SSOT Thank You Notes from Troops

Jersey Bragging Rites!

2010-08-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2010

I just wanted to thank you and your staff at SSOT. It is amazing to see what incredible support there is for the troops and the lengths that people will go to let us know that what we do is appreciated back home. As a pilot, I have flown all over most of this country. I can say without a doubt that the northeast, especially the tri-state area, is by far and away the best at showing support for the troops. As a Jersey native, this gives me something to brag about to all my other squadron mates. Thanks again to you and your staff.

Very Respectfully,
LT Dan Falkner
USN

"They were pumped!"

2010-07-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

Wed. April 14, 2010

Hey, Sorry about taking so long to get back to you! Thanks for the cookies! My roommate passed them out to his API class (Aviation Preflight Indoc--academics and ground school before we start actually flying) and they were pumped!

Thanks again!! Please let me know if I can do anything for you guys.

Matt Petersen

Girl Scout Cookies = America!

2010-05-24T10:24:00.000-07:00

Fri., May 14, 2010

Wanted to thank SSOT along with The Girl Scouts of Morristown. I received 4 big boxes, each containing approximately 45 boxes of GS cookies from all of you and they were the hit of our base. I shared them amongst the Provincial Reconstruction Team I'm on as well as the hundreds of soldiers from the other units on our base, and had the Combat Stress counselors bring them out on their visits with other bases in our area.

Girl Scout cookies are up there with Mom's apple pie when you think of things that are American so we greatly appreciated the snacks and the little taste of home.

Thanks again, God Bless America.
LTC Mike Simonelli

They had a feast!

2010-04-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

April 19, 2010

Hello! Just wanted to send a quick note to thank you for the delicious cookies you sent! We received a box and took it out on missions to share with some of the soldiers at the outer posts. They had a feast!

Well thank you again for your kindness and most of all your support.

Sincerely,
MAJ Nayda Protzman
(Serves with a Troop who received GS Cookies)

"Where is this all coming from?"

2010-04-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

Thur., April 8, 2010

Dear Summit Supports Our Troops,

I want to write and thank you for your generous care packages that you have sent me throughout the past months. It always warms me to know that people back in Summit care so much to put this all together and make things like this possible. When I get a package, the fellow Marines ask "where is this all coming from" and I tell them "my town sends me all this" and to that response they are always amazed. It truly is nice to know that people back home care about us service members, because often times while living in a military town, we tend to become a bit isolated from the rest of the world and in turn sometimes forget why we signed up to serve in the first place. Your generosity reminds me that Summit truly is a special place and while I write this I have become nostalgic of the place I grew up for 18 years.

Words do little justice to how I feel about Summit Supports Our Troops.
Thank you very much,

Jamie Waller
(Marine)

TON of Girl Scout Cookies!

2010-04-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

Monday, April 5, 2010

I just wanted to let you know we got a TON of girl scout cookies which have been issued out to all the guys in the company. We also received the printer and the remainder of the headlamps which were a huge hit with the guys. The guys loved them. Thank you so much for all the hard work that you and your team do. It is truly appreciated at this end.

2LT W. Todd Ward

Extend sincere gratitude

2010-04-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

3/14/2010 - I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to you ma'am and the entire organization of SSOT for the items you sent and for your prayers. I really appreciate it.

Sent to us from a Troop in the unit of SGT Alan White

First and foremost, Hilltopper

2010-03-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

Jan. 22, 2010
To: SSOT

On behalf of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines, I would like to send my sincere and heartfelt thanks for the support your organization continues to provide to the past and present service members from Summit, NJ. Our lives are enriched knowing that someone cares about us, our safe return, and understands the sacrifices we endure while serving our country. You have enhanced our moral as we continue to meet our purpose in the Global War on Terrorism. There are many days when Summit's military members are called upon to accomplish tasks that place them in harms way. Knowing that the residents of Summit, through your organization, can express their love and show their support helps us in ways that words cannot describe. I am truly proud to call Summit my hometown and am touched by the out pour of love shown to me whenever I return from overseas. What makes us the greatest nation on earth isn't our military, it's towns like Summit; it's our nation as a whole, and I feel places like Summit are worth defending. I appreciate the support from great Americans such as the residents of Summit.

