure that you knew it was received and very much appreciated. It's funny in this technological age, I have ok internet access and usually have electricity but simple essentials are like gold.
I am so glad to know there are Americans out there thinking of us even though the main stream media chooses to keep us at the bottom of the news topics. I hope you have a wonderful 2013.
Thanks again and best regards,
1LT **** ****

Just wanted to drop a thank you line to you and your organization. I just came back from R and R yesterday and I had plenty of packages from your organization and other companies like yours and was simply elated at the support that you've exhibited. I feel like Andy Dufrane from the ShawShank Redemption, when he asked for support and got an overflowing of packages. Again, thank you. Is there anything that myself or my department can do to show our appreciation for all that you do?
Brian ***
MWR Technician

Greeting,
My name is SFC *** On behalf of my team of 5 we would like to thank you very very much for the care package. We enjoyed them very much and also take some of the goodies for the kids in the local area we interact with, and you guys should see the happiness in their eyes.
Wish you all and your family well and we can't thank you all enough for having us in your thought and prayer.
Best Regard,
SFC Ben ****

This is CW2 Christopher ***.....live from Afghanistan.
I just wanted to e-mail you to let you know your care packages have been received and welcomed with open arms. I cannot express the gratitude that the soldiers and myself have for your support. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
The second thing that I would like to address is the note that was attached with the care package(s)....WOW! I have been in service for 17yrs and oversees 6 of those years, and I have never received such a heartfelt letter, in all this time, like the one that you all sent....thank you. You truly do not know how much a letter like that can inspire and motivate soldiers in trying times. I can tell that your letter is posted and kept in a very special place and when needed a nice reminder of why I, and any of the people that I work with, do the job that we do.
Again thank you for your support to our organization. You are very special people with hearts of gold, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart......God Bless.
Christopher ****
4/1 CAV Targeting Officer

Thank you soooooo much for the care package that was one of the best ones we’ve seen all deployment. I personally liked the playing cards from Harrah’s Casino because I’ve been their myself. I lived in Belvidere, Illinois for a few years and I went there with my dad one time. Thank you so much for the support, we’re all out here for you guys and we appreciate the thoughtful care package. We all love you too!!!
VFA-14 Maintenance Control

OCP Gang,
Thank you so much for all your support. I really appreciated the goodies you sent. I hope you enjoyed your trip to CA!!!! Everything is going fine here. I'm just taking it one day at a time. Can't wait to get back to TX!!!!!!! Thank you again,
2LT Thompson

Hello,
I wanted to thank you for sending me a package. I shared the contents with everyone I work with. I apologize that I didn't send you this email earlier. I'm starting my master program out here and it's taking a big chunk of my time.
Thank you again,
CPT Leonardo ****

We received another package!
Thank you all for sending us another package. I love drinking the Hot cocoa Krueger especially when it gets cold here. It'st weird but sometimes I miss the hot temperture of Iraq. I took a picture of the Soldiers I work with. When i get a chance I'll send it all to you. We love the Oreos as well.
Sincerely,
Leonardo ****

Team Operation Care Package,
I wanted to say thank you for sending care packages to the troops this year. There are two of us First Sergeants assigned to the 466th Air Expeditionary Group, which encompasses two squadrons and nearly 2000 Airmen embedded with the Army, Navy, Marines, and Coalition Forces. Your organization sent enough Christmas stockings for each of our members. Your generosity and sacrifice put a smile on many faces, and for that we are eternally grateful.
Please pass onto your staff our sincere appreciation and the difference they made in the lives of our deployed warriors.
VR,
DAVID M. *****

Dear American Patriots,
I was overwhelmed with the care packages that we received for the Holidays. It is sure comforting to know that great Americans as yourselves are working selflessly to support our Troops. The personal notes that were written are an excellent display of the strong character of our Nation. It is an honor to serve and proud to be an American.
Respectfully
Fabian
COL Fabian *****

We just received a second care package from you and your fine organization. It is a nice perk to get snacks we don't get to see over here. My guys and myself appreciate all you do for us over here.
Thanks so much
Jimmy ****
USAF

Hello,
I just wanted to express my gratitude and say thank you for the care package I received in the mail yesterday. It was incredibly nice to come off of a mission yesterday after several days on the road and have a package waiting for me :D. The timing couldn't have been better. Having not shaven in three days and all out of razors, I was hoping to make it to the PX to buy some razors before my commander saw my face haha...and the snacks we're perfect after eating MRE's for a few days strait!
Operation Care Package has hooked us up pretty well since we've been in Afghanistan. I don't know who all responds with anything to express their gratitude but it truly is appreciated. Thanks again and God Bless!!
Sincerely,
Sergeant Shaun *****

Hello,
Thank you so much Debbie Smothers and the OCP Gang for the wonderful care package with the great supplies in it!!!!
Please keep the care packages going with snacks and what you can send. It sure is a morale booster for the Soldiers in my unit. Thank you once again for what you are doing, it is so greatly appreciated.
God Bless From 359th ICTC

I want to thank you for everything that you have done. Everyone in the photo attached has received a small piece of your gift and from the bottom of everyone's heart we want to Thank You. It is amazing the power of small gifts and the profound impact a small care package can have. I am extremely grateful for your gifts.
It's amazing how much a small thing like potato chips can change a whole day, a piece of chocolate can bring light to a hard day. I am on the first level in the center wearing sunglasses.
To let you know a little about me, I am from Brooklyn, NY, and I will have to say I am a bit of a cookie and potato chip monster, and the gifts that you provided were awesome.
I am sorry for the delay, but I want to just say Thank You.
Captain Dennis ****

Hey hows it goin. My name is AD3 Austin *****.
I am currently deployed in japan right now and my shop and I had received a care package you particitpated in for operation care package. I was just wanted to send a thank you letter to say how much I appreciate yall thoughts and prayers. I wouldn't be able to do things I do without the support from you. It always puts a smile to hear from people like you and know that there are good hearted people out there thinking of us.
If you have any questions for me I would be happy to reply whatever I can. Hope you had a great christmas and new years.
Very Respectfully,
AD3(AW) Austin

My squadron is currently deployed overseas, and we just received a ton of gifts from you guys.
I just wanted you guys to know how much we appreciate what you are doing. It makes a huge difference when we walk in and see mail for the holidays. Thank you to everyone that contributed their time and resources.
Sincerely,
AT3 Thorland

Dear Operation Care Package Volunteers:
Thank you very much for the care packages you have sent to me and my colleagues. It was a very nice surprise to receive a care package during the holiday period. I really appreciate all the thoughtful things you included in the care package--especially the sweets! Thanks for taking the time to remember us--that means a lot to all of us over here. Happy Holidays to you all.
Sincerely,
Dean
Colonel, US Army

I really want to thank the Operation Care Package for the awesome package I just received. All full of amazing gifts!!! I loved the Christmas blanket I will keep it forever! I personally want to thank Maya for her inspirational drawing. Thank you once again for all the gifts and the Christmas wishes. Ho Ho Ho!
Thank you!!!
Isabel
Deployed Onboard USS Stennis

HELLO,
Thank you for your packages to the unit. My battle buddies and I really appreciate them. ALSO, thank you for the thoughts behind putting the packages together, as we found some very useful items inside all of them. THANK YOU ALL AGAIN. Have a safe Holiday season and a blessed new year.
v/r
SGT******
261st MCT
Kandahar Airfield

I wanted to send a very sincere thank you for the care package. I actually received it a week ago, but things here have been pretty hectic to say the least. I wanted to let you know that I appreciate the time and effort you and your group put into supporting the troops. Thank you!
James

Operation Care Package,
My name is Michelle and I am currently deployed to Afghanistan. I want to thank you for my stocking, it brought a smile to my face. I just received it and I have already worn the socks and stashed some of the snacks in my HMMWV for our next mission.
A special thanks goes out to Raymond Fritz of New Windsor, MD. Thank you for your service in WWII, you're one of the reasons I can fight so proudly today. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thanks Again,
Michelle

While passing out Christmas stockings to the Airmen here in Kabul, ran across this letter from one of the school children which is very touching and will be taped to my wall. Thanks Alyssa Lynn Scudder for writing this touching description of a veteran...
"A veteran is someone brave. They go out and risk their lives for us. No one can thank anyone enough for that. Veterans are so heroic. They have to train and train and train. It's absolutely amazing that someone is that courageous. ... A veteran is also mentally strong. They don't get to see their friends or family for a long time. I know that being a veteran is a great honor. A veteran is very important to everyone. They are fearless, courageous, mentally strong, hardworking, dedicated, protecting, and brave. If you took a veteran and put him/her into words it would be those words."

