BY TARA PETERSEN
Staff Writer
MILLSTONE — Two local lodges are joining forces to help make a difference in a few soldiers’ lives.
Millstone Elks Lodge 2613 and Freehold Elks Lodge 1454 have adopted a platoon, Marine Wing Squadron Support (MWSS) 472.
According to Millstone lodge secretary Bill Dugasz, a member of the Freehold Elks Lodge has a son in the squadron.
Dugasz said the lodges are accepting donations of toiletries, snacks and other items for the soldiers, but are particularly trying to give them the gift of gab by raising money for the purchase of phone cards so that during the holidays, they can call home.
Chairman Steve Matusz “spearheaded the project,” Dugasz said.
“Nationally, the Elks [have a mission] to cater to veterans, whether they are serving now or [have] served in the past,” Dugasz said.
Patricia, who is the mother of the soldier in MWSS 472, said that since August, her son has been located just outside Fallujah and is scheduled to be there until at least March.
The soldier and his wife — who the family does not wish to name for security reasons — are expecting their first child any day.
Patricia said that MWSS 472 refuels and rearms helicopters, Harrier jets and F-18s.
Last week, her son tried to communicate with his wife back home in Freehold, but was only able to talk long enough to let her know that he was OK and also check that she hadn’t yet given birth.
“All communications are shut down right now,” Patricia said. “More than anything, they love communication from home.”
The Freehold lodge has sent several packages in the past, including one containing night-vision goggles that the Elks purchased with the help of a special fund-raiser.
The troops can use toiletries, snacks, and powdered drinks or soups, as well as compact discs or DVDs for entertainment.
Patricia said nothing ever goes to waste.
“They share everything,” she said.
The lodges also held an Italian-themed dinner fund-raiser last Friday night at the Freehold lodge that more than 100 people attended. All profits are being used to purchase items and phone cards for the soldiers.
Porky’s Wholesale Meats, of Carteret, donated the meat, and Wemrock Orchards, of Freehold Township, donated the produce for the meal.
Though Patricia called the personal experience of having a son overseas “heartbreaking,” she said that “all of them are out there — it’s not just about him.”
“People have to remember that they’re out there,” she said, “no matter where they stand [in terms of the war’s necessity].”
Anyone interested in donating to the squadron can contact the Millstone lodge at (609) 259-8911, or the Freehold lodge at (732) 431-8707.
Those wishing to send letters or holiday cards to the platoon can mail them to MWSS 472, Bulkfuel/Airfield OPS Unit 72495, FPO AE 09509-2495.