From the start, the guys of the 86th have had it pretty rough, building their own accommodation, Arizona-like climate with no air con', lack of basic amenities that most folks take for granted. In the face of these living-conditions, which match those of may troops in the field, they've continued to execute their primary duties including guard-duty and permiter patrol with a cheerful attitude that would leave most feeling ashamed. To obtain basic necessities involves helicopter rides, which are carefully limited for a variety of reasons.
A recent donation drive has seen the arrival of a number of basic consumer items such as toiletries and what might be considered luxuries, such as candy, cookies etc. Copied below is a report including part of a message that the Buckeye Valley News received from Sarah, outlining the impact made by the goods that were generously donated by residents of Buckeye and the surrounding area:- Last week, Buckeye Valley News reported on the arrival of care packages at the base occupied by the 86th Expeditionary Signal Battalion. Copied below are excerpts from a letter we received from Sarah Fumicello who runs the support network for the 86th:
“The spirits of "our" soldiers was a little down. The packages of all of the donated items certainly perked them up. I know that my son personally was very surprised and even a little shocked at all of the items that people donated. He has told me that he is very surprised that many people donated that many items JUST FOR THEM. It makes them feel pretty special...At this point they have only received HALF of the items shipped!!! I can only imagine what it will be like when they get the rest.” Sarah continues, with regard to living conditions: -
“At this point they are very pleased to announce that they FINALLY have a microwave. That only took 5 months!!! The weather over there is similar to ours so it has finally cooled off and is chilly at night. They are still in the "shacks" but they are steadily getting the base up to par, I guess. From a mom standpoint, there is still lots to do. My son hurt his arm 2 weeks ago - my hope is that they at least get a medical facility soon as it has been too busy to send a helicopter to fly him to another base for something that is not life threatening. With recent helicopters having been shot down ( in Nov) they have limited the flights.
“Their response to the arrival of all of the packages: to wrap it all up, they are shocked, a little overwhelmed, pleasantly surprised and ‘opening those boxes really does feel like Christmas, you just never know what will be in the next one!” Sarah concludes: “When I started this drive I anticipated a few donations, but did not have high hopes as I know that people are struggling with the economy and with the holidays coming money is tight on everyone. I also knew that I was asking for donations from people that also had the food banks and the Angel tree program needing assistance too. I knew that if people could only donate to one, these guys would probably not get too much. I could of never of anticipated the support I have seen. I cannot wait to send you details and pictures of their homecoming. Believe me, there will be an abundance of pictures and details as I will be overjoyed to report when they come home.”
Want to support the 86th? Call Buckeye Elks Lodge on 623.386.4710 or email bel2686@qwestoffice.net.
For other Army units, the Air force, Navy or Marines, try: www.uso.org for the USO, or alternatively http://www.anysoldier.com/ to choose any military unit and send donations, care packages or even just a letter.
Still on duty. Remember the people in uniform who help make it possible to celebrate New Year's.
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