| ** From The Front 2008 ** |
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Message received April 11, 2008
AFGHANISTAN (Forward Surgical Team)
All nine boxes arrived yesterday. That they all came at the same time
is a wonder since the mail is just so weird lately. I think that
sometimes mail sits somewhere for extended periods of time, and I
suspect that it is XXXX since we often hear about huge amounts of
mail coming our way (the FOB). For a while the mail was flown in then
over the winter the mail was contracted out to some local who hired
the Afghanis to convoy it here. The trucks, called jingle trucks
because they decorate them with bells and chains and material and
they jingle, were ambushed a couple of times and now we are back to
flights, but if the weather is bad or the cloud cover is bad, it is a
no go and we wait.
…Mail is coming like Christmas around here and your boxes of goodies
are always welcomed with lots of enthusiasm. Somebody is opening the
boxes and several are looking over the opener's shoulder. It is funny
to watch and reminds me of little kids at a birthday party. The
clinic keeps us busy and the casualty load is beginning.
We hung up the Freedom Quilt outside of the OR area so that all of us
can look at it. It does make me feel good to see the support from
home. I am not hearing or reading as much about people not supporting
the war as before the politicians started fighting...
Hope the weather is settling down for you all. We had a couple of
days of 95s and then the rain (yes, rain) moved in and it has
drizzled for a couple of days. It is about 75 right now and very
pleasant. I wish I could bottle it up and save it for later.
Thanks again for the great boxes. Tell everyone how much we
appreciate what you all do for us.
Hug your families and keep them safe for us.
XXXX
Message received April 9, 2008
IRAQ
Just got another box full of bread mix and spreads that you had sent
the chaplain. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! :-) Nothing like the
smell of fresh bread to get everyone out of the woodwork. The various
types of bread were great as well.
I actually have 6 people just in my ER from Hawaii, so your Hawaiian
bread mix was a big hit. What a great package.
Thanks for everything.
MAJ XXXXX
Message dated April 1, 2008
IRAQ
...About a month and a half ago we carried the casket of a man that
couldn't be identified...They couldn't tell what skin color he was,
what branch of service he was in, what unit he was from or when he
had died. So we carried him from Baghdad to Kuwait International and
another plane took him from Kuwait International to Dover Air Force
Base for a DNA test. This is all we knew, and just like Paul Harvey,
here is the rest of the story.
On April 9th, 2004 20-year old Private Matt Maupin was captured in an
ambush. A week later an Arab television network aired a tape of him
surrounded by a lot of men holding automatic rifles. That June
another video aired showing an Army man being executed. The video was
blurry and they couldn't make out who it was. It could have been him
but no one will ever know for sure.
For 4 years now he has been missing in action. In Baghdad there was a
table set and reserved for him like with other POW/MIA...We carried
the now Sergeant Keith (Matt) Maupin home.
...The unidentified man we carried that day was Matt Maupin. My crew
and I had a very small part in everything to do with Matt, but it's
nice to know we helped get him home. And now you know the rest of the
story. The end.
Also today just happends to be the anniversary that Jessica Lynch was
captured. FYI
XXXX
Message received April 4, 2008
IRAQ
Got the boxes today and the phone cards are safe. We will use these
card for Soldiers (Wounded Warriors) going to Germany and on their
way home. These will be a great help for them.
Debra (Head Nurse, ER) asked me about the Bread Mix and I told her we
got them and a lot of them. Due to the Catholic Mass tomorrow, we
have decided not to open the boxes today but I can't wait to bake
some bread for the staff, so I got into the bread mix box and baked
some today and oh.. the smell of fresh baked bread... it causes
people to keep coming back to our office asking when the bread is
ready?
Please allow us to say you always made our day here in Iraq. Last few
days were so tense for us not only due to patient flow here, but also
the staff were so busy. I know you're watching the news.
Thanks for your prayers and non stop support.
Blessings,
XXXX
Message received March 31, 2008
QATAR
...I can't possibly be grateful enough, thank you so much, this is a first for me
to ask for help and get a reply - Thank God for the internet and "American
Heroes" such as yourselves…Organizations and Americans like yourselves
give us hope! It gives us strength in our times of need, it very well may save
the life of a soldier that is re-energized by the inspiration
you give us with your support.
God Bless You, God Bless America, and may God Bless our young Men and
Women deployed around the world.
CSM XXXX
Message received March 31, 2008
IRAQ
Oh wow!!! I am so excited! This is really awesome. Thank you so much
for everything that you and all of the volunteers are doing! It means
so much. The soldiers are so excited to see what we got. We happen to
not have a 7-ton truck...but we have an FLA. haha...hopefully that
will work. You are awesome.
I can not say enough to say how wonderful y'all are. It is great. I
have been telling everyone...and they can't believe how wonderful
people are being. I just don’t know what else to say. Seriously!!!! Is
there anything that WE can do for all of YOU that support us?
I am going to try and start taking pictures of the soldiers receiving
stuff...it is just so hard sometimes when we have so much stuff going
on...but I promise I will do my best! I DO have a company photo!!
Would you like that? It has everyone in there!!! Our company is
small...but we support over 30,000 soldiers. SO, be reassured that
everything you send is NOT being used by just my company...I have
been sending boxes to a LOT of the soldiers in the outer FOBs and
JSS's. They appreciate it all too! I have to go for now...but let me
know what we can do for you!! Thank you again...so much!
V/R,
SGT XXXX
XXXX BCT Mental Health NCOIC
Message received March 27, 2008
Landstuhl Regional Medical Center-Germany
I was medevac’d last week from Iraq to Landstuhl, Germany. I spent
Easter in a hospital. I didn't have anything with me upon arrival. I
received one of your care packages that had some personal hygiene items
as well as comforting items. I also read some of the cards while I was
in my hospital bed. It is comforting to know that there are still
caring members of society back home supporting us. I want to take this
opportunity to thank your organization for all you do.
Message received March 23, 2008
IRAQ
DEAR LORI PATE AND THE MEMBERS OF OPERATION QUIET COMFORT:
Words could not express how happy I was to receive the gifts for our
Soldiers. I can hardly believe to see 8 boxes of care packages that
you sent to us. I would like to cordially thank every member of your
sublime Organization. Those goodies you donated to us could really
make a difference in the lives of so many Soldiers. There's no doubt
that our tasks and sacrifices are perfectly matched by your show of
concern and support to us. We truly felt being loved by you and felt
that we've never been forgotten.
With God's grace, and with the continuing support of wonderful people
like YOU, we'll be able to carry lightly the hardships and
difficulties we encounter in our missions thinking that there are
loving people to care for us; we'll always be motivated in every way
and we'll be able to carry out the banner of love and peace to the
Iraqi people.
May God greatly reward you for your thoughtfulness and love! Rest
assured; that I will always continue to remember you all in my daily
prayers and, as a priest, to offer my daily Masses.
HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE!!!
With love and prayers,
CH (CPT) XXXX
Message received March 23, 2008
IRAQ
Greetings from Iraq,
Lori- I have received the two boxes that you all sent me and they were
quite a hit! You should have seen all the new friends I made when I
opened those two boxes LOL. I shared almost everything my fellow
Soldiers. I kept the kool-aid packets for myself, I love that stuff.
You included some great snacks that are not available here; cheese dip,
tuna fish, and the healthy snacks.
Thank you very much for brightening up our day here in XXXX.
Sincerely,
SFC XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ (Combat Outpost)
Thanks for checking on us. We are doing good, we are waiting on the
word whether we are moving locations or not. But other than that
business is as usual.
We treat all patients and all types. Just yesterday we had a small
mass casualty. We had five seriously injured locals and we are only
set up for two treatment beds, so we had to quickly react and call
for any help for the other guys.
