Posted on 05/29/2004 8:26:42 PM PDT by markv840
Operation Gratitude (SM) is an organization that is dedicated to sending care packages to the troops deployed in Iraq (and other parts of the world). Recently they have undertaken the enormous task of shipping 10,000 (!!) packages containing things such as: lotion, CDs, DVDs, candy, snacks, t-shirts, and letters from people who just want to say thank you; packages are sent through USPS, and the shipping cost per package runs at $15 - $30 (this time its more than ten thousand packages, you do the math). On this Memorial Day weekend, hundreds of volunteers have started the overwhelming task of assembling the boxes, preparing the packages, filling customs forms, and many other tasks that make this operation possible. Operation Gratitude is the brainchild of Carolyn Blasheck, as Im told, she started this incredible project from her own house, and now, since it has become such a huge effort, the contents of the packages are now sent to the National Guard armory in Van Nuys, California, where they are stored until its time to assemble and ship the packages. You can visit operation gratitudes website: www.opgratitude.com.
PS- Point to the picture for a Commentary.
That is Carolyn Blashek(center), Mr.Diamond on the left(whose rank I don't know, unfortunately), and an "unknown" on the right.
Guess who?
Actually, the "unknown" in the picture above is Tony Cárdenas, DEMOCRAT, councilmember for the 6th District; but frankly, since this has gotten such a good local news coverage, I would consider questioninig his motives; of course, it is possible that he does, in fact care about this project; then again, who am I to judge?
Thank you for posting this. We were not aware of this wonderful agency but thanks to you, we were able to make a donation. We now have it book marked and will recommend to family and friends. Thanks again.
I'm in Camarillo and will be there around noon time. I came on line to look for the address. We have some things to donate. By the way, the Reagan Library is accepting donations to send to Walter Reed, and you get free admission thru July 4th.
You're welcome; and thank you for donating, I believe this operation is a one of the greatest ways in which we can say "thank you" to our brave military men and women. It is essential that they [the troops] know that we stand together to support them here in the home front. Aside from money, supplies, or time donated, a great way to contribute is to send letters to the soldiers, since a letter is put in every packet (I think letters are an important part of the contents of these packages).
Question: how are these CD's being distributed to the soldiers? It would be great projects like these could work in conjunction with other charities such as Operation Gratitude. If projects like these work together and organize, tenths of thousands of soldiers could be reached, and even more Americans would be able to show their support :o)
Bump this baby to the top!!
You can view a small sample on our main page: VetsCoR. Click on the graphic for more info.
God bless all of these wonderful Americans!
Cardenas' arranged for Pizza for everyone on Sunday. As for motives besides the right thing to do he's running for mayor of Los Angeles. He wants Hahn's job and has a good shot at getting it. The people who were there for the 3 days vote in a higher percentage than others in the city.
$$$$ sent!!!
Great Job! You guys are great!
Thank you, that's great!
And thank you all for your support
BTW, I'm an ex-airdale from the Gator Navy. USS New Orleans (LPH-11)
Thank you for your donation. It's nice to know that your $$$ are turned into real usable gifts that are greatly appreciated.
Did you get my Freepmail concerning Carolyn Blashek?
Oh yes, Thank you; I just got to my mail a few minutes ago, and I will e-mail her as soon as I finnish typing this :o)
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