As we spent time this weekend celebrating the 4th of July, we hope we also had some time to reflect on the true meaning of independence. The 4th of July, unfortunately has become just an occasion for a day on the lake, a cookout, a sale at the department stores.


Our independence was won by the strength and courage of military men who stood up and said that our country will be one with freedoms for our citizens. For members of our military who are deployed, Independence Day has a real meaning. It means fighting terrorists who want to keep the population living in fear, stealing their resources, and forcing them to do the will of the terrorists.

Our troops see children who are not allowed to attend school, women who are not allowed medical care, education or an opportunity to have a career. Our troops have seen successes in the Middle East. In Iraq, they have seen a country have an opportunity to write a Constitution, establish a form of government, allow women to vote, develop schools, medical facilities, and infrastructures.

Our troops are proud of their work in training local military and security units so the countries can stand up and take charge of their own lives. To see our troops deliver supplies from caring Americans and other countries that help the local populations, swells our hearts with pride. Our troops are delivering wheelchairs for disabled children, distributing school supplies, clothing for children who may not own coats and boots to get through the freezing temperatures in the isolated mountains, toys to provide joy and happiness and providing medical care.


Our troops are facing extremely difficult living conditions while continuing the fight against terrorism. As we think about the meaning of freedom, we should support the troops for their sacrifices, dedication and bravery in protecting our world, our country, and our families. Our troops missed being with their families and friends for the celebration. Let's send them a touch, and taste of home so they know how much we care.

Please make a donation today to help us on our mission of support. We especially need items to provide items for the special projects for the children of Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries. You can donate school supplies, children's coats, boots, shoes and socks, small stuffed animals, and soccer balls.


Please also remember that we also are in urgent need of monetary donations to pay for postage. Our organization needs about $9,000 each month just to pay for postage. We welcome individuals, businesses, churches, etc to sponsor a month of postage.

As we're just getting into the summer need for our "Beat the Heat" campaign, we ask that you not forget our troops during the holidays. Our Christmas/Hanukkah holiday collection will begin in September. Watch our website for details!

Our troops and their families thank you.

I have never been on a web site that I have enjoyed so much. I will visit this web site at least 3 or 4 times ever week..This year the American Legion Auxiliary will be the Care Bears for our veterans,our members,our children and our communities.The American Legion is now known world wide as the largest women patriotic service organization, "The American Legion Auxiliary" On november 10,2009 was 90yrs old. That is how many years that our members (etc) have been at our veterans side helping in any that we can. GOD BLESS OUR VETERANS WHO ARE FIGHTING FOR OUR FREEDOM,Come home safe