...We cut a lot of clothes and it is nice to be able to cover all our
casualties and send them away, if they don't get sent up to the
hospital, with some pants or shorts on. People tend not to like to
be naked in public. But other than that we’re good, time is passing and
hopefully soon, we'll be back home soon, sending donations to our
fellow soldiers back here. Thanks again for all you support and help.
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
This week and last week were busy time for us here at the hospital
and in fact this time I will ask for more stuff from you. After the
last e-mail I sent you about handing 5 go bags out, the week after
that I handed 7 and then two more the following week. I'm low on my
supplies of go bags.
The bread maker is doing a great job of ministry here. The smell of
the fresh bread is killing the staff in our wards that they will come
lining up in my office. I bake twice a day. When I come to work at 6
am that's always one of the things that I do then one more around 10
am for those who will not have time for lunch...
Thanks and may God continue to bless you all!
CH XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Always so good to hear from you! You are so sweet to ask, and yes,
we are doing fine. The weather is warming up more rapidly than we
counted on (in other words, it's getting HOT), and spirits are on the
uphill swing - all good things.
Because we have been blessed with a lower census of late, we are
pretty good on most things you mentioned on the list. However, there
are always a few things we run low on and they are:
flip-flops (you knew this would be on the list!)
underwear - male & female
coffee and <condiments>(are ALWAYS in need)
and of course, bread mixes (never enough of that!).
We are sad, as one of the bread machines that I had given to one of
the areas in the hosp. has mysteriously disappeared, and folks are
all up in arms about it. We still have one more that we keep pretty
busy, but I sure hope the other one surfaces soon, as you have really
started a good thing with that bread. YUM!!!
Thank you so much for all you do for us. You are appreciated more
than you can ever know. I hope to hear back from you real soon, and
I wish all of you and yours a wonderful Easter celebration!
Much love - your friend, XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Once again you have all come thru for us in a great way. Yes we
can use the water balloon launchers and frisbees and footballs and
anything that will make our days here shorter. I am trying to build
a sports box for my Company as we are limited on sporting supplies
here. I appreciate everything that you all always do for us, and we
put everything you give us to good use.
Thank you for all you do for us and for your continued support.
Thank you for your kindness. Have a great day. The cd with all of
your supporters and the music was excellent. I shared it with my
Company so they can see where all the support comes from. Have a
great one.
In your service,
1SG XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
The internet has been off and on for weeks and I never know if what I
am sending goes out. Earlier in the deployment I know I was sending
emails out and they just were not being delivered. I've often
wondered how much is floating out there in internet purgatory.
We have been busy with lots of patients in the clinic, operating 4
days a week and our casualties have started to increase. The clinic
will definitely have to slow when the op-tempo goes back up as I know
it will very soon.
…I will write more soon. I don't know if you got my thanks for the
great CD you all sent. If that doesn't make people proud of what they
are doing (I am talking about you all), nothing will. And the people
you sent it to as thanks should be motivated to keep giving!
XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Things here are ok. The past couple of weeks have been crazy. The
patient load here has almost doubled. Right now we are pretty much set
with everything. The only thing I can think of that we could use is
flip flops. We go through those pretty fast. If you could send some
that would be great! Thank you so much for everything you’re doing!! We
all appreciate it!
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Good day! My name is XXXX. I am one of the many soldiers currently
deployed in Iraq. I work at one of the hospitals in XXXX as a Radiology
Technician. As I go through the hospital making my morning round of x-
rays, I actually realized that many of the beds in our hospital do not
have pillows. Many patients have make-shift pillows of rolled up sheets
to support their heads.
...I am writing to ask if you would be able to donate any hospital
pillows and/or pillow cases for the soldiers and other patients we
receive here. We are an XXXX-bed hospital, with a XXXX-bed Return-to-
Duty housing for the soldiers not assigned to the hospital who are
transitioning from inpatient to outpatient to return to work.
Your support from the home front is greatly appreciated!
Message received March 20, 2008
IRAQ
Things are moving along, I think the sand storms are slowing down and
people are coming back outside. The temperature seems to be heating
up in the 90s. We just received a huge supply of clothes, underwear,
shirts, and shorts. I know the bread mixes are still the biggest
hit, I just made a loaf of "cinnamon bread today". Excellent, keep
em coming, we are definitely cooking up a storm.
Gratitude Quilts might come in handy with some of the staff for the
hard work and cool nights. I know the command loves their coffee and
healthy snacks. I think they live off the coffee and bread some days.
We were out at the site yesterday giving toys to the kids and working
with one of the clinics handing out toys. Seems so funny to see kids
playing at a park. You just don't see kids over here having fun.
The only ones we see are the ones shot up or caught up playing with
an IED (bomb). Not a pretty sight, but to see them running and
playing makes everyone think of going home.
We have not set the track up yet, however we are planning a race, and
handing out the cars. Time will tell how this goes. Everyone is
getting ready for Easter with an Egg hunt. I told them they had
better hide the eggs early before the sun comes out and makes hot
chocolate. All is good.
Good to hear from you, I hope all is well. I see alot of Tornados
and floods striking through the US along with high gas prices. I
wish I could send some gas back home: 18 cents a gallon over here.
Thank You for everything you do. God Bless..
"Letters are Smiles Across the Miles"
XXXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster TF XXXX
Message received March 20, 2008
IRAQ
I just wanted to send you a note of thanks for the wonderful bread
maker. I am the head nurse of the EMT and when we make the bread, the
whole section smells great. Everyone comes down wondering who's making
what. :) It may seem simple, but the true smell of bread baking (even
in a machine) makes you think of home. Nothing tastes better than
fresh bread, still warm. The machine is one of those things you don't
think of asking for, but when you get it, you are very grateful. The
mixes were great as well. I believe we have used 1-2 almost everyday
since getting the machine.
Thanks again for your thoughtfulness. What a great gift!!
MAJ XXXX
HN EMT
Message received March 19, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you and the other members of Operation: Quiet Comfort. Those
little pillows you sent come in very handy. We never know our schedule
or where we will be when we have the chance to grab a nap or get a full
night’s sleep, so having a pillow with us is no easy feat. Now we have a
way to do that. Your support is very much appreciated. Your prayers are
also crucial to us to provide the safety and security to lay down our
heads and sleep.
God bless,
XXXX
Chaplain
XX Marines
Message received March 13, 2008
IRAQ
We got the bread makers and just a few minutes ago I had a slice of freshly
baked bread from our ER where I installed the bread maker yesterday. It was
great. Even the evening shift told me last night that they are baking some
bread and it's AWESOME! Our ER is on the ground floor and I will bake from
the other bread maker here in my office at the second floor. Thank you so
much.
I also handed 5 GO Bags to our wounded warriors last night and they really
appreciate it. Sad to say that yes, five of our own were air evacuated last night
for Germany then to either Walter Reed or Brooks in San Antonio. They are
the latest of our wounded warriors.
I appreciate your support to us and the Soldiers know that you are all there for
us and will always pray for the troops.
Blessings,
Chaplain XXXX
Letter received March 12, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you very much for your recent package. I'm a doctor in the support
squadron of the XXX. I work in an aid station that does not have inpatients, but
we see plenty of soldiers every day from sprained ankles, to colds, stitches,
skin infections, and broken hearts. We have a lot of hard working medics who
work there every day, in addition to going out on convoys and responding to
emergencies.
Your gift of delicious coffee, nuts, granola bars and other snacks are greatly
appreciated by all of us. Often people don't have time to go all the way down
to the chow hall so having nutritious snacks like you sent goes a long way in
helping people get the job done.
