This is the first letter that I have written to someone serving in our military who I did not personally know.

 

                I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your dedication and hard work serving over seas for our country.  I am 36 years old, married and have two young sons, who are 3 and 2 years old.  Your efforts will help to allow my sons to have a good future and the opportunity to live a life of freedoms and liberties.  If either of my sons, one day, wants to serve his country, I would be very proud of either son's service.  Knowing his efforts would allow future generations of Americans an opportunity to continue to enjoy freedoms would make me extremely proud.  I consider your current service as directly helping my family.  Thank you.

 

Day to day, I always take a couple minutes to think about all of you who are serving, helping our country and helping those people around the world who have lived under oppressive regimes, governments or dictators.  You make an enormous, positive difference in our world.  Keep your head held high and know you are completely appreciated. 

 

                Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, daily, for a successful mission and a safe return back home.  Your service to our country is very admirable.

 

                Thanks again,

                Chad 

 

I just wanted to say thank you for the care packages that my Soldiers and I received here in Afghanistan. I am the Platoon Leader of an Infantry platoon, and all the guys really liked the stockings stuffed with candy and other presents that you so graciously sent us. It is very uplifting to receive support from organizations such as yours. It is a reminder to all of us that there are people at home who do care for us and care for what we are doing over here. Thanks again. 

 

My name is Devin, I'm a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corp.  I am an Infantryman assigned to the 3rd platoon Kilo Company out of Kaneohe, Hawaii.  We are currently deployed to Helmand Province Afghanistan.   We just received a package from you all, and on behalf of myself and the rest of the 3rd PLT, we would like to extend our gratitude to you and say thank you so very much for what all you do!   Everyone involved with OSOT America takes time out of their day to get items to send to us and it is so appreciated.  I can't tell you enough!  My heart goes out to you all.   We have our new stockings hanging in our tent and plan to use them goodies when Christmas time rolls around!   It is very thoughtful of all the people involved with this and I would like to tell you thanks X's infinity!

I myself grew up in Riverton, Utah, south of Salt Lake City.  I am married to a beautiful woman named Jessica and we have 3 dogs named Cujo, Titan, and Monroe.  My father grew up in Rockford, Illinois!  My grandma still lives there as does a lot of my extended family.

3rd Platoon thanks you!   God Bless!

Sincerely, Devin

PS.  Sorry for the tear in the paper.   The letters from kids were the best.

(this letter took a month to get to us from the date on the letter)