More Letters

And some comments from soldiers who have been getting books and magazines donated by people in town:

Dear Miss Sara, I am so touched by the letters and packages you have sent in the past week, I do not know what I have done to deserve someone like yourself supporting me but I am very honored and grateful.The books were really great, by the time I had finished reading your letter all my guys had taken everything! It is cool because that's what they are for right?

(from a medic with the 4th ID near Baghdad)

It is really helpful to receive mail here-it makes my day. Thank you very much for the books and magazines-all the other females thank you. I am in a tent with 6 other female soldiers and we were excited that they will give us something to do for a while. I hope all is well with you. I really do appreciate everything that you have done for me and I hope that one day I can some how repay you.
(from a nurse with the 205th Medical Unit in Kuwait)

We appreciate the project you are working on (collecting books for soldiers). In fact somebody asked me yesterday if I had any more books!
(from a soldier with 3/237th Infantry in Baghdad)

Hey Sara. It is good to hear from you too. I will going home for R&R soon. I will be back here on Jan 2. I received the package. Me and my friend are lovin the games. We had a connect four and hotshot b-ball tournament before guard duty. Of course you guys will always be my adopted moms. We love you guys to death. Tell all the Army Moms you remind us why we are here doing the job we do. Thanks. Continue 2 pray 4 me and all the troops here. TTYL!
(from a soldier in the Signal Corps outside of Baghdad)

I WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT I RECEIVED YOUR MAIL. I CAN'T EXPLAIN HOW MUCH YOUR SUPPORT MEANS TO ME. I'M GLAD THERE ARE PEOPLE LIKE YOU THAT DO ACTUALLY CARE ABOUT SERVICE MEMBERS. AGAIN THANK YOU AND I APPRECIATE THE SUPPORT AND CARING ABOUT SOLDIERS. RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(from a Ranger in the 82nd Airborne Division)

Dear Sara, Thank you so much for the books for my platoon. They really appreciated it very much. We have been in Samara for the last three weeks. Will will be in Mosul to relieve the 101st very soon. Everything has been going well over here. The weather has been good lately too. Have a great day.

PS Thanks again for the books, keep them coming!

(from an infantry Sergeant outside of Mosul)

Dear Sara, Happy Holidays! Thank you for all the books you sent. They were a real treat. The soldiers here really enjoyed them (or are still enjoying them in most cases). Your generosity is much appreciated. I wish your son the best of luck in the Army. Once again, thank you, and God Bless.

(from a Mississippi National Guard Captain)

Hi Sara, hardcovers are fine, we have a library at the Chapel that has some. Anything you send will go to a soldier that needs it. I'll make sure they get passed around and hopefully, after we leave, our library will stay intact for the next group. Thank you for thinking about us and doing what you can to make it better for us. Just knowing that strangers are going out of their way for us makes us feel good. Once again, thank you for taking the time and spending the money to get these books out to us.

(from a female soldier in the 1st Infantry Division)

Hey Sara, first let me say thank you for all the packages and support that you've given me, it really means a lot. I keep trying to write you a letter, but any time I sit down to write it we get called on a mission. Such is our life in the Infantry. No one can complain about our living conditions because it beats sleeping in a hole in the desert somewhere.( which we've done many nights...) But for the most part, we're just average guys We work out in our off time (what little there is), watch movies, play video games...We play football, soccer, baseball...Anything to keep yourself occupied. We also find a lot of ways to laugh, because that's one of the best ways to cope with all that goes on. So a lot of practical jokes are played, although when it comes to mission time, I've never worked with such professionals. You've got to realize its not AS bad for me... I'm a young, single guy... A lot of guys are around my age, but are married, and have had their first child already. They are not only away from their Moms and Dads, but their wives and kids too. Some of them have only seen pictures of their children, and for them, I do feel bad. But we all took this job knowing the stipulations, and being Airborne, understanding more is required of us than soldiers.

(from a soldier in the Airborne Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division)

Sara, I ask myself all the time, what have I done to deserve such unending support from people like you? Whatever it was I am very glad it happened and I got to meet you. Thank you for everything. I hope you and your family have a great Christmas! I will be thinking of you all out here. Take care of yourself.
(from a soldier in the 4th ID near Baghdad)

Dear Sara, I received your first card a few weeks ago, but a couple of days ago I received a box of books from you too. I wanted to say that thank you! I read a lot and out here it's not very easy to come by books. I shared with my fellow soldiers and they all said to tell you thanks. It's nice to know that people back home still believe in us when our own faith in ourselves falters. You brought smiles to many faces, thank you. I hope your son thrives in airborne training, he'll never forget it.