It's also very nice to know we're remembered. This has been a long war, and
the continued energy and support of folks like you back home really does keep
us going. It also reminds us why we're proud to represent our wonderful USA!
Many thanks,
XXXX
Message received March 7, 2008
IRAQ
Dear Generous People:
Greetings of peace and joy in the Lord!
I am Chaplain (CPT) XXXX of the XXXX CSSB Battalion. I have XXXX Soldiers
under my care and ministry. We've been deployed in Iraq for 15 months tour.
I am asking your support, please, include our Troops as one of your recipients
of Care Packages.
Our Soldiers would truly appreciate and feel loved that people out there are
showing their support to the deployed Soldiers. As a Chaplain, I have some
Soldiers who encountered some family problems, which they needed to call
back home. I could have been pretty <helpful> if I had some Phone Cards
available that I could offer to them for emergency only. I am wondering if your
generous Organization could help with Phone Cards. Thank you so much for
your undying support to us. God bless your heart...
God's peace,
CH (CPT) XXXX
NOTE: Thanks to the **generous hearts** of OQC supporters, we are able to step up
immediately to assist this Chaplain and the Soldiers entrusted to his ministry.
Letter received March 6, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Dear Lori and Operation: Quiet Comfort,
We wish to thank you for your generosity. All gifts and contributions have
been put to very good use here in Afghanistan. The Battalion Aid Station here
in FOB XXXX has received many useful items that have been distributed
throughout the province to Soldiers whom welcome them with great gratitude.
Thanks to you and the other great Americans who support our efforts in the
"War on Terrorism" we are able to continue on a path of progress while
smiling and with our heads held high. Once again on behalf of our grateful
Soldiers here in Afghanistan - thank you.
Sincerely,
The 2 Fury Aid Station
82nd Airborne
March 5, 2008
IRAQ
<Huge Smile!> We shipped several hundred Pinewood Derby Car kits and all kinds of
hobby supplies over in our Holiday Shipment last fall. Well, this Combat Support
Hospital is ready to race and we just shipped them a track that will allow 4 cars to race
side by side! Here is the Chief Wardmaster's response to word that the track was on the
way...Soldiers need something to take their minds off of war. HOOAH!
All right, I have a bunch of woodworkers here who are very anxious to
start building the kits. I am planning a big race. We will definitely be taking
pictures for you. I can't wait to see what everyone is going to say about the kit.
I will have to wait to surprise them. I use to race derby cars every year with
my son inScouts. This should be quite a tournament. I look forward to this,
and "Thank you very much for all your Support".
...The temperature is starting to heat up. Reached the 70s here lately with very
strong winds. Sand storms are very bad lately with the high winds coming in
around the afternoon. Hard to explain, except it seems to make the day look
night. Very mysterious looking, like the movies. I would send pictures, but they
really do not explain what it seems like.
XXXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster
Letter received February 19, 2008
From a GO Bag Recipient
Thanks for your support! It's not us willing to die for this country that makes a
soldier brave. It's people like you and our families that give us courage and
humility! And it's our children and the generations to come that makes it all
worth fighting for. So I thank you once again for your support and helping us
find our strength and courage.
Sincerely,
XXXX
Message received February 19, 2008
IRAQ
I didn't realize so much time had passed since I last wrote you until now - wow!
Time is just flying by... YIPPEE!! Ahem - um... sorry that it has been so long
since you last heard from me - I hope you are well and that all of you had a
wonderful Valentine's Day from all the people in your lives who love you
(count me among them).
I wanted to let you know that I have received this week the following: flip-flops,
sweat sets, and bread mixes with the accompanying jams and jellies. And may
I just politely and sweetly say...OH MY GOSH!!! ARE YOU GUYS INCREDIBLE
OR WHAT??!!!! Thank you so much for your timely gifts! By the way - I have
already passed some of the bread mixes on to the others who own the bread
machines, and many, many service members are singing your praises!!! You
are wonderful and incredible and a blessing to be sure.
Oh, I have to tell you a little story about the shoes you sent last month. A few
days ago, we had an Iraqi national patient that had been treated by us for
some time, and was being sent home and would be continuing treatment at a
local facility where he lived. However, the journey was going to be by convoy
and many hours away. Since he had been in the hospital for many days, he
had been wearing the regular scrubs (like everyone else) and flip-flops (like
everyone else), but had no clothes to go home with. However, I was able to
give him a set of sweats that fit him perfectly, and a pair of shoes before he
left. And I have to tell you - you would have thought he was a kid on Christmas
morning. He kept asking if these were his to keep? We kept assuring him that
they were. He got all misty and thanked us over and over again. Hearts and
minds, my dear - it's the hearts and minds that is winning this war. And it is
made possible by you and all those that assist you in this worthy cause. Thank
you for all you do - now I am misty (again)!
Please take care, and I hope the winter weather is not too bad where you are.
The weather is just starting to turn nice again now, but today we have a wind
storm on our hands, which translates into a dust-storm also. Please, know you
guys are always in my prayers and that I hope to hear from you again real
soon.
Your friend - XXXX
Letter received February 16, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
"Strength and Honor"
Legion Company, XXXXX (Airborne) recognizes Operation Quiet Comfort
for your tireless dedication to supporting our company and our
mission in Afghanistan. It is a true testament to your character as
Americans. Thank you for your continued support of our efforts!
XXXXX
1SG, US Army
First Sergeant
XXXXX
Captain, Infantry
Commanding
XXXXX
1st Lieutenant, Infantry
Executive Officer
Card received February 13, 2008
Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Dear Quiet Comfort,
I would like to thank you for your blanket that I received during my time of
recovery while I was away from my family. The blanket allowed me to feel
close to family without actually being in the United States. Your volunteer
service to Soldiers, Marines and Airmen are greatly appreciated. We thank
you very much. God bless you.
Love,
SFC XXXXX
Letter received February 13, 2008
IRAQ
The Marines, Sailors and Soldiers of XXXXX would like to thank you for
everything you have done for us. Always know that your support means much
more than words can say, especially since we were away from our loved ones
this holiday season. You should be proud of your contributions and efforts to
support America's Global War on Terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freedom
06-08.2
XXXXX
Message received February 11, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you again for your continued support and generosity to my soldiers. It
is so good receiving boxes from you, and word spreads like wildfire when we
get them because the soldiers know there is always something good in them.
Please thank everyone who has a part in this, and tell them thank you a
thousand times over. Have a great day, and again thank you for your
continued love and support.
In your service,
XXXXX
P.S. Thanks for the music. It makes my day.
Message received February 2, 2008
IRAQ
Your support is very much appreciated...The gifts that you sent us are very
helpful to our wounded warriors. I just released four quilts yesterday for WW
ready to be taken to Germany.
<Black> back packs are needed too. We can use them for the Soldiers'
personal items. When they get here, they will be stripped of
everything. We have ample supply of toiletries but the <sweat sets> are
needed.
Thanks and may God bless you always.
XXXXXX
Message received January 29, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
...My guys will be so excited, especially the first time it starts spewing forth that
wonderful smell of baking bread. That will be a real treasure to have.
I will certainly pass on your address to our replacements. Mail is always
exciting, and I know that the packages from OQC are always appreciated. It is
truly a great service that you all do and we are blessed to have you guys here
for us and for the wounded that we treat.
Take care and hug each other for ALL of us.
XXXXX
Message received January 29, 2008
IRAQ
Good to hear from you,
We have been quite busy lately with a lot of rotations. Everything seems to be
moving at a really fast pace. The bread machines, I cannot say enough about
those. We have them set up through out the Hospital. Everyone roams around
smelling the bread and wondering when the bread will be ready. We used to
keep our little secret in the HQ section, but too many people sniff their way in.
