06/19/2009: "Appreciation From Afghanistan"

ig_AL_Plaque-2 (43k image) The plaque (held by Minnie Knych in photo) includes the words: "Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meeting any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty." -- John F. Kennedy

For several years, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 163 has administered a monthly care package program for local troops serving overseas in a war zone.

San Juan Island resident Ary Hobbel had sent an email asking for assistance for Major Crespo, a nurse serving at Forward Operating Base Salerno Hospital.

In addition to twin sized bed sheets that she requested In addition to twin sized bed sheets that she requested, she was sent band aids, anti bacterial ointments, and other medical supplies,; and added home made cookies, personal care items and snacks that she could share with some of the medical staff and patients in Salerno Hospital.

As a gesture of her gratitude for the monthly care packages sent to her, Major Crespo arranged to send the framed American flag and certificate shown in the photo above to the Legion Auxiliary in Friday Harbor. The flag was flown over Salerno Hospital in Afghanistan.

Any military service member with a connection to someone who resides on San Juan Island is eligible for the program. "The Auxiliary organizes the collection and packing of the care packages, but the entire Post 163 supports and participates in the project", says Minnie Knych the chairman of the Care Package Program.

"SAL (Sons of the American Legion) and Legion members, and even non- members, assist with the monthly collection and packing of the boxes."

There have been calls and "thank-you letters" and some of the troops come to visit at the Legion when they return. The latest "thank you" was sent by Major Catherine Crespo as she was completing her duty in Afghanistan.