Thanks again,

(from a female soldier in Signal Co)

PS I have a soldier in need of a reminder that someone still believes in him (name and address included)

Hey Sara, First of all I want to say thank you very much for spending the time to write and send things to me. That's so sweet of you. I'm sorry I haven't been able to write sooner, they've been keeping us real busy around here. Yesterday I missed breakfast lunch and dinner so those snacks came in real handy. The rest of the guys wanted me to tell you thanks for the books, we really enjoyed them. I gotta run, time to go to work.

Thank you again so much.

(from a soldier in 1st AD Artillery Div)

Sara, Hi, everything is going good here. only a few more weeks until we go back to Kuwait. that is really awesome news for me and anyone else! Today we are going to pleasantville, the village of very proamerican people near our base... so i will get to play with the kids and give them some marbles that were sent to me. I want to thank you so much for being my adoptee army mom :-) you have definately shown your support through letters, care packages, and emails. i would very much enjoy being Dan's 'Army Brother' and send him letters and stuff too while he is away. I better get going. Thanks for everything, God bless,

(from a soldier in the Civil Affairs Division who as been in Iraq since last April)

hey again, I'm in airborne infantry. a grunt i guess you could say.... and thanks again for the packages. the guys love it when stuff comes in. we've all enjoyed everything very much. and since the power goes out here alot books are a great time passer. but i have to run for now, talk to you again soon and thanks so much.

(from a soldier in the 82nd Airborne Division)

AGAIN WE THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT,NO NEED TO SEND MORE MAIL TO IRAQ CAUSE WE'LL PROBABLY BE HOME BEFORE IT GETS HERE. WE WILL WRITE YOU WHEN WE GET BACK TO LET YOU KNOW HOW OUR TRIP BACK WAS AND TO LET YOU KNOW WE LANDED SAFELY....ALSO ONE OTHER THING YOUR BEST THANKS AGAIN WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!
(from a Ranger in the 82nd Airborne Divi

Dear soldiers angels,

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your continuing support of the soldiers in Iraq and elsewhere. I know from a personal perspective that your generosity made a world of difference to me and to my soldiers. They may not always write back and they may not always sound as excited in the letters that they do write back, but they are thankful. Each and every one of them. Getting mail is the greatest morale boost in theater, because it means somebody cares. You are all doing more than you probably realize. Many of these young men and women are over there and have nobody that cares about them, but you are there, and they love you for it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

(Captain of Reserve Unit recently returned from Iraq-letter posted on our Soldiers Angels message board)

Sara, Thank you so much for the care package. Me and my shop loved it, thank you. The chocolate powder is very good and goes well with coffee in the mornings. Everyone enjoyed the DVD even the ones who already saw it sat down and watched it again. And books, thank you for the books. The MWR has books, but they make you sign them out which is lame, we haven't even had time to read the ones you sent, yet alone walk two miles to sign out a book! We have decided to make a library, and since your books were the first ones to be put in it, we named it "Sara's Boredom Cure Section" or SBCS for short.

(soldier from Ft Hood recently deployed to Iraq-currently in Baghdad)

Dear Sara, Thank you for the wonderful care package! The soldiers enjoyed it. Best of luck to your son and thank you for your support.
(soldier in a Signal Battalion deployed to Iraq-currently in Baghdad)

Hi Sara, I just thought I'd let you know that I did receive both boxes of books and a Valentine's Day card. It's great to know that people we don't even know care enough to do this for us. Thank You!
(soldier in the 1st Inf Div deployed to Iraq)

Ma'am: Good day. I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your generous donation to our soldiers. I cannot thank you enough for all your support and kind words. You make all our sacrifices worthwhile. Your support truly inspires our soldiers to do what they do and I cannot put it into words what that means. Additionally, I cannot thank you enough for your sacrifices. Your son is joining the most noble and honorable of causes and will no doubt be an asset to the Profession of Arms. Thanks for everything. You are wonderful!!
(Commander, Combat Support Hospital, Tikrit, Iraq)

Ma'am: Everything arrived today!!! I can't thank you enough. It is perfect. I hope you know how much we appreciate your generosity and support. You truly are an angel. Your son is joining an elite unit and will no doubt add to the proud tradition of the mighty All American. Take care and be safe.
(Commander, Combat Support Hospital, Tikrit, Iraq)

hi sara sorry i havent written in awhile but they moved me from night shift to days because they neded me to take charge of the day crew but anyways i just got one of your many packages yesterday the one that had red cross tissues in it. YES im fine all is well just wish i was home for my daughters birthday but what can i do. About limited email dont worry about that actually i love getting sent stuff soldiers get jealous because ive been getting alot of mail from the soldiers angels and especially u they always say u got another letter or package from sara. i like all the post cards u send me and love the goodies. Got to go for now but ill be wrtting u more often now that ive settled down in my new position.
(soldier in a Signal Battalion deployed to Iraq-currently in Baghdad)

I understand you have been one of the people back in the states sending packages of "support" and what not. I just wanna say I appreciate it greatly. It means the world to recieve a package or anything for that matter over here. One of my LT's signed me up for the Angel thing or whatever it is, and I get a package one day and I'm like, "Um.........who is this person, hehehe." But it was a great surprise.