I have become the breadmaker and master slicer. I am not sure how, however
I must say it went from a loaf to several a day. We went from plain bread to
bread and butter, to all the side helpings you can pour on top. People use to
have a 1/2 slice have gone to making sandwiches.
You would not believe the feeding frenzy. I use to make it for the a.m. report
and have a slice left over. Now, I have to make it for after the meeting, and
hope I get a piece. You would not believe how this has changed our mood.
Incredible. We have had some people request all kinds of bread. People have
given me all kinds of mixes to make for them. I tell them all I do is pour it in,
and here you go. I must say others have tried once or twice, and quit with bad
results. I am not sure how they messed it up, but the bread was a little flat and
didn't quite look good...Ha-Ha..I am the only one who is allowed to cut and
make the bread. Funny, as it seems I have a lot of requests and deliveries to
make. Excellent...
We are on a long tour, and have several miles to go. I wish I was back home,
unfortunately we drive on through the snow, rain, and mud. The CSH sees
people or units coming and going and we have become the oldest unit still
here, showing everyone else the way home. Not much fun, however we are
making the best of it, and waiting for the warm weather.
Thanks for your support and yes, we will be here a while. Ship away, ship
away, and cast away.
Thanks,
XXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster TF XXX
Letter received January 28, 2008
IRAQ
On behalf of the Soldiers of XXXth Combat Support Hospital, Task Force
XXXXX, we would like to thank you for the care packages that you have sent.
We are very grateful for the items that we received and most of all for the
support you have provided. The generosity of your organization greatly
impacts the morale of our Soldiers. Your kindness has been felt around the
Combat Support Hospital; specifically impacting the Intermediate Care Ward
patients. We look forward to providing elite care, thanks in part, to your
donations.
Thank you again for your support!
Eagle Medics!
Sincerely,
XXXXX (Medic)
ICW 1 Donations Committee
Message received January 20, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Hi Lori and all of your elves at OQC,
Are they still called elves when it isn't Christmas time?
I read your newsletter and was truly surprised. I really didn't realize just how
large OQC is, how big your warehouse is, and how many units that you all
support. I always see on the boxes that you sent that we are Unit 32, but I
guess that just didn't sink in the old brain that you all do so much. When do you
have the time to do anything else like eat and sleep and breathe? I can't tell
you how much I respect you all.
We got your boxes of sweats and trach kits this week. I am sure they had been
sitting for a while, since the weather in XXXXX has been so terrible and that is
where all the mail and supplies come from. XXXXX is situated in a valley
surrounded by mountains that look so close that you think you could touch
them. Last night they were 4 degrees and we were 22! But we are always a lot
hotter in the summertime. So I guess it is a fair trade.
We couldn't use the trach cleaning supplies (but I kept the rest of the stuff), so
I gave it to some of the Afghani doctors from the ANA (Afghani National
Army) who come here for training. They were most happy to receive them. If
you get a chance tell that cancer survivor, he has best wishes from them
headed his way as well as from me.
Your weather looks like it has been quite interesting too. I hope you all are
keeping warm.
I am getting a lot of gardening catalogues and offers from the internet, so I
have begun to drool over the flowers and plants, and looking at all the pretty
things and day dreaming. It will have to wait and then some when I get back
One day I would like to have the backyard landscaped. I am one of those
people that goes to the home improvement store or nursery and sees
something I think is pretty and I buy it. Then I get home and there it is. Usually
I just stick it in the flowerbed! But it is fun and fun to think about now as well.
Our clinic is always busy with the poor and their ailments. Our casualties load
had been light until earlier in the week. The casualties lived 100 feet away from
our XXXX building. The rest of their company was outside just waiting, and the
news wasn't too good. One we couldn't save. One was severely injured, and
was too "sick" to evac out, so we kept him here for two days, then the air force
came and got him. Sad, especially since they were ambushed. It is why we are
here though and really hits home not only because he lived so close and was
part of the FOB, but because he is so young. We hadn't had an American
casualty in a good while and some times I think that my Soldiers almost forget
that they have it so good here. When this happens, it hurts.
Tell everyone how much we appreciate them and of course you too, Lori.
XXXXX
Message received January 15, 2008
IRAQ
…Thank you for all you do!!! You touch a lot of lives and make a heck of a
difference for everyone you send things to. Hope to hear from you again soon.
Sincerely,
XXXXXX
P.S. Thanks for the lift!!! ;)
Letter received January 15, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
I wanted to thank you and the many friends who have sacrificed their time and
effort to send us Christmas cheer. Your support is so very welcome and helps
to buoy our spirits as we count down the time to our homecoming.
The gifts have been used to good purpose - as medical personnel, we often go
out on humanitarian missions. This helps our soldiers by virtue of their
association with those of us providing medical care. On those missions, we see
a lot of children and due to your generosity we have been able to give them
small things such as stuffed animals and toys - that means a lot to them.
The pancake mixes and syrup will be used for a special Christmas pancake
breakfast for the unit. As you know, morale is harder to maintain over the
holidays, but this should go a long way toward that purpose.
We are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel as we are now at the
point where we have less than XX months to go. Again, we appreciate your
support and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
XXXXXX
Message received January 8, 2007
IRAQ
Just thought I would send you an update. I started getting some of your
packages in. All I have to say is WOW!!!! and thank you so much. I received a
lot of backpacks and sweat suits and some blankets most of the sweat suits are
gone already and the backpacks are going too. Considering that I just got the
packages yesterday I would say they are very much appreciated.
Once again thank you very, very much you have really helped a lot of solders
and they are very grateful.
Thank you,
XXXXX
Letter received January 5, 2008
IRAQ
You guys are amazing. The bread machines and mixes will put smiles on the
Soldier's faces for many months to come. We feel loved and supported.
Blessings and prayers,
Chaplain XXXXX
Letter received January 5, 2008
IRAQ
I wanted to personally thank you for your support during the Holiday Season. I
am the Commanding Officer of Company C. The Company consists of XXXX
Marines and Sailors which are currently occupying four different camps
throughout Al Anbar Province. The average age of the Marines in the
Company is approximately twenty-two years old and more than 60% of them
have been previously deployed to Iraq.
...The letters you have written to me and my men have helped to bring some
good memories of home over to this place. The holidays will be difficult being
separated from family and friends, however, my Marines and I will make the
best of it and continue supporting the mission at hand. The men of Company C
wish you and your families a safe and memorable Holiday Season and a
prosperous New Year!
Sincerely,
XXXXXXXX
Capt USMC
Commanding Officer
Letter received January 5, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Dear Operation: Quiet Comfort Patriots,
I wanted to take a few minutes from my day to write and thank you for your
very thoughtful and kind contributions to my Soldiers. We especially
appreciated the Breakfast-In-A-Box to make our own breakfast. Now, God
Bless our cooks, and we love them, but fresh pancakes just bring us closer to
home! We used the griddle on Dec. 7th and this morning, too (Dec. 16). All of
the other items will really help too, especially the snacks and hygiene items!
We have a very small store on the Firebase about the size of one and one-half
sea containers which has some sundry items but they often run out of snacks
and hygiene items. Your thoughtfulness in the items you sent was awesome.
On behalf of the Soldiers of the XXXXth Forward Surgical Team please convey
my thanks to all your volunteers. I have never felt this level of support and am
grateful to each of you.
In the magic of this Christmas Season may you each be blessed from on high
with some of His most priceless gifts of good health, family and love.
