Op-Ed: Thanks from the American Legion Auxiliary

Last week, American Legion Auxiliary San Anselmo Unit 179 celebrated its first birthday, and the members from all over the county would like to thank the people of Marin for their support and generosity.

During our first year, we shipped 712 care packages to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Just before Christmas last year, we sent them 130 holiday stockings. Since our Hugs from Home project was launched, we have sent 131 hugs bags, filled with personal toiletry items for the troops. Our members have made and distributed nearly 800 cooling scarves as well as dozens of hand-knitted items for the cold weather. Our new Pocket Flag Project has so far resulted in the folding and distribution of 1,200 pocket flags to members of the armed forces.

We have also supported the Veterans Administration Hospital and the Pathway Home, both in Yountville, the crew of a Coast Guard Cutter at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, the VA Hospital at Fort Miley in San Francisco, the USO at San Francisco International Airport and the veterans participating in the recent Ride 2 Recovery, which went from San Francisco to Santa Monica.

None of this would have been possible without the support of the citizens and businesses in our local communities, both in terms of cash donations and items for our care packages.  As we continue our mission of supporting our troops and our veterans, we hope that you will continue to help us say “Thank you for your service."

For information on membership or to find out more about how you can help,  visit us at www.ALAunit179.org or email info@ALAunit179.org.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Jan Darmody, President

American Legion Auxiliary

San Anselmo Unit 179