(Medic, Combat Support Hospital, Tikrit, Iraq)

Sara, I received your box today, it was my very first piece of mail believe it or not. You mentioned a card but I have not gotten it yet. Mail is kind of weird here. A box sent standard mail makes it in 9 days and letters seem to go off into never, never land. But I eagerly look forward to getting more mail, it definitely makes my day. The books and magazines were a great hit and were moving off the shelf as soon as I put them out. We all appreciate them here and I am sure they will be read and reread many times. You all have brightened many a soldier's day and life. If you could only see their faces. Thanks so much for thinking of me and my soldiers. You all will be remembered in our prayers. I will keep an eye out for anyone not getting mail and send the names your way. Thanks Again,
( soldier with Multi National Force Group, Iraq)

Hello Sara, How are you doing? It's been soooo long since I've had a chance to email anyone. I was on the road for the last couple months and just got back a couple days ago. I found out that a lot of people had wrote me, but the mails were never forwarded to me. I was so glad when I opened up your package and found a DVD. I haven't watched TOTAL RECALL in years. It brought back a lot of memories. I haven't finished reading the books yet, but you chose some good ones to send me (#1 New York Best Selling). I thank you for your support, Sara. By the way, now I have a lot of great angels that adopted me and my friends are now jealous. they're all happy for me. They just hope that they had what I had. Sara, I am on the list to go back on the road again in a couple days; therefore I don't know if I'll get a chance to say goodbye before I do. We'll be back on the road to build a new military base from scratch for the marines. We won't have internet access or phone access whatsoever. Life has be so miserable on the road. No lights, no electricity, and no showers. We dig holes when we have to do a #1; that's how bad it gets. If you don't hear from me, I'll do whatever I can to mail you a letter. Once again, thank you so much for your support Sara...May God continue on blessing you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Marine deployed to Iraq)

No thanks are needed for the card, it's just a small way I can show right now the joy and good feelings I feel in my heart, it has been great getting to know you and your family, I truly am blessed, and I will never forget you no matter where I go.
(sailor on USS Shreveport)

Sara, The books are great and feel free to keep sending them as there is also a little library here in the recreation building that I can donate them to as well. And again I reiterate on the snacks and stuff, whatever you send and no matter ho wit arrives it will get consumed and enjoyed. I always sort the munchies out when they come and keep 1 or 2 of the good things and then put the rest in the community cabinet. I think the last batch lasted all of 3 days. We run a 24 hour operation in our cell so the late night crew really appreciates the munchies.
(soldier with Multi National Force Group, Iraq )

Dear Sara, Our only regret was not being able to present the Certificate to you in person. You are truly a great American and a patriot. I have my platoon leaders checking for Soldiers needing encouragements from home. The books and magazines will be much appreciated. Thank you for your dedication to America's fighting team. You'll always be part of Beast Battery, 1-62 ADA. FIGHT LIKE HELL! HOOAH! With deep respect and admiration .
(Cpt 25th ID)

Sara, Got another box today. You are awesome. the reading material has proven very popular, especially the magazines. Got the box of goodies from the hospital folks a couple of days ago and it was great. Much of the stuff inside went quickly. Your photos are unbelievable. It looks like your house (or at least one room of it) has been taken over. You are truly a most generous person to put so much time and effort into this project and I cannot tell you how good it feels to get a package now and then.

Dear Sara, I recently received a care package from you. I am writing to tell you how much this means to me. Your generosity means a great deal to the soldiers fighting in Iraq. It is good to know that so many people like you support us and go out of their way to help out. Thank you for everything and God Bless You.