Sincerely,
MAJ XXXXXX
AFGHANISTAN (Forward Surgical Team)
All nine boxes arrived yesterday. That they all came at the same time
is a wonder since the mail is just so weird lately. I think that
sometimes mail sits somewhere for extended periods of time, and I
suspect that it is XXXX since we often hear about huge amounts of
mail coming our way (the FOB). For a while the mail was flown in then
over the winter the mail was contracted out to some local who hired
the Afghanis to convoy it here. The trucks, called jingle trucks
because they decorate them with bells and chains and material and
they jingle, were ambushed a couple of times and now we are back to
flights, but if the weather is bad or the cloud cover is bad, it is a
no go and we wait.
…Mail is coming like Christmas around here and your boxes of goodies
are always welcomed with lots of enthusiasm. Somebody is opening the
boxes and several are looking over the opener's shoulder. It is funny
to watch and reminds me of little kids at a birthday party. The
clinic keeps us busy and the casualty load is beginning.
We hung up the Freedom Quilt outside of the OR area so that all of us
can look at it. It does make me feel good to see the support from
home. I am not hearing or reading as much about people not supporting
the war as before the politicians started fighting...
Hope the weather is settling down for you all. We had a couple of
days of 95s and then the rain (yes, rain) moved in and it has
drizzled for a couple of days. It is about 75 right now and very
pleasant. I wish I could bottle it up and save it for later.
Thanks again for the great boxes. Tell everyone how much we
appreciate what you all do for us.
Hug your families and keep them safe for us.
XXXX
Message received April 9, 2008
IRAQ
Just got another box full of bread mix and spreads that you had sent
the chaplain. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! :-) Nothing like the
smell of fresh bread to get everyone out of the woodwork. The various
types of bread were great as well.
I actually have 6 people just in my ER from Hawaii, so your Hawaiian
bread mix was a big hit. What a great package.
Thanks for everything.
MAJ XXXXX
Message dated April 1, 2008
IRAQ
...About a month and a half ago we carried the casket of a man that
couldn't be identified...They couldn't tell what skin color he was,
what branch of service he was in, what unit he was from or when he
had died. So we carried him from Baghdad to Kuwait International and
another plane took him from Kuwait International to Dover Air Force
Base for a DNA test. This is all we knew, and just like Paul Harvey,
here is the rest of the story.
On April 9th, 2004 20-year old Private Matt Maupin was captured in an
ambush. A week later an Arab television network aired a tape of him
surrounded by a lot of men holding automatic rifles. That June
another video aired showing an Army man being executed. The video was
blurry and they couldn't make out who it was. It could have been him
but no one will ever know for sure.
For 4 years now he has been missing in action. In Baghdad there was a
table set and reserved for him like with other POW/MIA...We carried
the now Sergeant Keith (Matt) Maupin home.
...The unidentified man we carried that day was Matt Maupin. My crew
and I had a very small part in everything to do with Matt, but it's
nice to know we helped get him home. And now you know the rest of the
story. The end.
Also today just happends to be the anniversary that Jessica Lynch was
captured. FYI
XXXX
Message received April 4, 2008
IRAQ
Got the boxes today and the phone cards are safe. We will use these
card for Soldiers (Wounded Warriors) going to Germany and on their
way home. These will be a great help for them.
Debra (Head Nurse, ER) asked me about the Bread Mix and I told her we
got them and a lot of them. Due to the Catholic Mass tomorrow, we
have decided not to open the boxes today but I can't wait to bake
some bread for the staff, so I got into the bread mix box and baked
some today and oh.. the smell of fresh baked bread... it causes
people to keep coming back to our office asking when the bread is
ready?
Please allow us to say you always made our day here in Iraq. Last few
days were so tense for us not only due to patient flow here, but also
the staff were so busy. I know you're watching the news.
Thanks for your prayers and non stop support.
Blessings,
XXXX
Message received March 31, 2008
QATAR
...I can't possibly be grateful enough, thank you so much, this is a first for me
to ask for help and get a reply - Thank God for the internet and "American
Heroes" such as yourselves…Organizations and Americans like yourselves
give us hope! It gives us strength in our times of need, it very well may save
the life of a soldier that is re-energized by the inspiration
you give us with your support.
God Bless You, God Bless America, and may God Bless our young Men and
Women deployed around the world.
CSM XXXX
Message received March 31, 2008
IRAQ
Oh wow!!! I am so excited! This is really awesome. Thank you so much
for everything that you and all of the volunteers are doing! It means
so much. The soldiers are so excited to see what we got. We happen to
not have a 7-ton truck...but we have an FLA. haha...hopefully that
will work. You are awesome.
I can not say enough to say how wonderful y'all are. It is great. I
have been telling everyone...and they can't believe how wonderful
people are being. I just don’t know what else to say. Seriously!!!! Is
there anything that WE can do for all of YOU that support us?
I am going to try and start taking pictures of the soldiers receiving
stuff...it is just so hard sometimes when we have so much stuff going
on...but I promise I will do my best! I DO have a company photo!!
Would you like that? It has everyone in there!!! Our company is
small...but we support over 30,000 soldiers. SO, be reassured that
everything you send is NOT being used by just my company...I have
been sending boxes to a LOT of the soldiers in the outer FOBs and
JSS's. They appreciate it all too! I have to go for now...but let me
know what we can do for you!! Thank you again...so much!
V/R,
SGT XXXX
XXXX BCT Mental Health NCOIC
Message received March 27, 2008
Landstuhl Regional Medical Center-Germany
I was medevac’d last week from Iraq to Landstuhl, Germany. I spent
Easter in a hospital. I didn't have anything with me upon arrival. I
received one of your care packages that had some personal hygiene items
as well as comforting items. I also read some of the cards while I was
in my hospital bed. It is comforting to know that there are still
caring members of society back home supporting us. I want to take this
opportunity to thank your organization for all you do.
Message received March 23, 2008
IRAQ
DEAR LORI PATE AND THE MEMBERS OF OPERATION QUIET COMFORT:
Words could not express how happy I was to receive the gifts for our
Soldiers. I can hardly believe to see 8 boxes of care packages that
you sent to us. I would like to cordially thank every member of your
sublime Organization. Those goodies you donated to us could really
make a difference in the lives of so many Soldiers. There's no doubt
that our tasks and sacrifices are perfectly matched by your show of
concern and support to us. We truly felt being loved by you and felt
that we've never been forgotten.
With God's grace, and with the continuing support of wonderful people
like YOU, we'll be able to carry lightly the hardships and
difficulties we encounter in our missions thinking that there are
loving people to care for us; we'll always be motivated in every way
and we'll be able to carry out the banner of love and peace to the
Iraqi people.
May God greatly reward you for your thoughtfulness and love! Rest
assured; that I will always continue to remember you all in my daily
prayers and, as a priest, to offer my daily Masses.
HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE!!!
With love and prayers,
CH (CPT) XXXX
Message received March 23, 2008
IRAQ
Greetings from Iraq,
Lori- I have received the two boxes that you all sent me and they were
quite a hit! You should have seen all the new friends I made when I
opened those two boxes LOL. I shared almost everything my fellow
Soldiers. I kept the kool-aid packets for myself, I love that stuff.
You included some great snacks that are not available here; cheese dip,
tuna fish, and the healthy snacks.
Thank you very much for brightening up our day here in XXXX.
Sincerely,
SFC XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ (Combat Outpost)
Thanks for checking on us. We are doing good, we are waiting on the
word whether we are moving locations or not. But other than that
business is as usual.
We treat all patients and all types. Just yesterday we had a small
mass casualty. We had five seriously injured locals and we are only
set up for two treatment beds, so we had to quickly react and call
for any help for the other guys.