Sir/Ma'am,
I'm currently serving a 365 day deployment to Kabul, Afghanistan. As is my nature, I arranged with some friends to do Christmas stocking and gift bags for all the service members working with and around me. But it was such a pleasant surprise to have one of your Christmas stockings waiting for me on Christmas morning. I appreciate that you and your volunteers think of the deployed troops, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.
Thank you,
Kris *****, USAF

Debbie,
I just wanted to say "Thank you" for the beautiful red Christmas stocking I received today, courtesy of Operation Care Package. It was filled with candy and other good stuff that I and my co-workers will enjoy sharing this Christmas season. The stocking was given to me on Camp Eggers, in Kabul, Afghanistan. Thank you for enhancing our morale by remembering a whole bunch of U.S. Air Force "Bluesuiters"--you made our day!
God Bless You and the work you do.
Merry Christmas,
Joe

Dear Operation Care Packages,
I wanted to take a minute and send my thanks to all of you back home for the care packages we just received today! As I went to bed last night I was thinking about being back home and was imagining all the fun times that my family was having during this Christmas morning. I was completely surprised when I woke up and stepped outside my room to see the entire hallway lined with stockings at each door. It was a great feeling and brought a little piece of me back home to the excitement, warmth and love that Christmas brings.
Thank you so much for the wonderful surprise but more so for the thoughts and care that came with each stocking! It made my day!
1Lt Billy *******

Hello,
I am CPT Mandy C*** and I would like to thank you all very much for the care package.
I waited until Christmas to open the package as instructed and it was wonderful. I love the golf club! I also would like to thank Dylan Pliska for the letter. His letter was a great present for me on Christmas here. He had some questions: my favorate color is Red, I like to gold and run outside. Right now we are in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Which is in the south so it stays pretty warm, a couple of days it has rained but no snow.
Thank you all again. Merry Christmas!
CPT ****, Mandy

Dear Ms. Smothers and volunteers at Operation Care Package,
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your care packages are so generous! We received the packages you sent before Christmas, and we used some of the goodies in our Christmas party. Being away from family and friends is difficult during this season, but your kindness is another reminder of the love that permeates this time of year. Our office consists of military in uniform and civilians. The majority of us hail from Tampa or the Washington, DC area.
Again, thank you for your generosity - the packages were great!
Happy New Year!
Regards,
Bob

Hello!
I am a deployed member here at Camp Eggers in Afghanistan on my first deployment and received one of your Christmas stockings. I just wanted to send you my sincere thanks for the kindness you extended to us over here. It was very thoughtful and helped bring some holiday cheer to help make being away from home during this time a little easier.
I'm so thankful from the bottom of my heart for the support from back home and grateful that we are thought of. Merry Christmas!
V/R,
Maria *******, 1st Lt, USAF

Dear Debbie and Fern,
I have to say thank you for all the dedication that you put into sending us care packages. B-Troop thanks you both as well.
We received the packages a few days ago and there was more than enough items to go around for everyone. We really appreciate the gifts especially the microwave and coffee maker as we did not have these items. You made us feel at home because it was like Christmas opening all of the packages. Nice touch with the stockings too. We placed stockings on the troopers' bunks who were inbound, joining us for this deployment. Everyone was very pleased to get a stocking. :)
Thanks again,
Troopers from Bandit Troop, 5th Squadron, 7th US Cavalry!!

Hello Debbie,
I just wanted to drop you a line and let you know I was a recipient of one of your care stockings here at Shindand AB, Afghanistan. I am serving with the 445th AEAS and just wanted to let you know I had received one of the stockings, and how much I personally appreciate your support of us over here downrange. It brings a little bit of home to us all separated from our families and home during the holidays.
Thanks for all you do,
V/R
LEE M. ***** TSgt, USAF

Ms. Debbie,
I just want to say thank you for the care packages we received. We greatly appreciate what you did for us as well as other fellow soldiers. We really enjoyed the stockings. We have them hanging up. It feels good to know that we are appreciated and have others caring for us along with our families. We ask that you continue your prayers for the troops and we will as well. Once again thank you so much.
Sincerely,
The 1-167th IN BN Family

Hello Proud Supporters of the United States Military,
My name is SSG Steven ******, I am a platoon Sergeant in the 1461st Transportation company stationed in Afghanistan.
Recently all the Soldiers in my platoon received a care package from your organization. I just wanted to take the time to send an email and tell you that the packages brought smiles to my Soldiers faces. We are appreciative of all the support and care that you all put into sending these packages out to Soldiers serving overseas.
During this Holiday season some Soldiers are truly missing their families and the normal routine of the Holiday season. Receiving packages from Americans that just want to show their support and gratitude to the troops, is a great feeling of pride.
Thank you again for the support SSG ******!!

HELLO!
I received your care package and would like extend my deepest gratitude for your selflessness and LOVE. It has certainly come at a great time as I was running out of goodies from the PX. I think what you do is so great and I want to let you know that I really appreciate it.
A little about me, I am a Battalion Signal Officer and work on radios and internet. I mostly plan and manage but there are times when I get my hands dirty with the "work" and that's really my favorite part. I am from St. Louis and have three kids, Sophia, Blair and Trevor and a wife, Missy. I work full time for the Missouri National Guard in St. Louis.
I hope this email finds you well and with smiles on your faces. PEACE and LOVE!!!
Respectfully,
CPT JOHN *****
"WORKHORSE 9"

Debbie,
I wanted to let you know that I received all your care packages with the Christmas stockings. One word - WOW! Thank you so much for your generosity to our troops!!
The following is some of the groups that received some of the stockings:
Wounded Warrior Clinic
Explosive Ordinance Disposal
Ariel Porters
Base Hospital
Base Contacting and Legal
Dog Handlers
Some extras were given to the USO to distribute to additional troops at Kandahar.
Everyone was very excited to receive the stockings. We are grateful to folks like you that support us each and every day. Please pass on our thanks to your entire organization.
Thanks again and best regards.
MSgt Chad ****

Good Morning,
I just wanted to send a quick email and thank your organization for all you've done for the soldiers of 3ID who have been receiving your care packages while stationed in Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Your packages bring a smile to the face of many soldiers and it is definitely appreciated. I along with SSG Mancill personally hung your beautiful cards throughout the entire office for everyone to enjoy.
As I sit writing this email one of the 3ID officers approached me and stated that he didn't know so many people still cared and was very overwhelmed by the ongoing support and care. That gave me even more of a reason to let you know just how much you all are appreciated. Thank you so much!
Sheila

Hello,
My name is Cullen. I'm in the Air force and stationed in Afghanistan. We received your care package today with socks, assorted candy and other moral items, and I just wanted to say thank you so much. It means the world to me and the guys I'm here with to receive these things - it makes being away from our family and friends around this time just a little easier.
On a side note, I am actually from a little south of Joliet a town called Kankakee. I'm sure if you haven't been there you at least know of it haha. So it's really awesome to receive something from so close to home. But I'll wrap this up by saying thanks so much it really means a lot to all of us - keep up the amazing work.
Merry Christmas and happy new years
God bless
Cullen

Operation Care Package,
I wanted to send a quick to note to thank all of you for your patriotic and thoughtful efforts! I received one of you care packages a couple of days ago and was moved by the care, attention, and thought that were put into it. It is people like you that motivate military personnel to do what we do. Thank you all for taking time out of your day to think of us!
Please continue what you are doing! Here is wishing you all Happy Holidays!
Chris

All,
Appreciate what you all do. I speak for all of us here in Iraq when I say thank you and keep up the good work. We really appreciate it. We always look forward to mail day, which comes once a week here. Thanks again.
v/r
Rick

Here's a picture we took the other day (our official deployment photograph) We have quite a lot of people! Thanks again, we just received a couple more packages today with stockings.. I'm passing them out to my people as soon as we get them, and it definitely makes their day!! I can't thank you enough!
Lt ******

I just wanted to say thank you for the care package. It is wonderful to know that we are in your thoughts and prayers. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
V/R
CW2 Jonnathan

The packages from Operation Care Package began arriving this week. Thank you so very much for your support to the troops. They have the exact effect I'd hoped for. The guys have come to develop an unspoken policy of opening these packages in front of everyone, so the items of each box are shared with all upon arrival.
You are all wonderful people. So many organizations, groups, and individuals were represented in those care packages. Very heartwarming. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Truly,
Tim

Debbie and team,
We just got a package from you!!! We opened it up and were so excited! The food and supplies were instantly dispersed to all the airmen! They were all so excited! Now we have the coffee brewer as a free Christmas raffle! I’ll send you a picture of it soon! You guys are all way too sweet, and just know that you made a huge difference with that package! Thank you so much!!! You are helping to make their Christmas a great one even though they’re apart from their families!
-Thomas and the Gamblers

