Supporting Our Troops is a Mouse Click Away
Supporting Our Troops is a Mouse Click Away
February 21, 2005
Washington, D.C.-Americans take great pride in supporting our armed forces. Oklahomans in particular have a strong willingness to share our encouragement with service men and women around the world. The countless phone calls my office has received from constituents asking what they can do to help the troops demonstrates the positive connection Americans have with those protecting our freedom.
Through a nationwide program, America Supports You, citizens can learn how to communicate their support to soldiers at home and abroad. On the program's website, www.americasupportsyou.mil, individuals can send messages to the troops, find out how to best offer their assistance, read stories about what others around the country are doing, and view messages from the troops themselves.
A strong morale among the men and women of our military is crucial as they conduct their day-to-day operations. Soldiers rarely see media stories that show just how much we support their work. That's why it's important for us to let the troops know we support them and admire the work they're doing.
The America Supports You website allows individuals to share how they are supporting the troops. Whether sending care packages or simply offering thoughts and prayers, these messages can help strengthen the spirit of our soldiers.
Finding a starting point can many times be the most difficult step for those looking for ways to offer their support. America Supports You provides several suggestions on how patriotic citizens can contribute to the troops' well-being - from sending packages, to donating frequent flyer miles to hospitalized service members and their families. Through links to various organizations individuals can choose the method of support with which they're most comfortable.
Those looking to become more deeply involved in support efforts can read stories about what others around the nation are doing. For example, a 10-year-old Colorado boy led an effort that sent thousands of soccer shoes and soccer balls to troops stationed in Iraq, so they could pass them out to Iraqi children. And a California teenager sent over 1 million letters and e-mails of appreciation to service members and veterans. These are just two examples of many that illustrate the tremendous gratitude Americans have for our troops.
There may be those who question the effectiveness of these support efforts. The America Supports You website gives soldiers stationed around the world the ability to respond to the outpouring of encouragement. It's rewarding to know that every message, every letter, every package they receive boosts their morale and gives them hope.
I encourage my constituents to visit the America Supports You website. This is a great opportunity for Oklahomans to show the respect and admiration we have for all our service men and women. They need to know that we are strongly behind them. Your positive contribution to their morale is only a mouse click away.
http://www.house.gov/apps/list/speech/ok03_lucas/supporttroops.html