Dear Editor:
Today, as you gather with family, and loved ones, please take time to remember our Military men and women – both past and present, as well as the families with empty chairs at their Thanksgiving tables. We owe our entire “way of life” to those who have fought for the cause of freedom throughout the history of this great country! I’m not sure who said this – but it is one of my favorite quotes. “A Veteran is someone who, at one point, wrote a blank check made payable to the United States of America for an amount of ‘up to and including their life.’ THAT is honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it. The true soldier fights - not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” May we never forget…..and ALWAYS be thankful for their sacrifices!
The Great Bend Military Moms are planning the next shipment of care packages for soldiers. If you know of someone who is currently serving in the Iraq or Afghanistan areas, please get their military address to me as soon as possible. We will add them to the list and send them boxes loaded with snacks, candy, drink mixes, beef jerky, nuts, books, CDs, DVDs, games, toys, batteries, personal care items along with lots of love and support from back home. We don’t care where they’re from – they all deserve to know they are loved and appreciated for the sacrifices they make while serving in the fight for freedom. Our mission is not only to send them some great stuff, but also to put a smile on their faces and remind them that we care.
We also send many extra boxes to chaplains of units, so they can distribute the care packages to those soldiers who don’t receive any mail. It is heartbreaking to learn about these men and women, so we do our best to send enough to be shared and enjoyed with them as well.
To all of you that have contributed over the last 9 years, THANK YOU so much!  None of this could take place without the wonderful support this community has given the project! I had to give up writing thank you notes a long time ago, but please know that the names of all contributors are added to the long list attached to a letter of appreciation included with each box. Financial donations have come from individuals, families, memorials, schools, clubs, scouts, service organizations, and some stores and businesses. Every dollar donated is used for purchasing the contents and for shipping charges.
So please check with your friends and relatives and get those military addresses to me. They will be kept confidential. For more information, to send an address, or to make a donation, please contact me at the following phone number and address.
Until they are all home...
Leslie (Halbower) Barrett
620-792-2838
Great Bend, Ks. 67530
American Legion Gift Fund/Great Bend Military Moms
P.O. Box 432
Great Bend, Ks. 67530