To All,
I'm Petty Officer First Class ****, United States Navy. I'm currently on watch in Shindand, Afghanistan. I received a care package here with all kinds of greetings, snacks and good ol' warmth from all of you. I tried to find every email address though some I could not read. However, please share my email and joy to everybody you know.
I want each and every one of you to know that I do what I do because it gives me great pride. I'm very proud to serve my country and would do it all over again if I had the chance. I'm currently over sixteen years of service and wish I could do another sixteen. I reside in Florida with my beautiful wife and five boys. I know the hurt of missing my family but I know the happiness of walking off that plane and into their arms as well. I've got big plans to do some fishing with my boys and spending time with my best friend, my wife.
I can't tell you all how much it means to us to see the caring you all provide. It does bring tears to a grown mans eyes but those are happiness tears and tears to be thankful that we live in the greatest nation with the greatest people.
I will be on "watch" so I want you to have a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Holiday Season and of course a Happy New Year. God Bless each and every one of you and your families.
UT1 ******
Camp Commandant

To all of our Friends (too many to name) at Operation Care Package, and the numerous schools, churches, organizations, businesses and patriotic Americans who take their time, effort and resources to give back to all of us deployed overseas around the world.
We love you all and appreciate the sacrifice you and your family make every day as well, along with the love, prayers and joy you extend to all of us overseas.
God bless you and Happy Holidays to all of you, especially Natalie for the lovely Christmas card. :)
Respectfully,
CDR James ******, SC, USN
Umm Qasr, Iraq Site Lead

Hi Ms. Smothers,
We received a November package from you all... Thank you so much!! I know it was very well liked -- my guys on the flightline definitely enjoyed the sweets and treats. (The box was gone before the end of the day :) Appreciate all the support on your end. We're going to try and send a picture your way of all our guys (soon as I can get a copy of the photo)
Thanks again!
Lt *******

Hello,
I just wanted to thank all of you for supporting the troops and sending out care packages. I received a care package recently from Operation Care Package and it was a real blessing to me. It is great to know that there are great Americans out there who are thinking about us.
Very Respectfully,
Perry *****
SFC, USA
1BCT, 101ST Airborne Division

First, I would like to say thank you for your thoughts and prayer.
Second, I would like to thank everyone involved for the Christmas package that I received from you, it was awesome!
Third, I would like to thank Jayden from West Elementary in Michigan for the AWESOME coloring that he sent me!
Thanks for all the support, it makes doing what we do easier knowing that it is appreciated by the people back home!
Respectfully,
SSG L *******
Rangers Lead The Way!

Hey, Debbie!
Just want to thank you and let you know that I received a Care Package with several Christmas stockings stuffed with goodies today. I had enough to give everyone that I work with a stocking. It was really cool and much appreciated. We have them hanging up in our office.
Thanks again and Have a Merry Christmas!!!
Thank You,
Jason *****
Fire Prevention Specialist

Greetings!!!
I just received your christmas package and read each message from each of you with the blessings, kind words and items to support the troops. I shared my gift package with other troops that make their day and forwarded what we have in excess to the troops on the forward lines. We don't have the words to express the moments of happiness we have each day from these kind words and gifts. It makes the difference in a mood, day and overall morale in the troops that receive your gift boxes.
I have a picture to attach to show my thankful face that doesn't give any any infomation to keep with military law.
Linda & Diane,
Thank you for the quilt!!
If I get to take a picture of me using it to keep warm, I'll send a picture!!!
Thank you once again.
Kevin

Thank you for your the packages that you send to my fellow comrades.
You definitely placed a smile on our face especially with the Golf Clubs. We were ecstatic. Same goes for all the other items.
Again, thank you for all that you do for all of the troops overseas. God bless you all.
v/r
W01 ****, Christian

Hello there!
I wanted to pass along my sincere appreciation for the care package!
I arrived in Iraq on Veteran's Day (a month later than planned) and it was waiting for me upon my arrival. I can't tell you how nice it was to read all the personal notes and to know that someone is thinking of us while we are deployed. You all are a wonderful testament to the greatness that is America. I especially appreciate the greeting cards, girl scout cookies, the glasses cleaning cloth, the sunscreen and the hand soap.
If you are looking for other ideas on what to pack, I would highly recommend some very thick hand lotion (like gold bond) as it is very dry here and the hands (and face!) take a beating. Thanks, again! I will make a point to look you up on-line.
Sincerely,
Lisa

I would like to personally thank you and your organization for supporting the 260th Engineer Support Company while over here in Afghanistan. The packages that you sent with the personal hygiene items, cookies, candy, and other snacks will be used when we go out on missions. It is a little piece of home that brings us closer while so far away. It is the great positive attitudes of Americans like you that will carry our country into the future to do great things. In the picture below are the men and women of the 260th Engineer Support Company. We salute you for taking the time to make a difference for others that matter. Please keep up the support of the troops until the last one comes home.
ROGER ********
CPT, EN, MTARNG
260 EN SPT CO
COMMANDING

Hello to all,
I would like to thank Operation Care Package for sending me a care package. I received it today. The box was heavy for its size and it was pack full of stuff. I don't think I'll unpack it all today.
Thank You for your thoughts, time, and effort in planning, collecting, packaging, and shipping these care packages to all Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen deployed. It is the small gestures of kindness and the "Thank You for your service" that brighten and uplift us in Uniform.
Thank you,
SSG William *****

Debbie and everyone else with OCP
My soldiers and I just received some packages in the mail from OCP within the past few days. They are all very appreciative and wanted me to say thank you for them.Thank you for doing what you do. We all appreciate it.
-Sgt Bick
By the way we have about 60 days left out here before returning back home to Illinois.

I am deployed to Iraq to fulfill our Security Assistance Mission. Here is a picture of me in a Huey flying over Baghdad to meet our Iraqi Air Force Counter-parts. We are helping them build a strong military so that we don't have to come back here again!
Very windy up there--no doors on the helicopter.
Very Respectfully,
Devereux *********, Capt, USAF

Ma'am,
My name is LTC ******* and I have been stationed here in Iraq since July 2012, and plan to return in late June 2013.
Yesterday at mail call I received the best care package I've ever seen, which was sent on October 11, 2012. Please know that all care packages are wonderful, but this one is the granddaddy of them all! A fabulous care package loaded with treats, candy bars, letters of encouragement from young adults (high schoolers), younger children and adults, BBQ sauce, cards, books, DVDs, candy, a rosary (I'm Catholic), coffee, Tabasco spiced slim jims, Girlscout cookies, Guideposts magazine, and lots and lots of other wonderful things that bring us a bit of our great country.
I don't know how your team fit it all in this box! I will share this box with our other Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines stationed here and know that they too have just received similar care packages, likely from OCP.
I've heard about your organization since 2006 when I first deployed to Afghanistan, and received packages then as well. Reading your website, I see that you exist in part on donations from the general public. I can assure you that we do not feel forgotten, and OCP plays a major part of that.
Please know that we very much appreciate these care packages, and I want to thank you for everything you do to support our men and woman stationed away from home. Thank you again for all you do, and thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.
Our warmest regards to you and your wonderful organization.
Respectfully, Douglas *******

Hello there!
Just wanted to let you all know that we did receive your care package and are very thankful for you kindness.
Your package arrived safe and sound to our little base here in central Baghdad just across the street from the US Embassy.
It is through the kindness of people like you that brings smiles to our faces here in Iraq and reminds us that we are still being thought of.
Have a wonderful day!
Captain Steve ******
US Army
Baghdad, Iraq

Debbie and the OCP Gang!
I have received your package today. Thank you sooo much!!
Your continued support raises our morale constantly. I cannot thank you enough for what you have and continue to do for us. I wish to inform you, I will be coming home soon,
My replacement will be at this same address. His name is Ephraim *******. He will be here during the holidays. I would like to let you know this so not to send any more packages in my name but if you can with his name, I'm sure he will be surprised and very thankful.
Thank you so much.
v/r
Eric ******

My name is CPT V. ****** and I am the company commander for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AASLT!) out of Fort Campbell, KY. My company and I are currently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
I received 2 boxes from you ladies today and I wanted to say thank you so much for all the goodies inside. I have *** people in my company and the Soldiers are definitely grateful to get packages from home, and from people like you who support and care about us!
Again, thank you so very much! We appreciate the support.
V/R,
CPT V. *******

Dear Debbie and all at Operation Care Package,
I am not sure how I was put on your list of Soldiers to receive packages but thank you, myself and my Soldiers have enjoyed them.
I am a Sergeant First Class serving as the Platoon Sergeant for the Distribution Platoon in Dakota Troop 3-61 CAV in Afghanistan. The picture is my platoon in front of our gun trucks, I am on the far right. Our mission is to deliver supplies to the Squadron's Troops on the Forward Operating Bases. I joined the Army originally partly to serve our country and partly because my Grandfather served in Europe during WWII. I continue to serve for the same reasons.
I would again like to thank you all for the packages that you have sent to me and for all of the packages that you send and continue to send. I also need to let you know to not send any more packages to me as I will be headed home in November. I changed units about three months into the deployment so you have me listed with 4IBCT, 4ID. Thank you.
Regards,
Thomas ******

