Growing up in Minnesota, I was somewhat immune to military life. I didn't really see anyone in the military or understand that way of life. Going to college in San Diego quickly changed that. Military personnel are everywhere in San Diego. You can't walk through the San Diego airport without seeing men and women in uniform. Seeing those people in uniform always made me smile. I was grateful at what they had chosen to do with their life allowing me to live mine. I met many people of the military while I lived in San Diego and again when I moved to Washington, D.C. I was completely fascinated by military life - it was so different from my own.
I have always wondered how they do it. How they can leave their family for months at a time and put their own life in danger. I have always wanted to help them, especially the younger ones. After looking into a various list of organizations that help out the military and their families, I found an organization called Soldier's Angels. As a member, I commit to sending a letter to a soldier who is deployed every week for one year. I also commit to sending a care package once a month during that year. I thought it sounded pretty fun. I enjoy writing letters (I guess I am old fashioned, but who doesn't enjoy getting mail) and love going shopping for someone else picking out fun things like snacks and toiletries.
So I joined yesterday and sent my first welcome email to Michael Easton, stationed somewhere in Afghanistan. I know nothing about him, other than he is in the Army and is living abroad serving his country. I hope to learn more about him over the next year and somehow make living abroad a little easier for him. It doesn't take much, just a pen, some paper, and letting him know that someone over here is thinking about everyone over there, wishing for their safe return.
M
Soldier's Angels
www.soldiersangels.org
Hi Mags! It's me, your Aunt Barbie. :) Your mom sent an email, leading me here. I'm so proud of you. What a neat thing for you to do, committing to write to a soldier for a year. I know you'll enjoy that.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I end up with tons of cards because of my hobby. I send many of the to Operation Write Home. It's another organization to help those in the military. I don't know if I ever told you that, but they send handmade cards to soldiers overseas, so that they have a card to send to their wives, children, parents, etc. for birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions. There aren't too many stores in Iraq or Afghanistan where they sell American greeting cards.
Anyway, I just wanted to say hello. You should add the link on your sidebar where people can choose to follow your blog. I will for sure!
Sending hugs! Love you!
Barbie :)