...We cut a lot of clothes and it is nice to be able to cover all our
casualties and send them away, if they don't get sent up to the
hospital, with some pants or shorts on. People tend not to like to
be naked in public. But other than that we’re good, time is passing and
hopefully soon, we'll be back home soon, sending donations to our
fellow soldiers back here. Thanks again for all you support and help.
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
This week and last week were busy time for us here at the hospital
and in fact this time I will ask for more stuff from you. After the
last e-mail I sent you about handing 5 go bags out, the week after
that I handed 7 and then two more the following week. I'm low on my
supplies of go bags.
The bread maker is doing a great job of ministry here. The smell of
the fresh bread is killing the staff in our wards that they will come
lining up in my office. I bake twice a day. When I come to work at 6
am that's always one of the things that I do then one more around 10
am for those who will not have time for lunch...
Thanks and may God continue to bless you all!
CH XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Always so good to hear from you! You are so sweet to ask, and yes,
we are doing fine. The weather is warming up more rapidly than we
counted on (in other words, it's getting HOT), and spirits are on the
uphill swing - all good things.
Because we have been blessed with a lower census of late, we are
pretty good on most things you mentioned on the list. However, there
are always a few things we run low on and they are:
flip-flops (you knew this would be on the list!)
underwear - male & female
coffee and <condiments>(are ALWAYS in need)
and of course, bread mixes (never enough of that!).
We are sad, as one of the bread machines that I had given to one of
the areas in the hosp. has mysteriously disappeared, and folks are
all up in arms about it. We still have one more that we keep pretty
busy, but I sure hope the other one surfaces soon, as you have really
started a good thing with that bread. YUM!!!
Thank you so much for all you do for us. You are appreciated more
than you can ever know. I hope to hear back from you real soon, and
I wish all of you and yours a wonderful Easter celebration!
Much love - your friend, XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Once again you have all come thru for us in a great way. Yes we
can use the water balloon launchers and frisbees and footballs and
anything that will make our days here shorter. I am trying to build
a sports box for my Company as we are limited on sporting supplies
here. I appreciate everything that you all always do for us, and we
put everything you give us to good use.
Thank you for all you do for us and for your continued support.
Thank you for your kindness. Have a great day. The cd with all of
your supporters and the music was excellent. I shared it with my
Company so they can see where all the support comes from. Have a
great one.
In your service,
1SG XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
The internet has been off and on for weeks and I never know if what I
am sending goes out. Earlier in the deployment I know I was sending
emails out and they just were not being delivered. I've often
wondered how much is floating out there in internet purgatory.
We have been busy with lots of patients in the clinic, operating 4
days a week and our casualties have started to increase. The clinic
will definitely have to slow when the op-tempo goes back up as I know
it will very soon.
…I will write more soon. I don't know if you got my thanks for the
great CD you all sent. If that doesn't make people proud of what they
are doing (I am talking about you all), nothing will. And the people
you sent it to as thanks should be motivated to keep giving!
XXXX
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Things here are ok. The past couple of weeks have been crazy. The
patient load here has almost doubled. Right now we are pretty much set
with everything. The only thing I can think of that we could use is
flip flops. We go through those pretty fast. If you could send some
that would be great! Thank you so much for everything you’re doing!! We
all appreciate it!
Message received March 21, 2008
IRAQ
Good day! My name is XXXX. I am one of the many soldiers currently
deployed in Iraq. I work at one of the hospitals in XXXX as a Radiology
Technician. As I go through the hospital making my morning round of x-
rays, I actually realized that many of the beds in our hospital do not
have pillows. Many patients have make-shift pillows of rolled up sheets
to support their heads.
...I am writing to ask if you would be able to donate any hospital
pillows and/or pillow cases for the soldiers and other patients we
receive here. We are an XXXX-bed hospital, with a XXXX-bed Return-to-
Duty housing for the soldiers not assigned to the hospital who are
transitioning from inpatient to outpatient to return to work.
Your support from the home front is greatly appreciated!
Message received March 20, 2008
IRAQ
Things are moving along, I think the sand storms are slowing down and
people are coming back outside. The temperature seems to be heating
up in the 90s. We just received a huge supply of clothes, underwear,
shirts, and shorts. I know the bread mixes are still the biggest
hit, I just made a loaf of "cinnamon bread today". Excellent, keep
em coming, we are definitely cooking up a storm.
Gratitude Quilts might come in handy with some of the staff for the
hard work and cool nights. I know the command loves their coffee and
healthy snacks. I think they live off the coffee and bread some days.
We were out at the site yesterday giving toys to the kids and working
with one of the clinics handing out toys. Seems so funny to see kids
playing at a park. You just don't see kids over here having fun.
The only ones we see are the ones shot up or caught up playing with
an IED (bomb). Not a pretty sight, but to see them running and
playing makes everyone think of going home.
We have not set the track up yet, however we are planning a race, and
handing out the cars. Time will tell how this goes. Everyone is
getting ready for Easter with an Egg hunt. I told them they had
better hide the eggs early before the sun comes out and makes hot
chocolate. All is good.
Good to hear from you, I hope all is well. I see alot of Tornados
and floods striking through the US along with high gas prices. I
wish I could send some gas back home: 18 cents a gallon over here.
Thank You for everything you do. God Bless..
"Letters are Smiles Across the Miles"
XXXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster TF XXXX
Message received March 20, 2008
IRAQ
I just wanted to send you a note of thanks for the wonderful bread
maker. I am the head nurse of the EMT and when we make the bread, the
whole section smells great. Everyone comes down wondering who's making
what. :) It may seem simple, but the true smell of bread baking (even
in a machine) makes you think of home. Nothing tastes better than
fresh bread, still warm. The machine is one of those things you don't
think of asking for, but when you get it, you are very grateful. The
mixes were great as well. I believe we have used 1-2 almost everyday
since getting the machine.
Thanks again for your thoughtfulness. What a great gift!!
MAJ XXXX
HN EMT
Message received March 19, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you and the other members of Operation: Quiet Comfort. Those
little pillows you sent come in very handy. We never know our schedule
or where we will be when we have the chance to grab a nap or get a full
night’s sleep, so having a pillow with us is no easy feat. Now we have a
way to do that. Your support is very much appreciated. Your prayers are
also crucial to us to provide the safety and security to lay down our
heads and sleep.
God bless,
XXXX
Chaplain
XX Marines
Message received March 13, 2008
IRAQ
We got the bread makers and just a few minutes ago I had a slice of freshly
baked bread from our ER where I installed the bread maker yesterday. It was
great. Even the evening shift told me last night that they are baking some
bread and it's AWESOME! Our ER is on the ground floor and I will bake from
the other bread maker here in my office at the second floor. Thank you so
much.
I also handed 5 GO Bags to our wounded warriors last night and they really
appreciate it. Sad to say that yes, five of our own were air evacuated last night
for Germany then to either Walter Reed or Brooks in San Antonio. They are
the latest of our wounded warriors.
I appreciate your support to us and the Soldiers know that you are all there for
us and will always pray for the troops.
Blessings,
Chaplain XXXX
Letter received March 12, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you very much for your recent package. I'm a doctor in the support
squadron of the XXX. I work in an aid station that does not have inpatients, but
we see plenty of soldiers every day from sprained ankles, to colds, stitches,
skin infections, and broken hearts. We have a lot of hard working medics who
work there every day, in addition to going out on convoys and responding to
emergencies.
Your gift of delicious coffee, nuts, granola bars and other snacks are greatly
appreciated by all of us. Often people don't have time to go all the way down
to the chow hall so having nutritious snacks like you sent goes a long way in
helping people get the job done.
