Letters Abroad
Notes from Servicemembers in Iraq
In 2004, Santa Barbaran Sally Brown
started sending care packages twice a month to a family friend who
was serving in Iraq. Word spread about what she was doing, and soon
people inquired as to how to get their loved ones on the list — and
so began the group effort, headed by Brown, called the Santa
Barbara Angels. The parcels sent to the servicemen and women are
themed (e.g., Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, Super Bowl, etc.), and
each contains a personal letter, as well as snacks, candy, socks,
DVDs, magazines, and other goodies. Although each package is mailed
to the name of the servicemember Brown has been given, it’s filled
with enough to share with the entire unit.
The following are snippets of emails sent between 2004 and 2006
to the Santa Barbara Angels, thanking them for their kindness and
telling a bit about life in Iraq.
As you have no doubt read in the news, it was a tough summer
here in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. Our soldiers, marines, sailors, and airmen
performed marvelously. They are truly making a difference here for
the people of Iraq. These young men and women continue to set the
conditions for peace and prosperity among a people with tremendous
potential. … The 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division (Ready First
Combat Team) has been extended for a short time. We will be here
through the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. The soldiers have
taken this news in stride. They fully understand how critical this
mission is. — U.S. Army Chaplain