Hi Everyone,
I'd like to extend my sincere appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to all of you, and the men, women, boys and girls of Operation Care Package in Joliet, IL, who take time out of their busy lives to make a difference in our lives over here in Iraq.
I am the Site Lead or Base Commander for Contingency Operating Base (COB) Umm Qasr, Iraq. We are located within the Iraqi Naval Base Umm Qasr.
The care package you sent is very much appreciated by all of the camp's population, as it is distributed to non-US military members after the military has taken out items they want to keep. :) We have many Third Country Nationals on our camp who provide security and other services to us, and do not make as much money as our American armed forces. So everything they can get from other sources is a blessing.
Please know that what you all do does not go unnoticed and is well received by all here in Iraq.
Thanks again for your prayers and support. We pray that your families will be richly rewarded and highly favored beyond your expectation.
God bless you! Loved little Aeries's hand outline.
Sincerely,
CDR J *******
Supply Corps, United State Navy

Dear friends,
We want to express our sincere gratitude for the packages your organization sent us. We are deeply touched that so many Americans, despite busy lives of their own, would take the time to think about some of the men and women overseas. It really shows what a wonderful country we have and it serves as a clear reminder of why we are over here.
I wanted you to see the recipients of your kindness, so I am attaching a photo of our section. We work as military planners for the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq, located in Baghdad. In the photo, you see our team.
Again, we greatly appreciate the packages and your efforts to remind us that while we serve in distant lands away from our families, we have such a great country that has not forgotten us.
In kindest regards,
******
LTC, AV, US Army

Dear friends,
I will take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.
I was the one who received your wonderful care package.
You all provided the very reason why I have served for 27 years and counting.
May God Bless you and keep you safe.
Sincerely ,
Kurt
P.S. The Army made me strong, God made me stronger

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your thoughtfulness and the care packages. It truly makes things easier when we know folks still think and support us back home. As you can imagine, some things are quite challenging in a deployed environment but the love that is evident in the boxes are truly a day brightener.
I have attached a picture of my team so you can see the smiles you brought to our faces. As you can see, we are three Active Duty Military and two contractors. We (military) are all on one year deployments and as the lone Air Force member and leader of my team I often find myself outnumbered. However, I have chalked it up to a leadership challenge and an opportunity to broaden my Army colleagues horizons. The days have been long and the challenges numerous but we continue to support each other in the absence of family and friends.
Thank you again for your generosity and may God continue to bless you and your loved ones.
Very respectfully,
******USAF

Wow... so today, the 1st Sargeant is going through mail call and I get up to go back to work, but the first person called is my name.
I didn't expect anything since last week my girlfriend had sent me a little package with toiletries and snacks. But, here it is. A nice, heavy package full of something the greatest things I have ever seen. Let me say that everything in this box is going to be eaten probably within the week (except the socks and toiletries). But, I am just so thankful that we have amazing people back at home that took time out of their day to send me something.
Words can't describe that feeling.
It's hard, even in our great country to find strangers helping strangers. I am truly humbled and appreciative. Thank you.
Some people who did not give out emails but I wanted to say thank you to Aeries:), Tim, Jared, Lois, and another name I, unfortunately, can't read... looks like Val??
Trisha, I will make sure to keep kicking ass, as long as these asses keep being one. I promise to bring mine back too!
Debbie, last year I did Tough Mudder, which was one of the hardest things I have done in my life, but I was blessed to do it along side wounded warriors and true heroes, in my eyes. Also, Go Air Force! Jamie, I hope this is a speedy one as well. I have a beautiful girlfriend and a 9 month old puppy i need to get back to.
Once again, thank you so for much for everything. God bless everyone of you and I will never forget your kindness. If you don't mind, I'll be paying it forward to some of my airman tomorrow before we head out. Stay safe, pray for my brothers and sisters everywhere, and for our leaders.
Forever humbled by your hearts,
SSgt ********, USAF

Ladies,
First off, let me say that it warms my heart to know there are still people back home who haven't forgotten that America is still at war. And that means our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, DoD civilians, contractors, and other government agency types.....(have I left anyone out?) are still deployed in harm's way. So to think that you take the time out of your days to solicit, collect, gather, separate, bag, package, stuff, pack, tape, address, haul, and mail these care packages (and I'm sure I left out at least 20 other elements off this list) is nothing less than awesome! I can't say thank you enough!
I look forward to the day when I can put this country in my rearview mirror, but until then, I will enjoy all of the items you've sent me. I hope all of your loved ones who are deployed return home to you safely and soon.
Thank you again,
Craig

Miss Debbie,
I wanted to start of by thanking you and the entire Operation Care Package Group for thinking of us. The boxes we received are greatly appreciated, and a great morale booster. All of us onboard USS Iwo Jima would like to extend our thanks to those back home who are supporting us while we are away from home. Even the smallest of gestures makes this deployment easier. So again, thank you for all that you do.
LCpl *****

I am a retired Sergeant who is still serving this great nation as a contractor after 22 short years as a member of the United States Army. I am station at FOB Sharana, Afghanistan and just yesterday received a short note from your area support group dedicated to the soldiers of this great nation. I am writing to you to let you know that the majority of your goodies went to the troops of the 82nd Airborne Division Station at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. I was lucky enough to get a candy bar and the most precious piece of material within the box; your letters. It is amazing how we still have people that cares about our troops who are giving up their freedom and time to be with their families in order to support our country.
From the bottom of my heart, from all the soldiers at the 82nd Airborne Division, and from the incoming soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division (Fort Riley, Kansas) we thank you for taking the time to pray not just for the soldiers but for Soldier, Government Civilians, and for the Contractor who are still serving this great nation. God Bless you all and once again Thank you.
"We Care"
V/r
Carlos

My name is EOD1 Brendan *****
I am a US Navy Bomb Disposal Technician that is over here in Afghanistan, and I am the fortunate recipient of one of your care packages that you sent overseas. I wanted to thank you for taking the time to gather everything and mail it over to me. I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate that. I am in a rather remote area and we don't get a lot of mail out here as a result, but it was like a mini-Christmas to get a care package from you. Everything in that box has been put to use by me and the other guys out here. It was great to get all those treats, magazines, and much needed toiletry items. Thank you again for taking the time to do that for me and many other guys here in Afghanistan. We all appreciate that very much. You take care and thank you again.
Cheers,
Brendan *****
PS: I know it says you are a Proud Army Sis, so I hope you don't mind supporting a Navy guy like myself. If it helps I am attached to an Army unit, so some of the goodies went to them as well.

Everyone,
I just received a box from Operation Care Package, this is a great program with a great cause. This is the fifth box I have received in my 6 months away, from various organizations like yourself. I appreciate every single one and all the hard work, time and dedication that goes into preparing and sending these packages. I am so glad to know that the people back home (that don't even know us) think about the troops in their absence. You can tell Margaret that the socks I received are a perfect match and I am wearing them as I type. I really appreciate the letter, it painted a picture of home for me. I can't wait to see the green grass or brown grass or SNOW! lol I'm sure you guys will beat 1300 dinners with your delicious spaghetti once the word gets out. You're all such great people.
A special thanks goes out to all of you from all of us.

I wanted to drop you a line and say thank you for the wonderful care package I received today. It was a box of sunshine from the US and really made my day. I can honestly say I never thought I would be excited to receive a box with plain white sox in it! The shear variety of snacks, books, and care items was truly amazing.
Thank you for the package!
Mike USN

Thank you very much for the care package and the letters that you sent me! I am very grateful for people like you who do so much to support us!! I truly believe that you are the unsung heroes that don’t get the credit that you deserve for what you do for us.
I will share the package with my fellow Marines and they all said to thank you as well!! I hope that you are well and know that we will be keeping you in our prayers as well from now on!
Thank you so much again!!
Chris
Semper Fidelis

THANK YOU!
Yesterday I received a package from OPERATION CARE PACKAGE. I cannot tell you how much something so simple means to those of us out here. Thank you for taking the time to put together the wonderful package with treats and fond reminders of home. The included notes and letters warmed my heart and came on a day when I really needed a little bit "extra."
Yesterday my son had surgery (nothing major, thank God), but of course that means nothing to a mother who is too far away to hold her son's hand and be there when he wakes up. Opening the package was a little like Christmas in August, brought smiles to my face, and kept my mind off my personal situation if even for a little while. Thank you so much for making this difficult day a little easier!
It humbles me that after all these year since 9/11/01, that so many still support our troops so strongly. I guess it's because the news never reports the support, and makes it seem like our country has forgotten we are over here. The OPERATION CARE PACKAGE team is amazing and I appreciate all you do for us Servicemebers over here. Thank you for not forgetting.
Thank you again and God Bless!
*** *******

