Fort Drum, N.Y. is home to the United States Army’s 10th Mountain Division and the scene of several recent platoon deployments to Afghanistan.
Despite efforts at drawing down U.S. forces in the region, our brave men and women are still being sent to Support Operation Enduring Freedom. Among these platoons is a portion of the 3-71 Cavalry tasked with advising and assisting our Afghan partners through a transition designed to transfer full security control to them upon the 2014 withdrawal of U.S. forces.
Manhasset’s American Legion Auxiliary Unit 304 has “adopted” this platoon of approximately 150 men and women for the duration of their deployment (probably nine months).
We are once again asking for your assistance and the generosity you so willingly displayed when so many supported our Marines and soldiers in Afghanistan from 2010-2012.
The platoon arrived in Afghanistan in late September/early October and has asked us for only a few comfort items: hard candy (anything other than chocolate), gum, baby wipes, and water bottle mixes such as lemonade.
We also know from the past that they need sunscreen products, chap sticks, travel size toiletries, wisps (the waterless toothbrush/toothpaste), and granola/snack bars.
More than anything, they need our prayers and our letters. Please consider writing a positive message to a “Dear Soldier” or drawing a homemade card.
There are several locations where you may donate items. Marked boxes are at the entrance to St. Mary’s Church on the parking lot side. The mailbox outside of the American Legion Hall at 27 Bayview Avenue, which is usually for the collection of American Flags, will now also be used as a drop box for donations for our Soldiers. Also, on Oct. 26 the American Legion Hall will be open as a collection site for donations between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Thank you for your anticipated generosity to those who so faithfully guard our freedoms. You may contact me with any questions at patobrien17@msn.com or 516-850-5702.
Patricia M. O’Brien
President, American Legion
Auxiliary Manhasset Unit 304