Wherever the Army takes me in the world, whatever job I am doing, I will always be, first and foremost, Hilltopper.

SSGT Tyrone Holmes

SSOT provides some "light", literally!

2010-03-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Sun., Jan. 17, 2010

Hey Chris,
I just wanted to let you know that we received 53 headlamps on the last resupply mission. They are greatly appreciated and I have pushed them out to the platoons. They are needed and are being put to use immediately. They are used on missions so guys have a light and can use both hands or keep their hands on their weapons. They are also used for simple things like fixing and prepping trucks for night missions. They even make it into the pitch black porta-potties which don't have any lights and come in handy. They are a huge hit all around, and when I say thank you to you and the SSOT team, it is from all the guys.

Again, we truly do appreciate everything you have sent. The Iraqi children especially loved the candy. So much so that they would hassle us at the beginning of patrols because they could see the bulges in our cargo pockets. "Mister, mister choc-o-lat-eee" is now a common phrase from the children in the neighborhoods we work in! We are heavily armed and camouflaged with Willy Wonkas, winning hearts and minds with gob-stoppers!

All the best,
2LT W. Todd Ward

Your efforts fill a void

2010-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

January 12, 2010
Dear Summit Supports Our Troops,

I am an officer in Charlie Company, 2-14 Infantry with a Summit native, Todd Ward. We are good friends and co-workers. We have received countless care packages from your organization, and I would just like to say thank you for your time, effort, and undying support on behalf of my soldiers. When we get care packages, it is usually the happiest part of the week (or month). As a leader, nothing feels better than watching our guys open these packages and letters from people who they have never even met, but still offer their patriotic support. A lot of our soldiers come from nothing and have no families. Your efforts help our guys and fill that void in their lives during a time of stress, confusion, and sometimes sorrow. We can not thank you enough for what you are doing. Thanks again.

Respectfully,
1LT Chris McLoughlin

Just in time for Christmas

2010-03-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Thur., December 24, 2009
Dear SSOT,
We recently received all of the packages that you sent. They arrived last night, just in time for Christmas! The homemade cookies were especially appreciated, as well as the always needed hygiene products. I cannot thank you enough for all the thought and hard work that was put into making all this happen. I will send some pictures of the guys with all the gear tomorrow on Christmas day during our dinner.

As of now we are preparing to move off our tiny out post and to a slightly larger base at the end of January. We can't wait to have daily showers/running water and contractor made food which is several times better than anything the Army cooks can produce. We will be turning over our small out post to the Iraqi Federal Police who we work with now. That's it from Baghdad. Thanks again for all the gifts that are going to good use here. We truly appreciate it.

Merry Christmas,
2LT W. Todd Ward

Packages are a HUGE hit!

2010-03-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sat., November 14, 2009
I just wanted to write to thank you and the rest of the SSOT team for all their support. We recently got 7 of the packages in the mail and they were a HUGE hit with the guys. Many of the guys, myself included, have gone over two weeks without getting to any type of PX/AFFES (mini-mart) to get toiletries or snacks of any kind. The guys really appreciated the cards the kids wrote as well. Some of the guys are writing the kids back letters. I attached some of the photos of my company level out post. I'll try to get photos of the guys with the gear next time. I did this during the daylight hours so besides the guys on guard, most of the other guys were sleeping after running missions all night.

Thanks again to the entire SSOT team.

2LT W. Todd Ward

Sincere thanks to SSOT

2010-03-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

April 29, 2009

I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate the generosity and support of Summit Supports Our Troops. Although I feel guilty accepting your packages given the modest nature of my contribution, it is truly inspiring to be able to call such a patriotic community home. In reviewing your website and seeing so many familiar names making great sacrifices for our county, I can't help but feel an incredible sense of pride in being from Summit. I'm sure all of our uniformed Summit natives echo my sentiments. It's organizations like yours that foster such a great tradition of service in our community. Please pass on my sincere thanks as well as those of the 46th Test Squadron to everyone at SSOT.