I received a wonderful package from OCP today - what a surprise!
On behalf of the men and women serving here in Iraq, those in Afghanistan, and all the Airman, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Department of Defense Civilians serving around the globe, THANK YOU! Knowing that there are Americans who are willing to take time out of their busy lives to think about us means a lot.
The next time I get home I hope I get a chance to visit Joliet and maybe even catch a race at the speedway! By the way, please pass along my thanks to Trish, Fern, Gini, Lyn, DJ, Lois, Joan, Heather, Donna, Carol, Kathy, Laurie, Kathryn, Irene, Rebecca, Cassondra, Mariah, Leah, and the whole gang.
Warmest Regards,
Pete

I just want to say how much we appreciate your dedication and service to the men and women of the armed services. The other day our team received your package and we've already eaten most of it. Luckily, I won the battle for the gummy bears and sunflower seeds, but lost the coin toss for the Dave's BBQ sauce.
Thank you for everything you do - it's always makes our day when we receive mail...it means a lot to us.
God bless!
Nathan "Nate" ******
Iraq

Debbie,
Today I got the OCP care package and the content put a big smile in my face
My name is SSG Rafael *** and I've been in the U.S. Army reserve for 19 years.
My reserve U.S. Army unit is from Puerto Rico and we are doing our part here in theater. I'd like to thank you all for taking your time to support us so Hat's off to all of you.
PS. Thanks for the cookies, M&m's and socks :)
SSG. Rafael *****
******
USAR

I want to personally Thank everyone of you for the care package that you send to us. Words can't explain the gratitude that we feel for your support of the American war fighter. We do what we do because of great Americans like you. With that said, again THANK YOU !
Hurricane 3/3 out
V/R
SSG Michael *******

Please thank all the fine personnel at Operation Care Package. Their care, effort and time are greatly appreciated by all in the section. Receiving mail is always a definite morale boost around here. The treats and snacks go fast.
V/R
CPT **** Mc.....

My name is Angela *******,
I am currently at FOB Gamberi- Afghanistan. I received my third care package a couple of days ago! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! What u guys do is awesome!! Thanks for all the love and support! Every care package that u guys send makes my day!
I also wanted to let you know that I am well stocked for the rest of my deployment! thanks again!! ♥ :) God bless you and those who work with you.
Angie

Hello,
I just wanted to let you know that I received two care packages from you today. Thanks so much for all the goodies, socks ,CD's ,cards, and hygiene products. I truly love the cans of Chef Boyardee...LOL... My personal favorite! They will not go to waste and I will definitely share the wealth with the rest of the guys and gals that work in my area.
I especially want to thank the people that put the packages together. The best I can tell that would be you, of course, Trisha, Fern, Cindy, Christy Pina, Gail, Sandy, Fran, Giu,Tami ,Paul, Jared, Dylan, and Dawson Swearenger. If I missed anybody please thank them for me as well.
Again thanks so much for sending them to me and thank you so much for all you do for the troops. I know everyone here appreciates what you are doing and it does make a difference. Take Care!
Thank You,
Jason

Good Evening,
Thank you all so much for the care packages! They came at a great time and we will definitely get good use out of them. You folks definitely collected a wide range of items that will serve a purpose out here.
The letters in the package are right about the weather here, it is typically between 105-112F every day. With the Kevlar layers and plates in our body armor, it can be pretty bad. In the two months I have been here, it has rained once for about 30 minutes. We even felt an earthquake a week ago, but nothing to cause any harm. One great thing is there are virtually no mosquitoes, just lizards, snakes, and camel spiders.
I think it is pretty cool that you are in Joliet and the Chicago area. My best friend played football at Saint Francis and my sister lives in Plainfield, so I have spent some time in the area before joining the Navy. My parents still live in Melrose Park. I have even been to some of the Famous Dave's restaurants several times. After this deployment, I will be leaving Norfolk, VA and heading back to the Chicago area to work at Naval Station Great Lakes.
Thanks again for the packages!
Sincerely,
Nate ******

Thank you for All of your thoughts and prayers. The box that you sent was very thoughtful and meant a lot. I shared a lot of it with the other soldiers because I know everybody don't get anything. I helps me become one with soldiers that I never knew and get closer to those I did know. Its amazing how the smallest things can bring people together. My wife and kids thank you as well. Thank you for everything God Bless you all!!!!
SPC ******

On behalf of myself and my team, I would like to say THANK YOU!! Thank you for all your support back at home and all the letters we read. The holidays, to include Summer, are a million times better when we have your packages to open. Knowing that we have your support and prayers definitely make a difference in our day to day operations. Once again, I would like to express our gratitude by saying Thank You very much!
V/R,
SSG ********, Ruben

Friends,
I just wanted to say thank you for all you do!
Your kindness has helped the men and women of Camp Eggers through SOME difficult moments physically and emotionally.
Here's a few pictures to put faces behind the care packages and contributions to send.
We are truly blessed to have friends and advocates like you back home.
V/r
LARNELL *. *********, Major, USAF

My name is Lt Stephen ******* and I, along with my Marines, just received care packages from your organization. Thank you so much for your generosity. Mail days are always highlights out here. I most appreciated the socks. We go through them pretty quickly.
We are currently located in Central Helmand. It is quite warm out here. I'm from Oklahoma, and I hear from my folks yall are having a pretty warm summer in the US as well.
The Freedom Run sounds like a great event. I've never been to Illinois, but I think a trip to the memorial is defiantly on the “to do” list.
Once again, thank you. For a total stranger to take the time to send us packages is fantastic and much appreciated.
Take care,
Stephen

I just received your package and cannot thank you enough!
It is people like you that bring a smile to our faces and make us feel so appreciated. I cannot tell you how much that means to us; there are about 20+ of us in our flight and the Airmen just love when we get care packages. We all gather around when they get opened and it's like a bunch of hyenas waiting for a treat. Lol. A bunch of happy hyenas. : )
The weather has been pretty hot, today it got up to 106; I heard that November is the rainy month over here. Luckily, I will get to go home right before Christmas so I can be with my family.
Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Tracy
V/R, MSgt ********

Operation Care Package fans,
Thank you very much for your care package from the troops located in Farah, Afghanistan. Please accept the attached picture as a personalized thank you! We really appreciate your support!
V/R,
Marc
CPT, AV

Just wanted to drop a line an say Thank You for the care packages. They are much appreciated and, by the way, they disappear, have all the right stuff, and are thoroughly appreciated.
I am one of the group with SGM T. ******. Thank you for your support, it does make the separation from family and home feel much more worthwhile knowing there are people out there that care. Thank You again
"Bob"
Robert ********
LTC, FA

Hello Debbie and the OCP gang!!
(Debbie can you please forward to everyone involved??).
I just received a package full of goodies and wanted to drop you a quick note. I'm a platoon sergeant for a route clearance engineer platoon from Montana. We are a national guard unit deployed to camp leatherneck, Afghanistan for 9 months.
On behalf of 2nd Platoon, 260th Engineer Company, I want to extend a very strong THANK YOU!!! We have been here since June 20th, so we have a long time left before we go home. Things are going well. It's very hot, as you probably expected to hear, but we are adjusting very well. We started running our route clearance missions and things there are also going well. We have a dangerous job clearing the routes for convoys to travel down. We have a great group of kids and young adults here, which means I'm pleased with the maturity level of my platoon.
I'm a 32 year old happily married father of 3 boys, 5, 3.5, and 2. My wife has her hands full so when you pray for us please include my wife and all the other spouses. Several Soldiers left their families for the first time so we do have some homesick individuals. I have 4 young Soldiers who will miss the birth of a child due to this deployment so please pray for them also.
Thanks again for the package and spending your personal time taking care of the troops!!
SFC Morgan ********

On behalf of my shop here in Afghanistan, I and many others want to thank you for taking time out of your day to send us all these goodies! I for one am thankful for all the socks haha, We are currently Re-Deploying back the the states now, so just a few more weeks till we can start getting fat off fast food and beer!
Me and my counterparts are sorry we couldent respond the months prior due to being extreamly busy and little free time before passing out and waking up to do it all over again :)..but now that we are pretty much finished I don't know what do with myself, I just received one of your care packages (among the many through out deployment) about 5 min ago and happened to be by a computer, so I wanted to say thank you!
Please don't be upset if you don't get too many emails responding to your care packages, everyday is a long one for us all. I have been to alot of different places around Afghanistan and believe me I see all the stuff you guys send in all the offices and hangout spots all around and it makes a big difference!
Again Thank You,
Your Friend
SPC ******, Preston

