FYI for those who would like to help. I was in this position for the Gulf war, and know those free phone calls helped a lot. These aren't free, but still will help out a lot.

Wendy

Mr.. Bitz, Col Delair, I've been asked on occasion if there was anyway to send something over to the "troops in and around Afghanistan," and thought this might fit the bill. What follows is a description of a program that I saw in a local Wal-Mart and inquired about. Wal-Mart, along with AT&T and the USO, is sponsoring this program at their stores throughout the U.S.. I thought it was a great way for many people to do a little something for the holidays. If you believe that it is worthy of forwarding out for information, please do.

These three aforementioned organizations are working together to give their customers and associates the opportunity to send a phone card to overseas military men and women so that they can stay in touch with friends and loved ones during the holidays.

Today, we've got thousands of service men and women overseas - some already engaged and others standing ready - to help make the world a safer place. As many of us in uniform, past and present, can attest to, one of the things we miss most is the opportunity to stay connected with family and friends.

This program is simple, and this is how we can all participate: * Beginning now, visit your local Wal-Mart store and look for the "Help Our Overseas Troops Dial Home for the Holidays" display. * Pick up the tear sheet located near the display and take the tear sheet to the cashier. * Pay the cashier $11.34 for the 120 minute AT&T phone card, and Wal-Mart will donate an additional phone card for every one they sell.

These cards will be distributed to soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines overseas through USO bases throughout the world. * The program will end December 9.

Thank you for your consideration.

V/R, Joel Major Joel G. Ogren U.S. Marine Corps Deputy Director, Technology Services Organization Defense Finance & Accounting Service 1500 E. 95th Street Kansas City, MO 64197 (816) 926-7374 DSN: 465-7374 Fax: (816) 926-3361 Email: Joel.Ogren@dfas.mil

-- Wendy A (phillips-anteswe@pendleton.usmc.mil), November 28, 2001

Answers

Wendy, neat idea! I also saw a commercial for Circuit City in which any one coming in to the store can make a short video message to the troops for free. (Telling them how much we appreciate them). Circuit City is going to mail all of the videos over to them. I believe it ends at the end of December.

-- Annie (mistletoe@kconline.com), November 28, 2001.