Hey Sara, Thank you so much for everything that you have sent me. I shouldn't have to buy anything else for the rest of the time I'm here. It is really awesome that you did't even know me and you took the time and money to send me something to make my day. I can't let you know how much it means to me to recieve things in the mail. If there is anything I can do to help you or to repay you.....PLEASE let me know if there is anything that you or your family need or want....it is the least that I could do. Thank you very much for all the books and magazines ...the girls are eating it all up. Thank you and I will email you later. Your Friend
(female nurse in Kuwait)

SARA,

AM THE ONE WHO IS PROUD AND HONORED TO HAVE BEEN ADOPTED BY SOMEONE SO SPECIAL LIKE YOURSELF. YOU HAVE MADE MY TRIP IN IRAQ BETTER. HEARING FROM YOU BRINGS A SMILE TO MY FACE. I KNOW IT IS HARD AT TIMES FOR ME TO CHECK MY EMAIL ACCOUNT BUT I ALWAYS FIND A WAY. ESPECIALLLY WHEN I KNOW THERE IS SOMEONE OUT THERE WHO CARES FOR ME AND HAS WROTE ME AN EMAIL. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU AND OTHERS EVERY TIME I CHECK MY EMAIL. THIS IS WHAT MAKES MY DAY. HEARING FROM YOU ALL. .... WELL GOTTA GO BUT HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU SOON. BYE. TAKE CARE AND DONT FORGET THERE IS A MARINE OUT HERE THAT CARES FOR YOU. BYE.

(from a female marine in Iraq)

Sara, Got the jerky this time and just in time since my jerky supply just got to zero. So now I am back with an emergency resupply. You could work for the Army with just in time logistics like that. The movies (DVDs) are also really appreciated. .... I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know I got the latest box and it made all my folks smile. Every day at mail all my troops look to see if I got another package. It is the highlight of the day for many of us. Thanks again so much. God Bless.
(soldier with Multi National Force Group, Iraq )

Hi, I'm in the active duty Army stationed out of Ft. Hood, Tx., but currently at Balad, Iraq. I'd like to say that I really appreciated the books and magazines that you sent to me and my soldiers. We really enjoyed having something to read when we do get some "down time." It's great because we all read the same thing so we have discussions about the books and laugh about the articles we read in the magazines. On behalf of my soldiers we want to give you a huge THANK YOU VERY MUCH for what you and people like you do for us to let us know that someone does care and to bring a little bit of home to us over here.

Mrs Ehrlich, Thank you very much for another package. That is very kind of you. I know all of my men love it when we get packages from you. They always bring a smile to our faces, and make the day better. Also, could you please tell Robin I said thank you very much the package she sent as well. She said you two were friends and I wanted her to know just how thankful I am. Please tell her I will work on the picture. Again thank you from the bottom of my heart. You truly are making a difference in everyone of my paratroopers lives.

Mrs. Ehrlich, I wanted to write a quick note to say thank you very much for the package you sent me. That was very nice of you, and means a lot to me. I shared it's contents with some of the guys here, and everyone appreciated your thoughtfulness. Again, thank you so much for your continued support. Dan is an awesome paratrooper and person. His dedication and ability to make something out of nothing amaze me daily. I wish I had more soldiers like him. Again, thank you very much and I hope all is well.

Thank you for the holiday gift bags. U don't know how much the guys were happy to see that. We had to keep people from opening them early, and they couldn't wait till christmas when we got to open them. Some of the guys haven't gotten mail yet so they were especially happy 2 be receiving something. These things are a big moral booster for the guys. Thank you again for keeping us in your prayers. We'll take care of Ehrlich for u 2. He's from my home state NJ so us few northeners take care of each other. I'll tell some of the other guys 2 send thanx also. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Mrs Ehrlich, I wanted to take a moment to say thank you for all of your support for the platoon during this deployment. You are a model of the type of support we need from our families back home. I am always telling Dan how lucky he is to have a mother like you. Again, thank you very much.

Dear Mrs. Sara thank you so much for all the care packages you have sent me and the platoon. They are appreciated more than you will ever know. Sorry it took so long to write you a thank you letter but, Im just not that good at it and, as you can see spelling and grammar is not a requirement to join the army.I think you are doing a wonderful job sending out all those packages its people like you that keep us going out here If you could only see the joy on our faces when we are told we got a package from home it makes our whole day. You do more for our platoon and keeping morale up then any one else and even if they haven't wrote you yet, "Ehrlich's mom" has been the topic of many platoon talks and we all thank you so much for all that you do.

Ms. Ehrlich, I would like to take thing moment and say thank you to everyone within your great organization for the support you have provide us during OIF II. It has been an honor knowning that there are people in this world who really cares about soldiers and what they bring to this great nation. So on behalf of the 1st Cavalry Division, again I say thank you and all that your organization have done. During my routation I spoke with you reference sending a Plaque. This is my way of saying thanks for years to come. So I ask that you please send me your address so I may get it in the mail immediately. Once again I say thank you.