Respectfully,
2Lt Todd Branchflower
USAF

Thanks for caring emails, packages and letters

2010-03-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

April 13, 2009
I want to thank everyone who sent caring emails, packages and letters. It really means a lot to me and my fellow troops to have people back home thinking of us and remembering we are here. As in so many wars before us, there have been so many men and women who have not been fortunate to come home. I honor them; as everyone should, every time I wake up. There have been some life altering times here during my time, I will never forget this time I have spent in Iraq.
During the past few months, we have seen many co-workers come and go. Some will be remembered for the rest of my life. The elite men that I have had the honor to serve with and work beside spend their lives in the shadows in thankless jobs not known about by the American public. They are the men that are out where no one wants to be and doing things we could never imagine. The special operators from the United States are the nicest guys I have ever met. These guys took us in and taught us a lot, even when they were busy with their own missions.
We are starting to pack up our things and only keep mission essentials. We are again very thankful for what you all have done thus far.

Thanks again!
SGT Dustin Widas

Thin Mints - a winner!

2010-03-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

March 5, 2009

Dr. Truhe,
Great to hear from you! How have you and SSOT been doing? The boxes are great, we often have some of our Engineer guys go out for weeks at a time, and the cookies and granola bars get the job done (although you're a box veteran by now so you know this already!) And my favorite is Thin Mints, incidentally :)

Thanks for the contact.
Love,
Kwame
CPT Kwame Boateng

Taking note of number of Jersey packages

2010-03-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

March 5, 2009

Good Afternoon Ma'am. In answer to how many boxes of cookies should you send...it's hard to give a number because I can find a home for as many as you want to send. Everything SSOT has been sending has been very much appreciated by my company. We have a break area on site where we bring our care packages so everyone can enjoy them during breaks at work. We have a lot of people, so everything goes fast, but people have definitely taken note of how many packages are coming from NJ/SSOT. I have a guy here who is from Boston and he likes to rag on Jersey (I defend us well, though-haha!), but I give him a hard time every time we get a care package, asking him where the one from Boston is, haha!

I hope all is well back there.

Take care,
SSGT Eric Seaver

Blown away by care packages!

2010-03-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

March 4, 2009
This is awesome! We had a couple of boxes sent to us, which lasted all of a few seconds! There are about twenty of us at our detachment at any given time. My team has thirteen, and the secret agents we live and work with are about ten at any given time. We are very grateful for what you all have done already! There are not enough groups like you! We were just blown away by the last boxes of care packages. The generosity and thoughtfulness of the community make us all feel great to have people home that care so much!

Thank you so much once again.
SGT Dustin Widas

Making tasks easier

2010-03-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

Sunday, February 21, 2010
My name is Weston Trapp (PVT US Army), I just wanted to express my gratitude for the tine and energy you have invested in making our lives here in Iraq a little easier and more comfortable. As I'm sure you can imagine being deployed can be difficult at times and even the smallest token or well wishes from home can and do make all the difference (not to mention headlamps making tasks after dark much easier). So from myself and all the soldiers here at Charlie, thank you again!

With much appreciation,
W. Trapp
(from the unit of Summit Troop Todd Ward)

It warms our hearts...

2010-03-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

February 13, 2010
Dear Chris Truhe and all SSOT Members! We at Task Force Knighthawk would like to extend our deep gratitude for your considerate and thoughtful gifts from home. It warms our hearts to know so many of you are thinking of us while we're defending freedom. Thank you for your continued support! We truly appreciate it.

Senior Airman Dersarkissian
(from the unit of Summit Troop Matt Caputo)

To My Friends at SSOT

2010-03-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

31 Jan - Sunday
To my friends at "Summit Supports Our Troops"--Thank you for the box filled with movies and treats. And, each wrapped in ziploc bags! I can tell there was much effort put into this care package. There is a little "escape" we call The Lighthouse were we can go for coffee and relax a little. That's were I found the box. We all had so much fun looking at the old movies and selecting what we wanted. It was especially fun for us "older" folks. I chose "An American in Paris" and enjoyed it so much! Thank you for your support!

