When I started sending care packages in 2002, I never imagined I'd be managing a national non-profit organization.  I didn't know the strength and love I'd find with Give2TheTroops.  I just wanted to show our military that America cares about them. I consider it my duty and an honor to do what I do for our military. My approach has always been a "Pollyanna" one, focusing on the positive and the GOOD.

On the other hand, my duty and honor of being the President of this wonderful organization also has a role which is not so fun or exciting ...

Deployed troops often write me about their feelings, anxieties and sad events, including injuries or loss of comrades.  These troops need to vent, but do not want their mothers, fathers, spouses and other family members to worry about them.  I guess they feel comfortable telling me how they feel because I understand the hardships of deployment.

So I listen and offer positive support via email, phone calls and care packages to these troops who have become "family" to me.  I may never have met them in person, but I share their pain and anxiety.  I carry an unseen "burden" inside.
Nonetheless, it is an honor to carry this load.  I am glad the troops reach out to me and that I can be there for them. 

Parents, wives and girlfriends call me from all over the States and abroad, worried about their loved ones.  Sometimes these calls are from family members whose loved ones were wounded or KIA. They look to me for comfort and advice. While I am no therapist, I do my best to offer our love and prayers. It is also an honor to be there for these family members. It's the least I can do.

I give presentations and speeches pretty frequently, and I rarely can get through speaking without shedding some tears. Give2TheTroops is very personal to me. Yes, I am passionate about what we do.  Who wouldn't be?  Our troops and their families are real people, like you and me, who are going through extremely difficult times.  I guard their stories in a special place in my heart.  Sometimes, when speaking aloud about what we do, these stories re-surface, and I can't hold back my feelings and tears.  Again, it is a honor for me to talk about our wonderful troops, our volunteers and our donors.

The day after Christmas, Dec. 26th, in Putnam, Connecticut, I'll have yet another honor, to pay my respects (and the organization's respects) to someone who deserves the HIGHEST HONOR ... a Fallen Hero: Staff Sgt. Joseph E. Phaneuf (102nd INF. BN. of New Haven, Connecticut - ARNG).

SSG Phaneuf, was KIA on Dec. 15, 2006 when the armored vehicle he was driving struck a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. Prior to his deployment in Afghanistan he served in Iraq from Feb. 2004 - Feb. 2005. He was 38 years old and left behind a wife and 3 children (ages 15, 11 and 9).

For those of you in Connecticut and nearby states who wish to join me, please send me an email so we can make appropriate arrangements. It will be my honor to have you by my side.

Love,
Andi

Although I cannot be with you physically, please know that my prayers, thoughts and heart with be with you and this family during this time. I pray that the family finds strength and comfort in knowing that Americans care and appreciate the service of this soldier.

Sometimes I wonder where you find the strength to handle all the emotions. You are a wonderful person and it is a joy to work with you.

This greatest sacrifice that touches us all, made by this brave Soldier and his Family, will not ever be forgotten. Thank you, and God be with you.