Editor:

     This is a special story of a young man. The Gowanda American Legion Auxiliary had been working on a project, “Supplies for Our Local Troops,” asking members of the Legion and local community to call or bring us an address of daughter, son or anyone in the military at the time in Iraq. We had responses. Donated items of toothpaste, baby wipes, gum, disposable razors, soap, shampoo and etc. was sent to the Middle East with a stipulation they would share with their unit.

     Well over 100 pounds were sent to local soldiers. A few wrote back thanking us for the donations.

     Then I received a letter from a soldier thanking us for “goodies” as well as the thoughtfulness behind them; that receiving packages, letters and cards from home increased “morale.” He went on to write, “With Christmas season approaching quickly, I would appreciate if you could send cards to my soldiers and can think of no better way to get the children involved than have them make cards for the soldiers.”

     Well that’s all it took. The wheels started turning. We had to hurry though. By the time I received the letter, it was only about a week and a half until Christmas recess. I had to get those cards and letters gathered together, packaged and sent out in hopes they would reach their destination in time.

     Who to contact first? I called around to several people - getting donations of Christmas cards. Mrs. Kirkland at St. Joseph School, who in turned contacted the teachers. Our auxiliary secretary, Connie Tessmer, contacted her daughter’s art teacher, Mr. Janicki, who in turn got his art classes involved. I even talked to my grandson Joel’s pre-k teacher, Mrs. Siragusa, to make some cards.

     Cards were left at JCPenney Catalog and Hair Etc. for customers to come in and sign, and ladies of the Legion Auxiliary passed out and collected cards at the post.

     I received a call from Mrs. Kirkland that their cards and letters were ready. Nancy Greeley brought cards and letters from Gowanda Central School.

     By the way, all of those children were very creative letter writers and card makers. This was an amazing project that so many children and the community got behind to make happen. Thank you.

     The cards and letters were boxed, all 730 of them, and sent to Lt., MS Kevin R. Schuster, Medical Platoon Leader, a graduate of St. Joseph School, a “special” young man and a hero in my book. I have been honored to fulfill his request.

     Second Lt. Schuster sent an autographed t-shirt, signed by soldiers in his unit, for the children of St. Joseph and one for Gowanda Central School. I hope they display these shirts proudly.

     All of our soldiers over there are heroes, but this story was worth sharing.

Dorothy Smith, president
Gowanda American Legion Auxiliary