Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to thank everyone in the Miss-Lou who played a part — no matter how big or small — in supporting Operation G.R.I.T.S. (Gifts Raised in the South) this holiday season.

The men and women of the 1086th Transportation Company of the Louisiana National Guard, comprised of soldiers from around the entire state of Louisiana with detachments from Vidalia, Bunkie and Ville Platte, were absolutely thrilled with the care packages of untiring support — more than 700 care packages! Knowing that people back home not only think of us, but actually took the time and effort to send something, means a great deal to soldiers 7,500 miles from home during the holiday season.

This project was the brainchild of Ms. Pattie Reed Morris of Vidalia, and she personally contributed countless hours and her own money to the cause. Her enthusiasm and passion for the project to help make the holidays a little merrier for our hometown soldiers was amazing. There are not enough words to express how deeply appreciative our soldiers and their families are for Pattie and her devotion to this effort and our soldiers.

In tandem with Ms. Morris, I would be remiss if I did not thank the staff of the Vidalia Post Office. They were terrific, gladly handling the entire project and sending each box on its way to Afghanistan.

The 1086th TC would also like to thank the churches, school children, businesses, individuals, civic organizations and public agencies — far too many to name individually — who helped with this massive effort. All of you who purchased items for the boxes or helped prepare them for mailing or contributed to the postage costs are truly appreciated!

On behalf of my warriors of the 1086th, thank you to everyone involved.

 

CPT Michael Stevens

1086th TC, commanding

Bagram, Afghanistan