America Supports You: Groups Learn Troops’ Wish List

America Supports You ^ | Julia W. Burgess

[SandRat]

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2007 – Representatives from 23 America Supports You home-front groups received a timely military update today when they had the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with a Marine commander in Iraq.

From Iraq, Marine Col. Richard Simcock, commanding officer of Regimental Combat Team 6, talks to troop-support organization representatives during a conference call Nov. 29, 2007. After a brief update on the conditions his troops face, he told the groups what those troops most appreciate receiving when they get care packages. Defense Department photo  
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Col. Richard Simcock, commander of Regimental Combat Team 6 in Iraq, offered insightful answers regarding what would be most appreciated by military men and women serving in his area.

Simcock said beef jerky, socks, and hygiene supplies are always appreciated. More unique gifts for the holiday season would be exciting to receive, but stockings stuffed with everyday essentials are always welcome.

School supplies for Iraqi children, which can serve to initiate communication, were highlighted as both much-needed and hard-to-get items.

Finally, sporting equipment like soccer balls are a favorite of the servicemembers. Simcock said military members and Iraqi citizens challenge each other to soccer games, strengthening the positive relationships they are building.

A 24-year Marine veteran, Simcock also expressed gratitude for the more than 4,000 letters servicemembers in his command had received. The support of individuals through letters and messages provides daily inspiration to the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines serving overseas, he said.

Links to over 300 groups that provide care packages, letters, and other support for our military and their families are available on the America Supports You Web site, www.americasupportsyou.com. America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.

(Jennifer DuBois contributed to this report.)

Related Sites:
America Supports You

[SandRat]

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[psjones]

My nephew is in Anbar province, he’s been asking for dvds. Says it’s gotten cold.

[SandRat]

Send him a good pair of black GOR-Tex gloves from a Camping Store like Cabella’s or such.

[psjones]

Ok thanks, I had read about a type of glove to send, they are supposed to be sort of self heating? There’s a camping store in my area, will check them out this weekend.

[SandRat]

Also, send him a 3-FER. That’s Boy Scout Popcorn in a Decorative Tin. We call them 3-FERs because Troops, like Scouts, are always hungry so there’s munchies inside, the Tin is a decorative reminder of Home to have in their HOOCH, and when the popcorn is all gone they have a tight sealing container to put their treasures in and keep the dust/dirt out.

[psjones]

Thanks for the tip. I’ve been sending him stuff I pick up at Sam’s for him to share with his buddies, will have to look out for the popcorn tin.