Sharon Newton
(of the Unit of Summit Troop Matt Caputo)

Getting packages with all the right stuff

2009-01-10T15:03:00.000-08:00

I got an incredible array of packages from SSOT toady. It was a funny experience to get packages with all the right things far out here, but I guess SSOT is pretty expert at this point. Will you thank Art& Sandra Williams, Jack & Dotty Mazza, and Billy Gouveia for me. As I'm sure you know, things are pretty quiet out here at this time. Iraq is cold and wet at this time of year. The big issue here is really going home as bases have closed or are closing. Some of the guys are beginning to study up on Afghanistan. I hope your son is enjoying being home for a very well deserved rest.

Marines, Iraq

Thank you from the front!

2008-12-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

My name is CPT Michael Panzera. My mother is a Summit resident & lives in the Senior Citizen Housing on Chesnut Street. Thank you so much for the packages. I received them the other day. It is worth a million dollars to us to receive packages. Why? Several reasons. Yes we do use 99% of the items sent. There are a lot of soldiers here & the PX is small, has a limited selection, is often out of items & certain items are expensive. But the main reason is the support it demonstrates to us. Many of us, especially the National Guard soldiers like myself have made great financial & personal sacrifices to be here. With the training prior to deployment, we have basically given up 1 1/2 years of our life. Being away from home in this environment, probably is equivalent to 3 years of work at home. We are here 24/7. We don't always get any time off, we work long hours, we cannot drink, we share rooms smaller than the smallest room in your homes, we face actual danger sometimes & potential danger always & the lengthy separation often kills relationships. Our loved ones often can't handle this & move on, so we often have no one to come home to. Someone even has to take care of our pets, like my mom. We are not complaining or want pity. It is what it is. Soldiers being soldiers. I am just telling you the facts. We are here for many reasons. Some for college, some for a job, etc...I & many of us are here because we love our country & wanted to help protect it after 9/11. I worked in the World Trade Center from 1978-1981 on the floor where the second plane hit Building Two, so I had to rejoin the military & gear up & come here. Again thank you for the support! When you are having an especially bad day, remember where you are & don't take what you have for granted. It is not that bad. You could be here. Enjoy life for us until we get home...Regards, CPT P

Labels: Panzera

September 24, 2004

2008-09-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Mrs. Truhe,
Thank you for your card, kind words, and for your efforts on behalf of Summit Supports Our Troops. It is great to know that my hometown is able to rally around the service members, despite differing views on the course of events that has gotten us to this point. I take pride in knowing Summit is able to show so much gratitude to people in uniform, whether they are Summit residents, sons and daughters of residents, or just folks in need of a pick-me-up and a pat on the back.
You truly went beyond yourself with the savings bond. I appreciate the thoughts and will ensure it is used to support the morale efforts on board my ship. I have been stationed on the ship for a bit over a year now and we are currently entering the fourth month of our maiden deployment. It has been quite an experience, seeing the source of the articles I used to read about in newspapers and magazines. We have been involved in a wide range of missions, from maritime security of oil platforms, to patrols of liquefied natural gas fields, to training exercises with foreign navies. Every day is a new challenge. My parents enjoyed the breakfast last weekend and I look forward to hearing how the organization grows. If you ever need anything from me, please do not hesitate to ask. Thank you again and know that SSOT has my continued gratitude.
Regards,
George Messner, LJG/USN

May 8, 2007

2007-05-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

SSOT,
Wow! You have outdone yourselves, our team received the five packages today and everyone was thrilled. We really appreciate the support especially in our situation living with the Iraqis on their base. The "urinal mints" were a great touch although it took us 30 minutes to explain to our local interpreters why we put candy in the bathroom if you can't eat it. I'm having a great time attempting to learn their language and culture, we can't make them American so our team chief told us to become Iraqi. The Iraqis we work with are extremely warm and giving. My buddy and I decided to play soccer with our Iraqi counter-parts in a "friendly game," we knew we were in trouble when they had a referee, two side judges, and about 200 Iraqi soldiers watching. Needless to say we were destroyed by the barefoot Iraqi Scout team, but it built some bridges. I hope all is well in Summit, take care and thanks again.

