Posted on 07/04/2008 10:56:40 AM PDT by BenLurkin
While many people in the Antelope Valley will spend the Fourth of July celebrating their independence with barbecues, beer, music and cheer, some members of the Blue Star Mothers will think of their sons and daughters still fighting for freedom overseas. Blue Star Mothers of America Inc. is a nonprofit organization with chapters throughout the nation comprising women whose children are serving or have served in the military. Members offer each other emotional support and support the troops by sending cards, letters and care packages filled with snack foods, toiletries and sometimes items such as paperback books or a deck of cards.
About 25 women from the Antelope Valley Chapter met Monday night. To their surprise, a visitor stopped by: Army Capt. Kevin Williams, whose mother, Gloria Williams, is a member.
"I've been receiving boxes from a group called Blue Star Moms," said Kevin Williams, 27, an artillery officer with the Army's 2nd Striker Cavalry Regiment.
"Initially I got four boxes at one time," he told the group. "I said, 'Who are these people? Obviously, they know me.' I've been meaning to write.
"I just got in town two days ago from Iraq. I wanted to come and thank you guys in person for what you're doing for us. It really helps, probably more than you know. It helps to get something personal," said Williams, whose beaming mother sat nearby.
He'll be home for 18 days before shipping back to Iraq for approximately four more months.
His mother said she will treasure each moment of his 2½-week stay, including today.
"We're spending the holiday with extended family members and friends," Gloria Williams said. "We've been invited to several family gatherings. Some people haven't seen him since he graduated from West Point."
(Excerpt) Read more at avpress.com ...
God Bless Blue Star Mothers and their sons and daughters who defend our freedoms! My thoughts and prayers are with them every day. We support our troops and their families.
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