April 26, 2005
Dear Sirs:
In light of the recent deployment of National Guard troops from
our area, we are requesting assistance from the business community
to help the families left behind. The 228th Forward Support Battalion
Community Alliance of the Bethlehem region will be accepting donations
from local businesses, schools and churches. We would also appreciate
any discount coupons, gift certificates or any other means of assistance
to help these families over the time of the deployment. The families
will continue to celebrate birthdays and holidays even though they
may have a loved one serving in Iraq.
The 228th FSB Community Alliance will continue to give updates
on how you can help with this effort. We will be looking for monetary
donations for the purchase of needs of the troops not provided by
the military and to establish an account to be used by the Community
Alliance to support the family needs. Letters and post cards are
always appreciated by the troops; however, because privacy is of
great concern we cannot distribute individual addresses to anyone.
The Blue Star Mothers have offered to personally address letters
of support to the troops when submitted in unsealed envelopes or
on postcards with postage already on them. Letters and postcards
can be dropped off at your local armory.
Mobilization to Mississippi took place in January for training.
Deployment to Iraq is set for June 2005 with expected return to
the States in July of 2006. A large celebration will be held when
the soldiers return and all businesses and organizations that participate
will be acknowledged at that event.
One of our goals is to have signs showing support for our troops
throughout the community. They have been ordered and will be available
for sale through your local armory. Proceeds from this effort will
go to the Family Support Group.
We appreciate any commitment you can make to this effort and ask
that you contact your local armory or Betty Graver, Chamber
of Commerce, at 215-257-5390. With your help and support we can
help our soldiers feel comfortable knowing we care here at home.
Sincerely,
Mary Heaton, Volunteer
228th FSB Community Alliance
Betty Graver
Chamber of Commerce
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