Greg Edgreen

May 2, 2007

2007-05-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to you in regards to the boxes of cookies you’ve sent. I wanted to thank you very much for sending them. They definitely put a smile on the Marines faces here and your graciousness is greatly appreciated. Again thank you.
Lcpl Rodgers, April Al Asad Semper Fi

April 5, 2007

2007-04-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

SSOT,I just got a very unexpected but welcome package in the mail. I went up to the CMR this afternoon during lunch to get some expected birthday cards. Today is my birthday! I noticed I had a pretty large package ready for pickup. I brought it back and opened it up and couldn't believe my eyes. I have never seen that many Girl Scout cookies in my life! I ran down the hall of my barracks and told some of the Specialists and they ran back to my room and they each grabbed a couple boxes. I took a couple boxes for myself and put the rest of the box by the CQ desk for anybody who wanted some. The soldiers of this Platoon are very grateful for the package you and the Girl Scouts have sent over. Thank you!Yours truly,PV2 Jacobs, Justin P

March 20, 2007

2007-03-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

As a hospital corpsman, my job is to take care of those who are wounded on the front lines. At times we are the first and sometimes last face they see before going back to the rear. I was deployed for 18 months with the 31st MEU and during that time we participated in many operations for Operation Enduring Freedom, to better our relations with host countries. I along with four other corpsman were able to treat over 12, 000 needy people during a 2 week deployment…That is 12,000 patients in 7 days!
The reason why I write this to you is while I was deployed I received a letter from your organization that has made me smile every time I look at it. You see it is from a young girl who said what meant the world to me and that was " Thank you for allowing me to go to school"… I am not sure why it affected me so much, but I took it to heart as I sat and watched hundreds of children who have never seen the inside of a school house, or learn to read or write, and right then I knew what she meant… That deployment was by far the best ever thanks to her!
Thank you all so much for your support, and for all you do to bring smiles to our faces.
HM1 (FMF) James Hill US Navy, Active

March 9, 2007

2007-03-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Summit-Christine Truhe, Terry Blagdon, Richard VanHorne, Sandy Lizza, Rob Siebelts and Jordan Glatt,
On behalf of the Marines out here with me, I would like to thank you for your generosity in sending so many care packages complete with the American flag! I can’t tell you how nice it is to know that we are supported in our efforts to maintain our country’s freedom!
We are in the ACE-the Air Combat Element of the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF). My job as the Wing Supply Officer is to ensure ground readiness for our Marines at Al Asad and throughout the AC (Arch of Operations). We focus a lot on anti-terrorism force protection and protecting our assets from the enemy. We have a big job and all the Marines over here are grateful for your support!
Very respectfully,Capt. Hilary A. KhanMWHS 2 Det A, Unit 78092

March 8, 2007

2007-03-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Members of Summit Supports Our Troops,
My Marines and I arrived here in Iraq shortly after several care packages from your organization arrived. It was a very nice welcome to my Marines as all but one were going through the initial shock of coming to Iraq for the first time. This is my second time here as well as two others of my twelve Marines for my section. It is quite an adjustment for them as most are very young. Even with all the briefs and training they receive, there is still the fear of the unkown.
Things like you sent make it much easier for them to feel comfortable, at ease, and appreciated. Your support and kind gestures do not go unnoticed as many Marines have their little flags and notes displayed in their work centers or living areas. It makes them really feel special and gives them a sense of purpose and pride. Again, I want to personally thank you all for taking time and dedicating your efforts to show us your support.
God bless each and everyone of you.Katrina Supresant, MSGT USMC

Febraury 13, 2007

2007-02-13T13:16:00.000-08:00

Chris -I received the flag on Friday - what a thoughtful gift. The box is one of the finest I've seen and I am overwhelmed, again, at the extent you all go to supporting us. To be honest, I feel inadequate in receiving the gifts as I don't see my work as anything spectacular - just a course in life I happened to choose - but am very grateful for all that has been and continues to be done.Your son as he goes to Baghdad will be a part of the very people you so strongly support. You must be very proud and very hesitant at the same time. I don't think anyone truly understands the concern that a mother feels for her child in such situations. I would go so far to say that it is tougher on them than the child that goes to war! Know that he is and will continue to be in my prayers and have no doubt that the Lord will take care of him.I want to thank the Boy and Girl Scout troops that raised the flag as well as the Jr High class that sent me the fantastic poster of support.Thank you again for all you and your crew are doing.Blessings,Dan Shipley