It's also very nice to know we're remembered. This has been a long war, and
the continued energy and support of folks like you back home really does keep
us going. It also reminds us why we're proud to represent our wonderful USA!
Many thanks,
XXXX
Message received March 7, 2008
IRAQ
Dear Generous People:
Greetings of peace and joy in the Lord!
I am Chaplain (CPT) XXXX of the XXXX CSSB Battalion. I have XXXX Soldiers
under my care and ministry. We've been deployed in Iraq for 15 months tour.
I am asking your support, please, include our Troops as one of your recipients
of Care Packages.
Our Soldiers would truly appreciate and feel loved that people out there are
showing their support to the deployed Soldiers. As a Chaplain, I have some
Soldiers who encountered some family problems, which they needed to call
back home. I could have been pretty <helpful> if I had some Phone Cards
available that I could offer to them for emergency only. I am wondering if your
generous Organization could help with Phone Cards. Thank you so much for
your undying support to us. God bless your heart...
God's peace,
CH (CPT) XXXX
NOTE: Thanks to the **generous hearts** of OQC supporters, we are able to step up
immediately to assist this Chaplain and the Soldiers entrusted to his ministry.
Letter received March 6, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Dear Lori and Operation: Quiet Comfort,
We wish to thank you for your generosity. All gifts and contributions have
been put to very good use here in Afghanistan. The Battalion Aid Station here
in FOB XXXX has received many useful items that have been distributed
throughout the province to Soldiers whom welcome them with great gratitude.
Thanks to you and the other great Americans who support our efforts in the
"War on Terrorism" we are able to continue on a path of progress while
smiling and with our heads held high. Once again on behalf of our grateful
Soldiers here in Afghanistan - thank you.
Sincerely,
The 2 Fury Aid Station
82nd Airborne
March 5, 2008
IRAQ
<Huge Smile!> We shipped several hundred Pinewood Derby Car kits and all kinds of
hobby supplies over in our Holiday Shipment last fall. Well, this Combat Support
Hospital is ready to race and we just shipped them a track that will allow 4 cars to race
side by side! Here is the Chief Wardmaster's response to word that the track was on the
way...Soldiers need something to take their minds off of war. HOOAH!
All right, I have a bunch of woodworkers here who are very anxious to
start building the kits. I am planning a big race. We will definitely be taking
pictures for you. I can't wait to see what everyone is going to say about the kit.
I will have to wait to surprise them. I use to race derby cars every year with
my son inScouts. This should be quite a tournament. I look forward to this,
and "Thank you very much for all your Support".
...The temperature is starting to heat up. Reached the 70s here lately with very
strong winds. Sand storms are very bad lately with the high winds coming in
around the afternoon. Hard to explain, except it seems to make the day look
night. Very mysterious looking, like the movies. I would send pictures, but they
really do not explain what it seems like.
XXXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster
Letter received February 19, 2008
From a GO Bag Recipient
Thanks for your support! It's not us willing to die for this country that makes a
soldier brave. It's people like you and our families that give us courage and
humility! And it's our children and the generations to come that makes it all
worth fighting for. So I thank you once again for your support and helping us
find our strength and courage.
Sincerely,
XXXX
Message received February 19, 2008
IRAQ
I didn't realize so much time had passed since I last wrote you until now - wow!
Time is just flying by... YIPPEE!! Ahem - um... sorry that it has been so long
since you last heard from me - I hope you are well and that all of you had a
wonderful Valentine's Day from all the people in your lives who love you
(count me among them).
I wanted to let you know that I have received this week the following: flip-flops,
sweat sets, and bread mixes with the accompanying jams and jellies. And may
I just politely and sweetly say...OH MY GOSH!!! ARE YOU GUYS INCREDIBLE
OR WHAT??!!!! Thank you so much for your timely gifts! By the way - I have
already passed some of the bread mixes on to the others who own the bread
machines, and many, many service members are singing your praises!!! You
are wonderful and incredible and a blessing to be sure.
Oh, I have to tell you a little story about the shoes you sent last month. A few
days ago, we had an Iraqi national patient that had been treated by us for
some time, and was being sent home and would be continuing treatment at a
local facility where he lived. However, the journey was going to be by convoy
and many hours away. Since he had been in the hospital for many days, he
had been wearing the regular scrubs (like everyone else) and flip-flops (like
everyone else), but had no clothes to go home with. However, I was able to
give him a set of sweats that fit him perfectly, and a pair of shoes before he
left. And I have to tell you - you would have thought he was a kid on Christmas
morning. He kept asking if these were his to keep? We kept assuring him that
they were. He got all misty and thanked us over and over again. Hearts and
minds, my dear - it's the hearts and minds that is winning this war. And it is
made possible by you and all those that assist you in this worthy cause. Thank
you for all you do - now I am misty (again)!
Please take care, and I hope the winter weather is not too bad where you are.
The weather is just starting to turn nice again now, but today we have a wind
storm on our hands, which translates into a dust-storm also. Please, know you
guys are always in my prayers and that I hope to hear from you again real
soon.
Your friend - XXXX
Letter received February 16, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
"Strength and Honor"
Legion Company, XXXXX (Airborne) recognizes Operation Quiet Comfort
for your tireless dedication to supporting our company and our
mission in Afghanistan. It is a true testament to your character as
Americans. Thank you for your continued support of our efforts!
XXXXX
1SG, US Army
First Sergeant
XXXXX
Captain, Infantry
Commanding
XXXXX
1st Lieutenant, Infantry
Executive Officer
Card received February 13, 2008
Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Dear Quiet Comfort,
I would like to thank you for your blanket that I received during my time of
recovery while I was away from my family. The blanket allowed me to feel
close to family without actually being in the United States. Your volunteer
service to Soldiers, Marines and Airmen are greatly appreciated. We thank
you very much. God bless you.
Love,
SFC XXXXX
Letter received February 13, 2008
IRAQ
The Marines, Sailors and Soldiers of XXXXX would like to thank you for
everything you have done for us. Always know that your support means much
more than words can say, especially since we were away from our loved ones
this holiday season. You should be proud of your contributions and efforts to
support America's Global War on Terrorism during Operation Iraqi Freedom
06-08.2
XXXXX
Message received February 11, 2008
IRAQ
Thank you again for your continued support and generosity to my soldiers. It
is so good receiving boxes from you, and word spreads like wildfire when we
get them because the soldiers know there is always something good in them.
Please thank everyone who has a part in this, and tell them thank you a
thousand times over. Have a great day, and again thank you for your
continued love and support.
In your service,
XXXXX
P.S. Thanks for the music. It makes my day.
Message received February 2, 2008
IRAQ
Your support is very much appreciated...The gifts that you sent us are very
helpful to our wounded warriors. I just released four quilts yesterday for WW
ready to be taken to Germany.
<Black> back packs are needed too. We can use them for the Soldiers'
personal items. When they get here, they will be stripped of
everything. We have ample supply of toiletries but the <sweat sets> are
needed.
Thanks and may God bless you always.
XXXXXX
Message received January 29, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
...My guys will be so excited, especially the first time it starts spewing forth that
wonderful smell of baking bread. That will be a real treasure to have.
I will certainly pass on your address to our replacements. Mail is always
exciting, and I know that the packages from OQC are always appreciated. It is
truly a great service that you all do and we are blessed to have you guys here
for us and for the wounded that we treat.
Take care and hug each other for ALL of us.
XXXXX
Message received January 29, 2008
IRAQ
Good to hear from you,
We have been quite busy lately with a lot of rotations. Everything seems to be
moving at a really fast pace. The bread machines, I cannot say enough about
those. We have them set up through out the Hospital. Everyone roams around
smelling the bread and wondering when the bread will be ready. We used to
keep our little secret in the HQ section, but too many people sniff their way in.
