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Support the Troops Day 2009

"The amount of love and gratitude that pours into each hand packed box is palpable. And it is appreciated."

"When we think of the war effort we conjure up images that we identify with emotionally. Some of us envision America flexing her muscle in a military display of power and might that only a fool would challenge (or even question). Some of us envision the less publicized humanitarian efforts of a calmer, gentler America reaching out to the people to build trust and empowerment. And we hope that amongst the stress and fatigue of the environment that there is some time for light heartedness and humor. But nonetheless, on both sides of the ocean, couple’s hearts are broken and mother’s arms ache to hold their babies tight again – no matter how big and hairy they get. Because of people like you coming together all over America, the images of wartime are not always sad and bleak. They are downright cheerful and proud. The amount of love and gratitude that pours into each hand packed box is palpable. And it is appreciated.

This is my son Staff Sergeant David Duitsman. He is currently serving his second deployment in Iraq, this time in a very remote section of Iraq near the Iran border - that’s about all the information I am privy to. Terry & Veronica collected hundreds in cash donations as well as pounds of fudge, snacks, toiletries, games, magazines, beverages and holiday decorations.

On behalf of David and the other soldiers serving with him, thank you for your kind generosity and effort to make the time these fellas spend so far away from home a little more comfortable. This is not about me or my son; he is just one soldier of many. It is about a sense of pride and community and doing the right thing. It is about supporting of our fellow man and love of country. It is America at its finest.

Thank you for allowing me a selfish moment to share some of my pictures with you."

God Bless you all,
Leanne Wagner Abel