Sara, I got your package today with the stockings from the Brownie Troop and thank you so much. I think what I am going to do is fill them up some more with things I have received from Soldiers angels and hang them on the soldiers doors we have, because the number you sent matches the number of rooms our soldiers have, so I will wait until Christmas Eve and hang them up like I am Santa. I think that will be pretty cool. Well, thank you again and as always, you soldiers angels are just plain awesome. Take care and God Bless.

Hi Sara, I just got your package today with the books, magazines and other goods. Thanks so much it felt really good to get a package. I enjoyed reading all the magazines and so did all my fellow soldiers, they said it was a taste of the real world. I enjoyed the purse with all the goods inside. I told everyone I would be taking it to work from now on. Thanks so much for the package it really means alot to me. It has been really hard being away from home and my family but knowing that there are people out there who appreciate what we do over here helps me out so much.

Dear Sara ~Thank you so much for the box of books, DVD's and MUSIC...wow.....I can't thank you enough! I don't know what to say....I have received about 5 letters and three boxes of goodies from Soldiers Angels and I just am overwhelmed...I don't know what I have done to deserve such wonderful treatment from people I don't know....I always knew there were good people all over America and I'm lucky to have met 5 of them now....thanks....I don't know if you can imagine how I feel...thank you from the bottom of my heart.Thank you for your letter. This is the first deployment where I've been the popular one. I don't know what I did but I sure am getting a lot of mail from Soldier's Angels. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And thank you for being an Angel.

I just wanted to say thank you for the Twix. the other guys want to thank you to for the goodies. they really enjoyed the magazines. it help see what going on back home. as much as I don't want to I shared the Twix also. the price of being a leader I tell ya. again thank you.

Hello Sara,Thank you so much for the card and the package. You do not know how much this means to me. It just so happens that myself and another soldier in my same company received simuliar boxes today. I asked if his was from you because they looked so much alike. I really appreciate your support.

Hi Sara, I just want to say you for all that you are doing. We truly appreciate every bit of it, whether it be magazines or books for us to read in our spare time, letters showing signs that there are more caring people out there more than we can imagine.

hey sara...

im a soldier deployed and i just got a box from u with many magazines and books and cards and even some snacks...wow!!!...i work with a lot of poeople and im sure they enjoy everything you've sent...we're all about sharing the goodies...lol...im sure we can all use a little readin...thanx... .. it sounds like you give a lot of your free time to helping others...everyone around you must be blessed to be around a true angel...thanx again...hope to hear from u soon....

Sara thank you for your prayers and the support that the angel's group is giving us. If it wasn't for you guys I don't think we can really make it. Honestly, it makes such a difference to know that someone back home is waiting for you and love you and pray for you everyday. Can you thank everyone for all the support is so nice to know that there are so many that are with us and feel proud of what we doing. After all this sacrifice and suffering we go through sometimes you think on those people out there that love us and offer us so much support and caring without even know us and I can only wish I can repay them back and realize this is so much worth it for all of you guys. I'm sending a big hug for everyone and especially for you. Sara, thank you for the boxes, the letters, the cards. Thank you from the bottom of my heart

hello sara, thank you for your letter and for the future package i will receive. i dont get many packages so anything helps.lol i like the worry stone you sent i am keeping it in my pocket.... and will use it often ha ha. you asked me to e-mail you if there is anything else i needed and there is a couple things i can always use. tuna in water, chicken in the bag or can, and granola bars, the chow here is terrible, anything you can send will be happily used and all thinks will go out to you....thank you again for your support and for taking the time to care. respectfully, james

Hi Sara, Just wanted you to know that your box arrived here today and I along with the soldiers greatly appreciate all the magazines and personal items and snacks. I'll be coming home in a few more months and looking forward the change of scenery too!

Sara, Thanks for all the great stuff in the Care Package you all had a part in and the kind notes/e-mails you send…the troops swarmed around the box like it was Xmas in the desert…Your notes get hung in our main building and read by folks every day…I always see a smile on their faces…We are fortunate to have kind hearts like yours to take care and think of us over here…It will reach about 110 degrees today and clear beautiful sunshine…we had some dust storms last few days…what a mess they make…the bad guy’s still harass us, but my troops are surviving very well so far…we miss the friends and family of course and appreciate each of you for extending your friendship around the world to us….Thanks for the Great Support…

Good morning (evening) to you Sara, I hope that all is well and that this e-mail finds you well. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for caring so much to as to send me a very nice care package. It is always a special treat to hear your name called during mail call (even though I do not know the sender! :-) and it contained everything that I wanted and more. It seems as though you are very active and take great pride in being a Soldiers'Angels, believe me you your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. Well once again Sara thank you so much for your the care package, it truly means alot to me and I'm sure for all the other soldiers that you adopt. Please continue the great work. Take care and God bless,