January 2007

2007-01-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Citizens of Summit, Thank you for all your kindness! The movies were an excellent idea. America needs more cities like yours. I can only imagine how great it would be. Thank you for your hardwork and dedication to our Military. People like you are what makes America so great!! Thank you and God Bless! SSG Stewart

January 10, 2007

2007-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Dr. Truhe and Summit Support Our Troops,Thank you so much for all you have done for our family. We are greatly appreciative for all of your kindness and generosity. It is such a blessing to have an organization that cares so much for our soldiers. Your support makes us proud of what we do and always makes us look forward to visiting our lovely community. They were such wonderful gifts and just showed Summit's utter appreciation and kind heart. Sincerely,Ian, Brandi, and Natalie Rush

December 2006

2006-12-22T13:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Christine (and everyone else!),
I want to thank you SO MUCH for not only the cookies but for the support that you give to ALL the troops over here. I know I speak for everybody, even those who never say it, when I tell you that we greatly appreciate everything you do for us. I'll ensure the cookies are distributed throughout our building and shared with anybody who wants some of them. Again, THANK YOU ALL!!!V/RMark P. TrepanierCW2, AGBrigade Human Resources Technician, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

December 2006

2006-12-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

Ms. Truhe, First of all, thank you for taking the time to prepare some things for the men of India Company. It is always great to receive things from back home and your continued support with the Summit Supports Our Troops organization says a lot about you as an American. It is often the case where people forget what the purpose of our mission is and you keeping it in the forefront of everyone's mind go a long way towards galvanizing our efforts. I will tell LCpl Melcon that we spoke through e-mail and let him know that his community back home supports him immensely. With regards to future packages and their contents - anything that reminds the men of back home is a good thing. We have had all kinds of Christmas decorations and goodies sent from back home, so the men are feeling as good as they can about the holiday season. Thanks again for your dedicated support and your unselfish devotion to our country. Tell everyone back home in Summit Happy Holidays from the Marines of India Company. Regards, Joe Burke

November 2006

2006-11-26T13:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Christine Truhe and Friends,I wanted to send a heartfelt thank you for all you have been doing for the military personnel from Summit. Your recent gift was completely unexpected and very thoughtful. I know this gift will be of great use to those of us currently serving overseas as any form of "getaway" is greatly appreciated. I am a 1989 graduate of SHS and have had the privilege to serve our country on two different occasions. As a Marine who flies FA-18s, I served in both Kosovo (1999) and during our initial invasion and major combat operations phases of Iraq (2003). I've seen the support for our military continue to grow incredibly strong, but never thought my home town would lead the way. Your efforts have a greater impact than one could express or imagine and I thank you sincerely for your grace and care. My fight is now in the Pentagon as I work to provide the best equipment and systems to those who are doing the real fighting. On their behalf, I can honestly say that you make a world of difference on those occasions when the burden seems too strong to bear.If I can support your efforts while stationed in the DC area, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards and Semper Fidelis,
Dan Shipley

October 17, 2006

2006-11-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

Please tell everyone thank you for their generosity, Faith and I truly appreciate it. The Troops of Summit are taken care of. Life in the military is lonely but Troops from Summit have support that can be felt no matter where in the world they get stationed.Thank you so very much for the care packages. Gestures like that made the extra hours and distance away from home worth it. We appreciate it. MWHS-2 2DMAW sincerely says thank you. Semper Fi!
Repsepctfully,
Cpl Behnke
CPL Behnke
SSET Arnold
CPL Bolden
GYS LT Voss
GY SGT Gustafson
PVT Moon
1st LT Connelly
SGT Mung
LCPL Colyer
CPL Windhorst