Hello, my name is SGT Adam **** and I have recently received a care package from Operation Care Package and your email address was attached to it.
First let me say "Thank You". Receiving packages from complete strangers (although we are not strangers anymore ) is such a great feeling, I compare it to a child getting excited on Xmas morning. It is a combination of excitement and humbling at the same time. We don't feel like we are doing anything special when we deploy, just our jobs and for Americans to recognize that is awesome and sometimes a little embarrassing, but in a good way.
I wouldn't change a thing about being in the military, and having to leave my family for trainings and deployments. This is my 4th deployment, 3rd away from my wife. And although our lives are put on hold for months at a time my wife and I love this lifestyle.
A little bit about myself. I enlisted because of 9/11 and chose to be a medic. I have never worked in a hospital or clinic, I prefer being a line medic. I am currently attached to a Calvary Scout platoon out of FT Lewis. I just reenlisted for the 4th time, for another 5 years, which will give me 15 yrs in when this contract expires, although I fully intend on doing 20 yrs. I have been stationed in Texas twice, Germany and now Washington. With my latest enlistment my wife and I will be headed to Hawaii. So enough about me. lol
Again, thank you for what you do. Your packages really do make a difference in the daily lives of Soldiers. We really do appreciate everything that you do for us. Thanks again.
Adam ****

Thank you for volunteering with operation care package. My Soldiers and I recently received a few packages from you guys and it really meant a lot to us. I know all of you work very hard to make sure we recognize your appreciate and I wanted you to know it didn't go unnoticed. Conditions for Soldiers these days aren't nearly as bad as they were even a few years ago, but it still means a lot to hear from people back home! A year can be a long time from family, friends, and even just the comfort of being around what we're used to. The notes, snacks, and other supplies make it a little easier.
I hope all of you stay safe and enjoy the summer. If you have any family or friends that are in the military, I wish them the best and safety as well. Happy Independence Day!
Go America!
Once again, thank you so much!
1LT Patrick *******

Good afternoon all,
I would like to thank each and everyone of you all and everyone else that had a hand in this package that i received today!! Today is a day to celebrate, drink a little, BBQ and have a great time with friends and family and even though i am over seas thousands of miles away from all that and here at work. At first i was a little sad and upset at having to be at work on such an occasion but when the mail came and i received your package it made today fantastic!! It reminded me that even though i am here at work on the 4th of July and so far from family and friends, it's all for a good and satisfing reason. I am thankful everyday for people like you all, it remind me why I do the things I do and the sacrifices i make.

I loved everything in the package. it was put together with so much thought and true appreciation. I absolutely LOVED the cards from "Cards for troops to send home" it was so creative and cool. I'm a big card person and am sending home a card every chance i get, so these cards will definately be put to use. The quilt idea is awesome!! Blankets/quilts are always needed as they help to provide privacy from all the other people that reside in our room with us.

I just wanted to write each of you and express my appreciation. It means alot to know we are not over here just for the heck of it and to know we are not forgotten. What you all do for us is priceless and means the world to us. So thank you from the bottom of my heart and thank you from everyone else that has received one of your packages. Have a great 4th of July and drink one for me. :)

Tara

I just wanted to thank you guys at Operation care package for everything your doing.
My name is PFC ******** and i recently received a package from you guys here at FOB Tillman, highlight of my day. We are in a very isolated area and mail is one of the most important things to us. The feeling i get when I get word from home or even from a random person sending their thanks for what we do is impossible to put in to words. It lets me know that there's people out there who really appreciate what we're doing. Thanks again
PFC *******

I just wanted to THANK YOU again for your thoughtfulness and caring in sending my son a package! He was so surprised (pleasantly of course) and excited to receive it - and it happened to arrive right after a suspension on their mail drops had been lifted. Perfect timing! Anyway, thank you so much for including him - he was very appreciative and asked that I let you all know. I am not sure if he will be able to send a personal thank you, however please accept mine on his behalf if he does not have the opportunity.
What you are all doing is admirable - those guys and gals absolutely LOVE receiving mail and hearing from "home". From what Ryan says that is the highlight of most days...keep up the great work, and please if there is any way that I may be of assistance, do not hesitate to let me know :)
Many thanks -
Stephanie ********

To the Team at OCP, reserves, regulars & all volunteers past and present,
Although it doesn't come close to the gratitude i can express, I wanted to take a second and simply say 'thanks'.
I've been in the USAF for 12 years now. In 2006 I started deploying to the middle east. OCP continues up to this day to be a slice of home. I open up the packages while deployed and they make me smile as they remind me of what my mom would send me in college....seemingly random but totally heartfelt very useful stuff. Still makes me laugh.
I also cannot tell you how many Airmen in southwest Asia whose hearts you've helped warm during holidays deployed. Once you sent a care package with 20+ christmas stockings. As the crew commander, I didn't say anything about having them. I waited until midnight on the 24th to hang them on their doors. I waited for a few of them to come out. They smiled and it helped us forget where we were for awhile.
I could write volumes more about how much your efforts have kept us going but I'll spare you the pain. Haha.
Honestly though, thanks from all of us.
You are doing more than you know and more than we could ever thank you for.
With Gratitude,
Jason *******, Maj USAF

Hello,
My name is SFC Julia *****. I just wanted to send out a big "Thank You" for the cards for troops to send home program. I got a pack in the mail yesterday and used them all the first day I got back from R&R. They come in so useful for family and also for writing back the people who choose to write us while we are here. Just wanted to say thanks for the care packages and that we appreciate anything that makes our lives easier over here.
Thank you for your support! The cards and packages are wonderful~

Good Morning,
My team and I recently opened a care package with the above email addresses within a letter. As such, I would like to extend our appreciation for the gifts you all put together and sent out here to Afghanistan. It is always nice to receive things and know that we have the support of our fellow Americans back home. Thank you from my team and myself here at Torkham Gate, Afghanistan.

Sincerely,
LT N ******, OS1 F. *******, and OS2 C. *** US Navy TAC
DOMEX-A Team FOB TORKHAM,

Operation Care Package,
Good Morning from Kuwait! I'm 1LT Arin *******, the Battalion Adjutant for 4-5 Air Missile Defense deployed to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. One of my duties (that I love) as the Battalion Adjutant is thanking all of our supporters and care package senders from back home.

We received the package your group sent to us yesterday and I would like to tell you a little bit about what happens to donated items when we receive them here at Camp Arifjan. The Battalion Commander or Executive Officer will get a package and open it, then it is turned over to me for "inspection" where I ensure that there are no contraband items (I have yet to find any!). Once that important step is complete, I will remove the shipping labels as a safety precaution, then I place the items on our "Free Table" that is located in the hallway of our Battalion's Command Group building. From there it's a rush for the Soldiers to get the items.

What's wonderful to see, and I love passing this along, is that it is common to hear the Soldier's say "SPC Smith needs razors, give these to him." Or, "SGT Jones loves these cookies, I'll grab a box for her." Not only are they deployed to his dusty and dry desert, away from their families, but they still act unselfishly and remember those they work with. Not one item goes to waste.

So to Debbie, Pat, Trish, Fern, Gini, Lyn, DJ, Lois, Joan, Heather, Donna, Carol, Kathy, Laurie, Irene, and Cheryl - THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEVOTION AND SUPPORT, not just to us, but to everyone you send boxes of love to!

Debbie and Pat, could you please distribute this email to all of your assistants, I would like them to know how much we appreciate them here at 4-5 AMD!
Thank you so much,
1LT *******, Arin

Operation Care Package,
I would like to Thank each and every one of you for what you are doing for our troops. I know it brings a smile to each and every service member your care packages reach. It brought one to mine, to know that complete strangers that have no idea what you are doing, but care enough to take the time out of their lives to bring a smile to a face they have never met, says a lot about what the organization is doing. Please pass on the word to Trisha that I hope her "old" suburban is doing better, and her mechanic didn't charge her an arm and a leg for the repairs given what the vehicle brings smiles 6k miles away.
There was a donation made by a Mr. and Mrs. Dale ***** (spelling?) from I believe what says Chrisman, IL, if they contact your organization again or have the contact info can you please thank Mr. Dale for me, he is a WWII veteran. Thank You
v/r
Peter
SGT U.S. ARMY
Kandahar, AFG

Ma'am,
On behalf of CH Nielson, the Soldiers of Task Force Mountain Warrior, and myself, Thank You for your continued support of Our Troops. We received your latest packages of personal hygiene products and snacks. It is truly a blessing when we receive a little piece of home from great folks like yourselves.
God Bless and keep you all in His favor.
V/R,
SSG Kevin