Sara, Hi, Thanks again for the package. Anything we get in the mail is appreciated. I would say again that your box was probably one of the best, at least in my opinion. I have had a more than adequate response by Soldier's Angels. We are good here as far as personal care items. We have a pretty well stocked PX. I find though that just getting a package or a letter from the states makes quite a difference. I also personally find any reading material that reminds of home and keeps your mind off of things over here is welcome. I, lol, particularly find magazines like people to be the best way to escape the news and everyday stuff we deal with here day to day. Also magazines on cars and motorcycles go over well, HUMVEEs just aren't as good as our vehicles back home. Unfortunately, it looks as though we will be here over the holidays. We are looking at returning in January. Thanks for the support. It means probably more than you know. And, if you email much you can feel free to write whenever you like.

Sara, I just wanted to drop a little note and thank you for all of your support. The books, movies, snack and magazines were snatched up by several soldiers and marines. Soldiers and Angels is such a great program. My assigned angel is wonderful and I am fortunate to have a few great Americans email me on a regular basis. I only wish that I could share more of what we do here. However for security reasons I can’t relate much. What I can say is the month of October and December are big months for us in Iraq. The Iraqi elections are so important to the country and to our soldiers. When they go well we will hopefully be one more step to making an independent and productive country. Try to ignore the news I expect the bad guys to get more active to try to stop things. They won’t succeed but bad news gets people distracted from the real prize. Thank you for all you do! The Soldiers, Marines, Airman and Sailors that work on this little base appreciate everything you guys do for us. Thank you for your support!

Dear Mrs. EhrlichI just received your package of books and magazines and I wanted to say Thank You for taking the time to send some stuff to me and my men here in Afghanistan. A couple of the books have already been picked up (Iacocca, American Caesaer) and the magazines are being thumbed through as well. Winter is coming and I am sure that we will have some time on our hands here so the reading material is much appreciated. Anyway, thank you for your thoughtfulness and thank you for your son and his service to our country. The 82nd Airborne is "America’s Guard of Honor" and anybody with the 82nd Airborne is always top notch in my book

Hello Sara, I just got your box today and as you can see I just time to check my mail. I hope you get the thank you note I mailed soon. But thanks for the books and mags. I enjoy reading mags when I have down time. I did pass out some of the books they go like hot cakes. It gives the soldiers something to read when they have time. I do have some names of soldiers that don't get mail I will put that in a different email okay. The weather has cooled down just getting over a little cold. I just want to say thansk again for your support.

Sara, I just wanted to drop a little note and thank you for all of your support. The books, movies, snack and magazines were snatched up by several soldiers and marines. Soldiers and Angels is such a great program. My assigned angel is wonderful and I am fortunate to have a few great Americans email me on a regular basis. I only wish that I could share more of what we do here. However for security reasons I can’t relate much. What I can say is the month of October and December are big months for us in Iraq. The Iraqi elections are so important to the country and to our soldiers. When they go well we will hopefully be one more step to making an independent and productive country. Thank you for all you do! The Soldiers, Marines, Airman and Sailors that work on this little base appreciate everything you guys do for us. Thank you for your support!

I really liked the Christmas gifts, they are things I can use at home too. Thank you for all the support you have given me. I wish there was something that I could do for you. But I can make this promise; I will sponsor a soldier and try to be as good an angel as you were to me. Thank you again,

Sara, Happy Holidays. I just want to take this opportunity to say thank you so very much for all that you do for me and other US soldiers. It means so much to me that a complete stranger would to so much for soldiers. Also I want to tell you how much my buddies and I enjoyed the gifts from Project Santa. Thanks for submitting my name. Hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. God Bless

Sara, Hello. I am just writing quick to let you know that I am back in the US. I am very excited to be home! Thanks so much for your support. You really made life a little more bearable while I was far from home. -Thank you

Hello Sara! I just got a card from you and it made so happy. I am thankful for the support that you're giving me. I felt so loved when they told me that I had a box. I appreciate the support. .... You can write me at this e-mail address if you want too. Well this is a short e-mail cause duty calls. I will be more than happy to hear from you again. Your support helps me go through this easier. I also gave some of the letters to a few soldiers..

