Jan. 13, 2009 — Just imagine how receiving a personal letter from a Lassen County resident could raise the morale of an American solider deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan. That’s the idea behind the local Blue Star Moms Operation Letters from Home project.

The Soaring Eagle Blue Star Moms, the local chapter of a nationwide organization of mothers whose children are on active duty in a combat zone, will be collecting and sending cards and letters of support to our local soldiers and their units in Iraq and Afghanistan just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Residents who would like to support local soldiers are asked to drop off cards or letters at a drop zone near you. Many county businesses have agreed to help collect the letters (see sidebar). The deadline to drop off a letter is Jan. 31, 2009.

The letters should not be addressed to a particular soldier. The completed letters will be boxed up and delivered to the company commanders of local soldiers and then distributed individually to the troops.

“All we ask is that you keep your correspondence on a cheerful note,” said Blue Star Mom Christine Boyd. “You can include thanks to the soldier for their service, protection and selflessness. It is very encouraging for them to hear they are thought of and prayed for. We ask that no glitter be used on cards, but glitter pens are fine. We also ask that you do not seal your letters or cards in an envelope. Envelopes can be included, just not sealed. No postage is required.”

If you have a son or daughter in Iraq or Afghanistan and would like him or her to receive a letter from home, or for more information, contact Staff Sgt. Lyman Moak at 257-5085 or e-mail ProudMarineMother@Hotmail.com.