Good morning everyone with OCP,
I just wanted to say thanks for the box that you sent which I was able to receive prior to mail being cut off here in country for my birthday on the 27th of this month. We are in full transition now as a unit for changes at the helm here. Soldiers with 1st Infantry Division have already arrived and Soldiers from our unit have already started heading home. Not sure if I will be back in Germany by Father's day or not yet. Time will tell. My replacement hasn't arrived yet but I am expected in to be here by the weekend. I am still working at a fairly high OPTEMPO because of missions are still going on throughout the transition with the Afghan partners here. But I am ready to go home and see my wife and son (nine months next month). Look forward to seeing them both and being able to enjoy a weekend ... 3 hrs off on Sunday doesn't really cut it. Planning on a trip to Italy and Belgium for leave.
I have attached a group picture from work I am standing in the back. Also pictured are a couple UAVs that the Brigade used through the deployment; I called them the "Sound of Freedom" I could hear it coming from about 4 miles away or farther depending on the wind direction. But it is time for chow.
Take care and thanks again for all of the support that your provide to all of us overseas!
V/r
J

I just wanted to share a few photos of the proud men and women you have touched.
Thank you ALL for your heartfelt generosity!
Our Post Exchange is experiencing shortages in every area due to the continued conflict with Pakistan. The majority of our supplies flow through its borders. Your "Care Packages" are providing our troops with the essentials plus morale building supplies that make our days bearable.
Camp Eggers thanks you for remembering us.
You all have made friends forever.
V/r
LAR *******, Major, USAF

Im lcpl andrew ***** with 2/5 golf company, im part of the scout sniper platoon.
Your package full of goodies and socks just got here, and I want to thank you all for your gift. On that note, I just put on the pair of white socks that just came in the box, and they feel way better then the pair I had on for 3 days straight.
I'm sure me and the rest of the platoon will kill off all the candy and all the good stuff in the box before the end of the week. I'm happy to know there are people back in the US that care enough to send us these wonderful gifts.
Thank you very much.

Hi Debbie & Pat
Just want to send you both a little note to say thank you for the wonderful packages we received from you all. The soldiers went crazy as I walked into my office carrying 2 large packages announcing that I had goodies for them. It was like Christmas around here.
It meant a lot to the soldiers that folks like yourselves actually are thinking about us over here. Those packages sparked a huge increase in moral.
Please thank all of you staff for making these packages and signing your letter head with words of encouragement. That goes a long ways among all of the troops that OPERATION CARE PACKAGE supports. Once again thank you and I hope you continue to do what you do best.. and that's taking care of soldiers.
V/R
SGM Tim ******

I got a care package that was really great from operation care package & I just wanted to thank all of you for all the hard work that I know goes into each package.
This care package had a canister of sweet tea mix (WHICH I'M TRULY GRATEFUL FOR - it's my favorite), a monster can of Chili Hot Beans (which will come in extremely handy since we got so much chicken and rice on MEDEVAC shift that we are currently sick of it and the Chili Hot Beans is about to get consumed), and last BUT DEFINATELY NOT LEAST....the humbling socks in that care package that had the stickers on each pair with a note written from great individuals - even a WWII veteran and a Vietnam veteran. I wished I had all of their addresses so I could write to each of them :)
So to each of you wonderful people, my hat is off to you and it is I who salutes you for trying your very best to take care of us some 4,000 miles away from home on the other side of the world :)
Lisa C.

Debbie and Pat
Hi! Thank you for the wonderful box of snacks you sent to us. We did not hesitate in consuming them. It's always humbling and gratifying to receive gifts and snacks from people who give thought to the Soldiers serving abroad.
Thank you again for your generosity.
1LT ********

I wanted to send a thank you for the care package we received a few weeks ago, and truly, just for your thoughtfulness in reaching out to the service members around the world.
We know it's not an easy task to run such a program especially when donations and volunteers are the key ingredients. However, you seem dedicated to your calling and obviously you have a great team. With that combination, you can conquer any goal you set for yourselves.
Thank you again for the messages, the care package, and for your support.
May God bless you all.
With much appreciation,
Jim

Dear friends,
I am a 19 year old female soldier here in Afghanistan, almost at the end of my deployment. Throughout my 10 month stay here, I have received plenty of care packages, but the one I have received from this group on the 14th of April has really made me smile.
This is the first time that I have received letters where everyone has taken a part of the letter and left small notes for the soldier who would be receiving the package. The care-bear bag that was placed in the package is extremely cute and looks handmade, if that is the case, my thanks to whoever took the time to make such a wonderful thing. I also really appreciate all the snacks and care products that were put into the package, one of my Sergeants says thank you as well as I gave her some of the chocolate.
Thank you again and I am sure that I speak for every soldier who receives the packages you make when I say 'Thank you for your support and the love that you put into everything that you do for us.'
Very respectfully,
PFC *****, Miriya
303rd MIBN TF Longhorns

I just wanted to pass along my sincerest gratitude to you for taking the time to mail the many care packages we have received at the 3175th CM CO.
The Soldiers certainly enjoy all the items you have sent. It makes the job much easier when we have tremendous folks as yourselves taking the time to show you appreciate what we do.
While missing our families and friends is something that cannot be sent in a package, you have succeeded in bringing joy to all the Soldiers in the unit by sharing the letters and notes, thoughts and prayers, and giving us a piece of the home we miss.
1SG Buck *****

Ma'am/Sir,
I would like to extend a big thank you from the bottom of my heart for the packages you sent me filled with lots and lots of goodies. To know we still have support back home makes it so much easier to be here away from family and friends. By far my favorite item in my package from Ms. Olivia, from the girl scouts. Her picture is priceless please inform her that I have placed the picture she colored for me next to my bed.
Again thank you for all your support it really means a lot.
Richard C. M, SSgt, USAF

This care package was like a breath of fresh air from the United States. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the time you take out of your day to support us.
It feels good to know that we are not forgotten over here. Please tell Cayden that I love the Valentine's Day card.
v/r,
Thomas M

Hello,
All the way from the 375th Combat Support Sustainment Brigade in Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. We would like to thank ALL of you and the WHOLE Operation Care Package and let you guys know that we appreciate the support, the love, the prayers, motivation, encouragement, packages, and all that you do to support us who decide to spend 9 months to a year, sometimes longer, away from our family to come out and do what we do best. Most of our strength and courage comes from the motivation of you guys back at home.
God Bless you all for the loving and caring ways you all come together to help support others. For that, we too would like to say we love you, you are appreciated and continue showing your love and patriotism for our GREAT country. Please share this email with other Patriots and members of the Operation Care Package. May God bless you all greatly.
SUPPORT THE FIGHT!

Dear Operation Care Package,
We just recieved your care package & we are very grateful for your generous gifts. The snacks were great choices, they were gone in an hour!! We appreciate your time & consideration that the care package took. Thank-you again!!
Sincerely,
GM2 Rebecca

My name is Captain Tim ******,
I am an Engineer officer in the U.S. Army, and I want to thank you very much for the care packages and letters you sent which arrived here in Afghanistan just the other day. The troops over here greatly appreciate your generosity and support. It means a lot to know that people back home are thinking of us, especially people we do not even know. It truly lifts the spirits of all the Soldiers here.
Your care package was sent to my location. We're up in the mountains and share the base with a lot of Spanish military. My job is to work with the Afghan National Army here and help prepare them for taking ownership of all the buildings and facilities on their base camp. I have three people on my team and every day we go over to the Afghan base and advise and assist the Facility Engineers. We're helping teach them important trade skills like how to be an electrician, plumber, carpenter, mason, welder, generator technician, as well as management. These skills are necessary for them to be self-sufficient in the future when the Coalition Forces withdraw from Afghanistan and the Afghan Army is responsible for taking care of themselves.
Please let everyone at Operation Care Package know how great they are for their support. Thank you so much, and take care.

I would like to thank you for the box I received today!!! It is such a joy to get these boxes!!! Thank you everyone for your support!!!
Jason
190th

Debbie and the OCP Gang,
I would like to personally thank you for your generous donations. Your time and dedication has reminded us that what we do is not forgotten and that we are remembered so far away from home. The faces of my shipmate light up when mail arrives. Your support for what we do is appreciated.
If you ever make it out to San Diego when we get back, please contact me and I can arrange for a personal tour of our ship. If there is anything we can do for you as well, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate. Again thank you for your prayers and good wishes. We need them.
Sincerely,
Fire Controlman First Class,
Goeffrey

OCP Gang,
I just wanted to take the time to say thank you for the continued support. These care packages serve multiple purposes; besides giving us the necessities we need to continue to fight the global war on terror, it also serves as morale boosters for junior and senior servicemen and women. To know that we have the support from family members, friends and supporters such as yourself make it all worth it.
I personally appreciate what you do for us and for your country.
Semper Fidelis!
Captain ***
I attached a few pictures.