Sara, Your box arrived, OMG it was packed! Thank you so much! I set it out for our soldiers and you’ll be happy to note it’s almost gone already, the books were gobbled up not to mention the goodies! We were especially touched by the school that sent along their Halloween candy, that was an especially touching gift. I can tell you that my own daughters could take some lessons from them. I’m in Balad, Iraq and am overwhelmed with the support we’re getting from people like you. Please tell your letter writing team how much we appreciate your good wishes and thank you for all your kind thoughts.

hey there! i will tell you know....i am toooooo lazy to type correctly. so yeah...on the last tow things you have sent....that pocket angel...THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH! i share it with my buddy. he is off the FOB EVERY day. where as i am only sometimes. he is special to me so we share it.:-) you dont even know how much that meant to me that you sent that. thank you so much sara. i just received your package with the books and magazines today. we have a magazine and book library we are starting up so as we read the magazines in here where i work we will donate them on. same with the books.:-) i put the magnets up on the frigde so people who need them can grab one. i am sharing the light key chains and paperclip holders. the big bottle of lotions is on my desk fro all to use. it is SOOO dry here....adn SOOOO cold! we have ice everywhere. now....as for the pajama pants...OH YEAH! those are SOOO all mine! i will be sleeping in them tonight.:-D THANK YOU SOOO MUCH! the coffe mug is so handy too. soooo cold here!! so we drink alot of hot stuff.:-) tell the kids thank you soooo much for that candy! i will try to write with that wonderful stationary you sent to them and to you tomorrow. :-) that is goin got come in HANDY! i needed some.:-) you always send the best stuff! thank you sara for your support. that pocket angel...well...im not quick to get emotional. but that truly touched me. :-) it was the most amazing gift i have got while i have been here. you odnt know what it means to me to have someone i dont know care so much for me. youre truly my angel.:-D as for me...i am doing well. very tired. working LONG days and eveyr day right now. how was your christmas? i had to work but that was ok. i got to go to christmas chow with all my buddies which was alot of fun. we had a secret santa exchange btwn females in my unit. so we had a little get together as well. there arent many females in my unit. but it was still fun. it was kind of just another day but at the same time it was christmas...in a different sort of way.:-p things are going ok here. i stay VERY busy so times passes by quickly. its good i guess. i will be goin ghom eon r+r in february. end of it. looking forward to that. i will try to find a pic to send via email to you. dont have one with me today. i hope all is well for you and look forward to hearing from you. thank you again sara. you are MY hero...and angel. *hugs* thank you....and god bless you. respectfully ...

Dear Sara, Since I work in the chow hall, I get to see soo many people everyday. The last bunch of magazines you sent, when I was done reading, I put them out at the chow hall at the desk in front of the exit and they went so quick. The soldiers here were so excited to having something to read from back home. We have 2 shopettes here that sell magazines

but they go so fast because they only get so many every month. Any of the books that I dont read, we have a mini library, we are actually trying to build up, I brought them there so others can have more variety. Thank you Sara for everything you do. Your support is greatly appreciated. Personal care items are definitely needed out here. If I dont use them, somebody will. We have a box at my company that we place items in that we wont use and other soldiers can check the box and take the items they need. Thank you over and over. Your support means so much to us.

Hi Sara, I got the package, and everything was greatly appreciated. The soldiers attacked the assorted magnets and such. I couldn't even tell you what all was there, because they claim it so fast. It is all good though, I love to see them excited about something, it is nice to see them get something to smile about every once in a while.

Good morning (evening) to you Sara,I hope that all is well and that this e-mail finds you well. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for caring so much to as to send me a very nice care package. It is always a special treat to hear your name called during mail call (even though I do not know the sender! :-) and it contained everything that I wanted and more. It seems as though you are very active and take great pride in being a Soldiers'Angels, believe me you your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed.

Hello, I arrived to Iraq recently and was talking to a fellow Sgt who is leaving soon. He gave me your address and told me how great you all were to him.. I just wanted to send an email. It touched me to know there are still people who remember us out there and how it is here.. I appreciate all your support.

I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MY PACKAGE. I RALLY ENJOYED IT. THAT WAS SO THOUGHTFUL! YOU HAVE REALLY BEEN SWEET TO ME SINCE I'VE BEEN DEPLOYED AND YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH EASIER YOU'VE MADE MY DEPLOYMENT AND I THANK YOU VERY MUCH. I WILL TALK TO YOU SOON!