I have become the breadmaker and master slicer. I am not sure how, however
I must say it went from a loaf to several a day. We went from plain bread to
bread and butter, to all the side helpings you can pour on top. People use to
have a 1/2 slice have gone to making sandwiches.
You would not believe the feeding frenzy. I use to make it for the a.m. report
and have a slice left over. Now, I have to make it for after the meeting, and
hope I get a piece. You would not believe how this has changed our mood.
Incredible. We have had some people request all kinds of bread. People have
given me all kinds of mixes to make for them. I tell them all I do is pour it in,
and here you go. I must say others have tried once or twice, and quit with bad
results. I am not sure how they messed it up, but the bread was a little flat and
didn't quite look good...Ha-Ha..I am the only one who is allowed to cut and
make the bread. Funny, as it seems I have a lot of requests and deliveries to
make. Excellent...
We are on a long tour, and have several miles to go. I wish I was back home,
unfortunately we drive on through the snow, rain, and mud. The CSH sees
people or units coming and going and we have become the oldest unit still
here, showing everyone else the way home. Not much fun, however we are
making the best of it, and waiting for the warm weather.
Thanks for your support and yes, we will be here a while. Ship away, ship
away, and cast away.
Thanks,
XXX
MSG, USA
Chief Wardmaster TF XXX
Letter received January 28, 2008
IRAQ
On behalf of the Soldiers of XXXth Combat Support Hospital, Task Force
XXXXX, we would like to thank you for the care packages that you have sent.
We are very grateful for the items that we received and most of all for the
support you have provided. The generosity of your organization greatly
impacts the morale of our Soldiers. Your kindness has been felt around the
Combat Support Hospital; specifically impacting the Intermediate Care Ward
patients. We look forward to providing elite care, thanks in part, to your
donations.
Thank you again for your support!
Eagle Medics!
Sincerely,
XXXXX (Medic)
ICW 1 Donations Committee
Message received January 20, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Hi Lori and all of your elves at OQC,
Are they still called elves when it isn't Christmas time?
I read your newsletter and was truly surprised. I really didn't realize just how
large OQC is, how big your warehouse is, and how many units that you all
support. I always see on the boxes that you sent that we are Unit 32, but I
guess that just didn't sink in the old brain that you all do so much. When do you
have the time to do anything else like eat and sleep and breathe? I can't tell
you how much I respect you all.
We got your boxes of sweats and trach kits this week. I am sure they had been
sitting for a while, since the weather in XXXXX has been so terrible and that is
where all the mail and supplies come from. XXXXX is situated in a valley
surrounded by mountains that look so close that you think you could touch
them. Last night they were 4 degrees and we were 22! But we are always a lot
hotter in the summertime. So I guess it is a fair trade.
We couldn't use the trach cleaning supplies (but I kept the rest of the stuff), so
I gave it to some of the Afghani doctors from the ANA (Afghani National
Army) who come here for training. They were most happy to receive them. If
you get a chance tell that cancer survivor, he has best wishes from them
headed his way as well as from me.
Your weather looks like it has been quite interesting too. I hope you all are
keeping warm.
I am getting a lot of gardening catalogues and offers from the internet, so I
have begun to drool over the flowers and plants, and looking at all the pretty
things and day dreaming. It will have to wait and then some when I get back
One day I would like to have the backyard landscaped. I am one of those
people that goes to the home improvement store or nursery and sees
something I think is pretty and I buy it. Then I get home and there it is. Usually
I just stick it in the flowerbed! But it is fun and fun to think about now as well.
Our clinic is always busy with the poor and their ailments. Our casualties load
had been light until earlier in the week. The casualties lived 100 feet away from
our XXXX building. The rest of their company was outside just waiting, and the
news wasn't too good. One we couldn't save. One was severely injured, and
was too "sick" to evac out, so we kept him here for two days, then the air force
came and got him. Sad, especially since they were ambushed. It is why we are
here though and really hits home not only because he lived so close and was
part of the FOB, but because he is so young. We hadn't had an American
casualty in a good while and some times I think that my Soldiers almost forget
that they have it so good here. When this happens, it hurts.
Tell everyone how much we appreciate them and of course you too, Lori.
XXXXX
Message received January 15, 2008
IRAQ
…Thank you for all you do!!! You touch a lot of lives and make a heck of a
difference for everyone you send things to. Hope to hear from you again soon.
Sincerely,
XXXXXX
P.S. Thanks for the lift!!! ;)
Letter received January 15, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
I wanted to thank you and the many friends who have sacrificed their time and
effort to send us Christmas cheer. Your support is so very welcome and helps
to buoy our spirits as we count down the time to our homecoming.
The gifts have been used to good purpose - as medical personnel, we often go
out on humanitarian missions. This helps our soldiers by virtue of their
association with those of us providing medical care. On those missions, we see
a lot of children and due to your generosity we have been able to give them
small things such as stuffed animals and toys - that means a lot to them.
The pancake mixes and syrup will be used for a special Christmas pancake
breakfast for the unit. As you know, morale is harder to maintain over the
holidays, but this should go a long way toward that purpose.
We are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel as we are now at the
point where we have less than XX months to go. Again, we appreciate your
support and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
XXXXXX
Message received January 8, 2007
IRAQ
Just thought I would send you an update. I started getting some of your
packages in. All I have to say is WOW!!!! and thank you so much. I received a
lot of backpacks and sweat suits and some blankets most of the sweat suits are
gone already and the backpacks are going too. Considering that I just got the
packages yesterday I would say they are very much appreciated.
Once again thank you very, very much you have really helped a lot of solders
and they are very grateful.
Thank you,
XXXXX
Letter received January 5, 2008
IRAQ
You guys are amazing. The bread machines and mixes will put smiles on the
Soldier's faces for many months to come. We feel loved and supported.
Blessings and prayers,
Chaplain XXXXX
Letter received January 5, 2008
IRAQ
I wanted to personally thank you for your support during the Holiday Season. I
am the Commanding Officer of Company C. The Company consists of XXXX
Marines and Sailors which are currently occupying four different camps
throughout Al Anbar Province. The average age of the Marines in the
Company is approximately twenty-two years old and more than 60% of them
have been previously deployed to Iraq.
...The letters you have written to me and my men have helped to bring some
good memories of home over to this place. The holidays will be difficult being
separated from family and friends, however, my Marines and I will make the
best of it and continue supporting the mission at hand. The men of Company C
wish you and your families a safe and memorable Holiday Season and a
prosperous New Year!
Sincerely,
XXXXXXXX
Capt USMC
Commanding Officer
Letter received January 5, 2008
AFGHANISTAN
Dear Operation: Quiet Comfort Patriots,
I wanted to take a few minutes from my day to write and thank you for your
very thoughtful and kind contributions to my Soldiers. We especially
appreciated the Breakfast-In-A-Box to make our own breakfast. Now, God
Bless our cooks, and we love them, but fresh pancakes just bring us closer to
home! We used the griddle on Dec. 7th and this morning, too (Dec. 16). All of
the other items will really help too, especially the snacks and hygiene items!
We have a very small store on the Firebase about the size of one and one-half
sea containers which has some sundry items but they often run out of snacks
and hygiene items. Your thoughtfulness in the items you sent was awesome.
On behalf of the Soldiers of the XXXXth Forward Surgical Team please convey
my thanks to all your volunteers. I have never felt this level of support and am
grateful to each of you.
In the magic of this Christmas Season may you each be blessed from on high
with some of His most priceless gifts of good health, family and love.
Sincerely,
MAJ XXXXXX