I just wanted to write and thank everyone for everything you do for us over here. I think the most important thing you provide us is the knowledge that we have such strong supporters who recognize all that we do over here. We can tell by the letters and the careful thought you put into the care packages we receive.
Thanks again from all the Marines and other service members serving overseas.
Semper Fi,
SSgt ********

I just want to say THANK You and ALL the volunteers for the care packages and the wonderful letters. This team here and I work on a Koreans base here in Afghanistan and they loved the goodies I passed down to them also.
I had a good tour, met a lot of new friends, and ate some different kind of Korean food, some good, some I don't even want to talk about. Again the packages are a God sent to us in the field - especially when we start missing family and friends, the packages sure make our day.
God Bless you and your team and anyone I missed that we all said thank you.
Sincerely Kreg USACE
Army Corps of Engineers.

Debbie,
You honestly keep getting more and more awesome.
The packages that you send keep getting better and better.
This package kicks ass.
Everything from the snack packs, to the football bowls was great.
The PATS Towel was funny.
The Fat Head football stickers were funny.
The best was the 'Shit Happens' flag.
This made the entire room laugh.
I am pretty sure this will be our motto until we finally leave Afghanistan in May.
Thanks for being so cool and thanks for supporting us while we are here.
Take care,
Derek

I would like to say thank you for the package that you sent me and my troops. We will enjoy everything that you all sent us.
I am originally from Rockford, Il. I am 39 yrs old and I am married and have 3 kids. I am planning on being back in the states in August, not for sure if I will make to Joliet then, but thank you for asking. I been in the military for 16yrs now and I am retiring in less than 4yrs. In my spare time when they are on I like watching the fighting ILLI, and I am a big Chicago BEARS and CUBS a fan.
JAMES
HURRICANES LEAD THE WAY!!!!!!!

Dear OCP Volunteers,
All I have to say is, Thank you.... You may already know this but a soldier getting any sort of package be from whomever, is one of the nicest things that we have to look forward to out here. I thank you for you kindness, generosity, and time that you all put into this. I do plan on writing the two third graders from Frankfort when time permits just so you know. :0) I really needed the socks because some of the nights here lately have been getting pretty cold, just like back in Illinois. I'm originally from Peotone, IL and when I saw that the Joilet OCP sent me a package I have to say I got excited because it was so close to home. Well, it's almost been a month and a half here so time is starting to go by a quick as it can. I can't wait for these next 8 months to finish up!
Once again Thank you, and God Bless.
Sincerely,
Greg USN

Afghanistan, first snow - 11/2011

Hello,
I received the package from you yesterday. It's really something for me. I don't have any families nor friends left behind in states. So nobody sends me anything. That is my first care package I recieved in my deployment. It's mean a lot for me. I really appreciate to you guys. I'm hoping a lot of letters also. I don't care what is in the package. Now I feel like I have a family back in the states. Thank you again.
Sincerely, Ko Ko

Hi,
My name is Robb. Thank you guys for the awesome gift boxes. Everything you sent made dozens of guys happy. We received them on xmas eve. It was a great surprise. Sorry it took so long to respond. We've been pretty busy lately. I wish I could've wrote you guys, but we have limited access to mail. I hope some email and photographs of the platoon you've made happy will suffice for now.
We are a group of 9 soldiers stationed in western Afghanistan. The fob is named shindand and is near the Iranian border. We live in tents, we eat in tents and we use porta-johns for our business. I imagine that you are aware of these things, because chances are you have family and friends that have been through this kinda stuff.
What you do for guys like us is rarely recognized, so I just want you to know that YOU GUYS ******* ROCK!. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Robb

I am Cpl ****, USMC. Today our platoon received Christmas stockings filled with goodies. I wanted to thank you personally for the things you sent. To take the time out of your lives to prepare a gift for a stranger is a very unselfish and commendable act. May God bless you for thinking of others during the holidays. My Marines and I appreciate you for it. Some of us(including myself) have children and spouses that we could not share the holidays with. My wife(Navy Dental Tech) at the moment is due on January 27 with our 2nd baby girl. It's rough without them but it's something we volunteer to do. So again, thank you for lifting our spirits with your thoughts and gifts. I wish you a happy New Year and may you spend it with those you love.
Semper Fidelis,
Cpl *****

Dear Operation Care Packages,
I wanted to personally thank you for the Christmas cards and care packages you sent to us. They have been distributed during our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day service. It warms our hearts to know that there are many others back home who care for and love our Soldiers as much as we do. There are now well over 900 Soldiers in the area that I cover and they have all benefited from your program.
CH Paul

Hi,
My name is David and I received a care package from your organization for Christmas. It was great. I put the decorations up, shared the goodies and saved the present until Christmas morning and opened it with my family on Skype as they were opening their presents. It was very appreciated.
I also read all the cards and letters and thank you letters. It makes me feel good because you are from Joliet. I lived there for 10 years from 1988-1998. My mother lives in Mokena, I went to Lincoln-Way high school, my kids went to grade school in Joliet. I left for a job in Sterling,Il and still miss every day my old neighbors, the food and the area.
Again, thanks for making my Christmas a little better.
Dave

I wanted to wish you a very Merry Christmas. I attached the pic my team took. I am the one wearing the green antlers. Things are going well over here. I will be going on leave soon for my eldest son, Brandon, Birthday. Thank you so much for all of the support you have provided to my team and I, through letters and care packages, I cannot thank you enough.
Justin

A big THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the contents of the care package I received today. Smiles were shared around my room as I distributed its contents among my brothers in arms. We are all pretty much safe over here.
I'm sure you all would be interested to know that we are in Kosovo of all places on a mission called 'k for 15' you can you tube some videos or search news and read up on whats going on over here if you are unfamiliar with the serbia/ kosovo entanglement. However the amenities we find back at base are hard to come by out on missions. Simple things like plumbing, toilets sinks and showers and hot meals are a nonentity for a couple weeks at a time. The snacks pack easily in a ruck and babywipes replace a shower of any fashion. Here at base we come back for a week to refit and shower, hit the gym, receive mail and packages, internet, and enjoy a hot meal.
Luckily, we will be at base for Christmas so we are all thankful for that.

I would like to thank you for sending the packages to the guys. Many said it was the only package they have gotten..so it really boosted their spirits. Again Thank You!!

Greetings!
The Soldiers in my company (about 130) just received their care packages and are ecstatic! Thanks so much for what you do for us! Have a great Christmas and New Years!
STEVEN D.******
1LT, TC

All, I wanted to thank you so much for all the care packages you sent. They arrived just in time for me to play "secret" Santa. The stockings and snowman soup were a very clever idea, and a big hit with everyone. Was nice to see a smile on everyone's face as I handed out items. You are a very considerate group of people who support us after so many years, which makes what we do have purpose. I'm sorry if I missed an email address off of the letters you sent. Had trouble reading a couple even with my bifocals on.
Right about now I think all of us could use one of your "little attitude adjustment" drinks as well.
Once again thank you so much! Hope all of you have a wonderful Holiday season.
MAJ *****

Good Morning,
My name is PFC Jason. I recieved a care package from your orginization 2 days ago. I was quite supprised to find all the wonderful goodies and cards. What i noticed was all the love that was put in the box. I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing what you do for us out here in the sand box. It means alot to us. For some of us that will be all we get for the holidays, it was more than i could ask for. I wish I had more time to write, but time is pressing at the moment. I would like if you could do me a favor and thank all the wonderful people that work with you and help put everything together. From one Hero to another, Thank you so very very much. Happy Holidays!!

All,
Good morning from Afghanistan! I just want to say thank you for all that you do. I received a care packagelast night which caught me by surprise. I wasn't expecting anything, and it always makes your day that much better when you receive mail. I wish I had the opportunity to personelly shake the hand of each and every one of you for taking the time out of your day and sending out "goodies" to complete strangers. God bless you all.

Dear OCP Volunteers,
Hello, my name is Sergeant C..... Im in the United States Army deployed in Afghanistan. im 23 years old and stationed in Alaska. In the Army im called a Flight Engineer on a CH-47 Helicopter. Fancy for me being the guy in the back of the helicopter that gets to fly around. (you might want to google Chinooks if your not familiar) First off, my disclaimer.. Im from Kentucky so my grammar sucks, and im going to start typing like it because i dont like being proper :). just being honest. Ok, so i wanted to thank each and every volunteer, i read your letters and cards and was very grateful of what you have all done. to the people at walgreens supporting us by buying a candy bar for a soldier, to make sure he's still fat overseas! joking. to the kids in highschool taking their time out of your busy early lives to support us. Its because of people like you, like everyone in your group/organization that gives us the willingness to do our jobs. the sacrifices i make in my life to be here, is all worth it when i think about people like you. I see your from the Chicago area if im correct? if so its sad its a little far away from home because i would like to come and visit places that support us to give thanks in a more proper way. But thank you very much for all the efforts you do. Your sacrifices help each and every one of us and gives us good motivation. Merry Christmas to all of you, i hope you have a good one.
One of your Soldiers - Corbin