Hello Sara, I hope all is well and that this e-mail receives you well. I want to first begin by saying thank you so very much for everything that you do for me and all the other deployed soldiers. The care packages that you send are always so very nice and they also just make my day. My heart truly jumps for joy when I receive packages especially when they are from you. All is well over here just marking the days off of my calendar as to when I can go home for good. The rumor around here is that we might be able to go home 2 months earlier than expected, which obviously is great news! I go home on leave in 70 days (but I’m not counting \\n>J) Things on my side of the world have been extremely hectic, and that is the reason why I have not been able to write you as often as I would like. Some days I barely have time to myself, and usually all I want to do is sleep. Well thanks again for all that you do, you are definitely making a difference.
Take care and God Bless,

Hi Sara, Yes i have been getting alot of letters from soldiers angels, i give some to the guys b/c they dont get as much mail as me so i try and keep their spirits up, i got alot of stockings a week ago, passed them all out, alot of the guys called me santa for a few days, it was cool. Not sure who my designated angle is but its ok, i get alot of love from everyone, had a few letters from very close to home, so thats really cool too. but i have to go get my truck ready for another security run, hope you enjoyed the holidays and everything is safe and sound at home for you.

Hi Sara, Its been really crazy here the last few days. We have been getting attacked alot. Thats why I havent been going on the internet. I much rather not take the chance of walking to the internet then getting hit by a mortar. Hopefully today wont be so bad. talk to you later. Your friend,

SARA, Thanks so much for caring and sending your sincere love here to Iraq. I love the worry stone/guardian angel, it is presently in my pocket and I will not be caught dead over here without it in my possession. That really touched my heart.

Sara: Thanks so much. Folks like you are what makes our country great.May God continue to watch over you and bless you in all that you do. Take care,

THANKS SOOOO MUCH SARA, I LOVE WHAT YOU SENT ME... THANKS FOR THE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER AND THE COCOA BUTTER. THANKS FOR THE MAGAZINES AND BOOKS. I SHARED A LOT OF THE STUFF WITH MY SOLDIERS BUT SOME STUFF I KEPT FOR MYSELF LIKE THE COFFEE MUG, THE PLUMERIA LOTION AND BODY WASH KIT, SOAP DISH AND TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER, THAT WAS RIGHT ON TIME, I NEEDED ONE OF THOSE. THE GOODIES AND THE CHOCOLATE. I LOVE VALENTINE'S DAY GOODIES, THEY ARE SOOO CUTE, PACKED WITH SOOO MUCH LOVE... I LEFT THE MUG ON MY DESK SO I WILL DRINK MY MOCHOA, HOT CHOCOLATE AND COFFEE IN THAT CUP IN THE MORNINGS. MY SOLDIERS WAS SOOO HAPPY ABOUT THE MAGAZINES AND BOOKS... THANK YOU SOOO MUCH... I HAVE 16 SOLDIERS TO INCLUDE MYSELF AND MY PLATOON SERGEANT... WE ARE A GREAT BUNCH OF SOLDIERS, I WILL SEND A PICTURE A LIL LATER.

Hi Sara, Just a short email to let you know I recieved your package and to also say thanks. Everyone found a use for something and they were greatly appreciative. Things here are going fine. A few more months left is what they are saying then its back to California. After that its back to NJ for a couple of weeks. It should be nice weather by then so thats a plus. Well hope everything is good for you. Once again thanks for sending a package. I will talk to you again.....

Just a quick note to thank you and your team for all you do. I’ve been overwhelmed with generosity from people like Sara Ehrlich and Joan and your letter writing team. I had 8 boxes stuffed with coffee arrive the other day and I delivered them to the Balad hospital to use as they please. I’ve had a wonderful relationship with Sara who has gone out of her way to support the troops here in Balad and throughout the theater. I’ve given her names and groups across the country and gotten wonderful responses from people surprised and overwhelmed with your team’s generosity. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that there’s Americans like you who take the time to just say hello and spread a little warmth and humanity for our soldiers in the field. Thank you

I just wanted to let you know that your package was received! Thank you for all that was enclosed! Everything was perfect. I cannot begin to express the feelings the Soldiers and I experience when we get mail! The letters are great and all the items in the box have gone to good use. The Soldiers and I appreciate all of your support and the support of the entire program. We know we are here for a purpose, but it helps so much more seeing we are not forgotten. So, to me you truly are an angel and I thank you for all your support and understanding.

Sara, I received the care package from you today. Thanks so much. I am amazed at all the trouble you go to and the effort you put into the email, cards & letters and care packages. You are an awesome woman! I want you to know that you make life here so much better for us. Oh and Happy (late) Valentines day! P.S. I am getting newspapers from all over the country. New York, Arizona, Texas and my favorite…California.

Hi again Sara, You have been more than giving since i have been deployed, and from me and all my guys Thank you, we spent alot of time on the roads of Iraq doing security and recovery missions and combat assaults, everything you sent other the past two months kept us up and aware, all the snacks and magazines were never taken for granted.

Sara Ehrlich of Berkeley Heights, A Soldiers' Angel