As Americans prepare to observe Veterans Day on Nov. 11, many people will want to pay tribute to those who have served the nation in the past and thank the members of the military who are serving the United States around the world today.
One small way to honor U.S. military personnel is to provide them with “a little bit of home,” according to Ken Springer, who is a representative of American Recreational Military Services (ARMS).
Spring said sending military personnel simple things most people take for granted — things many people who are serving in the armed forces cannot readily obtain — provides the troops a bit of home comfort.
According to Springer, ARMS is a nonprofit organization comprised of veterans and Blue Star mothers that honors and supports America’s troops by collecting donations and shipping supplies, snacks and necessities to military personnel overseas.
“In honor of our veterans we feel it is our obligation to send our thoughts and prayers to our men and women in uniform, letting them know they are not forgotten, and in doing so, provide them with care packages in grateful appreciation for all they do and continue to do to preserve and protect our freedom,” he said.
He said ARMS is appealing to municipalities, schools, business groups, community centers, individuals and organizations that would like to help support the troops by donating supplies, time and or financial aid.
“Our shelves are virtually bare,” Springer said. “We need everything. We have a supply of toothpaste and toothbrushes, soap, mouthwash and chocolate candy because most people think of those things first.
“But most of all, the things our troops really crave are cereal and granola bars, beef jerky, individual sized cereal boxes, popcorn, socks, hot chocolate, bug spray, powdered drink mix, hand sanitizer and snack size treats, as well as Pringles potato chips and Pop Tarts.”
He said female military personnel would also appreciate receiving personal care products.
ARMS has drop-off locations at the Howell Library, Old Tavern Road, Howell; the Freehold Township Senior Center, Jackson Mills Road, Freehold Township; the Toms River Armory, 1200 Whiteville Road, Toms River; and the Howell Senior Center, Preventorium Road, Howell.
For more information, visit the website www.supportarms.org or contact Springer at [email protected]. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to ARMS, 36 Lake Ave., Eatontown, NJ 07724.
— Clare Marie Celano