August 26, 2006

2006-08-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

SSOT,
I graduated Summit High School, class of 2003, and enlisted shortly after. I have always considered Summit my home, but I have never been so proud or so grateful to call it such as I have been these last few weeks. Every single package, every letter, every update makes me the envy of all on board my home away from home, the USS xx stationed in xx. Each time I explain that my hometown is the greatest and that whenever I decide to finish my time here in the military, I’ll be coming home. The letters, the care packages mean so very much when you’re so far away. … We spend x months of the year out to sea on average, and mail is very hard to come by. It usually takes about 3 weeks, and anytime you here "mail call" over the 1MC, there is a small stirring on board, a little hope and expectation. Having received so much from this organization, I feel so fortunate to be a child of Summit, and will do my best to make all of you proud. It was especially touching on that one bulletin to see both my name and that of my fiancé. Hopefully the two of us will be coming home for Christmas to thank you all in person. … I signed up for classes after working hours. In addition to those studies, I’m also currently studying for my advancement exam coming up this September. …The competition is rough, so studying is very necessary.
Thank you all again for the time, effort and care you put into every project you do. Its not just a morale boost for me, but for my shipmates as well, who send their thanks and offer up plenty of suggestions for the next few care packages.
Love,
Yajaida Pacheco, PO/USN

April 2006

2006-04-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon,
It's great to know that the people of Summit care about the troops that are sent into harms way. I can tell you this; this ship and crew aboard are one of the greatest I’ve ever served with. I’m currently serving onboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and transferring to the next super carrier the USS George H. W. Bush this summer. I am very grateful that you’ve taken the time to contact me. ETCS(SW/AW) Christopher Miles

Febraury 2006

2006-02-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

Dear Summit Supports Our Troops,I would like to thank you for your generosity and hard work to support the personnel of the Armed Forces of the United States. I am sure the programs you have put in place to support the troops will benefit them during their times in need and make the hardest times a little more bearable. It is a wonderful thing to be supported by your hometown. It helps us remember what we are fighting for.Sincerely,Jeff Kendellen, LT USN

January 2006

2006-01-30T12:54:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say thank for all the support from the class and everything that everyone has sent. I most enjoyed the letters from the class. I was hoping you could give me their address so I can send them pictures of Faith and write them back. Please send a thank you as well to the company who donated the comic books. Everything is greatly appreciated. My family and I are most grateful for all of Summit’s support.
Semper FiErica Behnke, CPL/USMC

January 2006

2006-01-25T12:55:00.000-08:00

Dear SSOT,
Thank you so much for the card and savings bond. SSOT is doing a superb job and is a huge morale booster. Happy new year!
Sincerely
Gregory Edgreen, 1LT/USA

January 23, 2006

2006-01-23T13:10:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the package, received today. Letters were cute. My young son’s classes have sent me stuff on a couple of occasions and that is always fun. Looks like we will be out at the beginning of Feb. Definitely ready to move on home. Still busy. Over 950 missions completed. Heading to over 1,000 before we leave.Take care and thanks, A. Bischoff, MAJ/USAF

January 12, 2006

2006-01-12T12:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Christine Truhe & SSOT,
I am writing you regarding your recent gift card. Thank you and SSOT for all you do for us, it is greatly appreciated. After an early morning for the Marines, consisting of zeroing weapons then a conditioning hike, they were unable to eat breakfast or lunch. Your gift card supplied pizza for the entire platoon. They were quite pleased when ten pizzas awaited their return from training. Morale was definitely boosted and they were moved that an organization such as yours “hooked them up” as we say. So, thank you very much. We love what you do and please continue the good work. Semper Fi!
Most Respectfully,
David Samuel, 2LT/USMC
PFC MN
PFC DE
PFC M
SGT JR
PFC PA
PFC JM
CPL EJ
PFC NW
PFC PG
PFC CP
PFC RM
PFC EB
CPL MN
CPL RS
HN CL
PFC MP
PFC CH
PFC ML
PFC LW
CPL RR
PFC HH
LCPL CA
SGT K
PFC M
SSGT JT
LCPL R
PFC GW

November 21, 2005

2005-11-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

Dear SSOT Board,
I just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you for the great breakfast and the wonderful company this past Saturday. It is people like all of you that keep the drive going for those young men and women serving our country both at home and abroad.
Robert Siebelts, CPT/USAF RES

November 7, 2005

2005-11-07T12:53:00.000-08:00

Hi Dr. Truhe,
Thank you very much for all the support and gifts while we were deployed overseas. It is so nice to know that people care so much about the troops overseas. Thank you again for all the packages and support while we were deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom V.
Sincerely,Ian Rush, SGT/USA

September 2, 2005

2005-09-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

I’d like to thank you and the people of Summit for taking time to support us service members during our deployment here in Iraq. We all really appreciate your efforts. As time comes closer for our departure back to the states a few of us Marines wanted to ensure you received credit where it was due. The local community has been such a help bringing comfort items and necessities to our part of the world. I am looking forward to returning to such a great and supportive community. Thanks Again.
Sincerely,
Jesse Nelson, CPL/USMC

August 29, 2005

2005-08-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

aUGUST 3, 2005

2005-08-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to put together the packages that were sent. They were more than generous. I passed out the movie boxes along with the grab bags and the Marines enjoyed them. As a squad leader I am responsible for 17 Marines and to be able to take care of them in that aspect makes my job fulfilling. So on behalf of the entire squad, thanks again. It is truly overwhelming to receive such support from the local community.
The weather is hot to say the least. It averages about 120 however we have adjusted to the climate so it’s not as bad as it sounds. The camp is improving daily. We just got a new gym as well as a new PX which is supplied with all our hygiene needs and a few luxuries. I have been in-country for over five months now with less than two to go. Moral is up looking forward to going home. It’s funny how you can ask anyone and they can tell you exactly how many days are left. It’s hard not to. Anyway, I have to get going now. Thanks again for your support and prayers. They are both greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Jesse Nelson, CPL/USMC

May 2005

2005-05-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

TO SSOT in Summit, NJ:I am sending this email on behalf of the women at our location to say thank you for the shoe boxes of women’s items that were sent. Someone in the unit received the mail boxes and put them in the female latrine so that all females had a chance to grab something from all the shoe boxes. This was a great idea because we have several small units at our location and all the boxes were spread and available to everyone not just going to one unit.
Again a big thanks for all your support. Please pass on the word to all your volunteers that we said thanks.
MSG Barbara Rubio3rd BCT, 3rd IDFOB Warhorse

May 25, 2005

2005-05-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hey Chris! So we finally got those packages and boy were we awed by the number of boxes. I cannot tell you how much the team and I appreciate what you and the town have been doing to support the troops. The DVDs were a big hit. We’re so excited about having new movies to watch. When the boxes showed up everyone on the team was like whoa somebody must really love you. It’s great to know that MY town is doing so much in support of the war effort. Quoting my team leader he stated, “Wow your town really kicks ass!” So again we here are truly grateful for what you guys are doing and I’m damn proud of my town.
Yuchen Chao, SPC/USA

May 10, 2005

2005-05-10T12:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Christine, Helena, Annie, Virginia, & Chris,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the packages that were sent. It was extremely thoughtful of you to look out for us over here. The products included will be very handy, especially the lotion with SPF. However, I can guarantee you that all the products are much appreciated by all the female soldiers who received a package. It is wonderful to know that we are being thought of. Please extend my personal thanks to all companies and personnel involved in the Summit Supports Our Troops package drive. And thanks again for your thoughtfulness.
L. SGT/ USA

Febraury 16, 2005

2005-02-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Hi I'm SSG Williams with A 1/38FA here at Camp Stanley Korea (with Greg Edgreen) and I just wanted to say thank you from my self and the whole LIGHTING MAINTENANCETEAM we appreciate your support and all you do for us.

Febrauray 15, 2005

2005-02-15T12:45:00.000-08:00

July 9, 2004

2004-07-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

Dr. Truhe,
I would like to send a message to the great Americans in Summit who are interested in supporting our soldiers... On behalf of Lieutenant Colonel S., the commander of the 3rd Brigade Troops Battalion of the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Benning, GA, we all greatly appreciate your interest in supporting our soldiers. Even for those of us who are combat veterans, or have otherwise been separated from our homes and families before, the challenges and hardships are still there. We are proud to be serving you, and just to know that your thoughts and prayers are with us and others who are serving our nation is a great motivator. Thanks again for offering your time and resources to support the Army's best Soldiers!
Sincerely,
Captain Amy Bateman, Battalion Adjutant