Letter: Valentines to troops

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I want to send you [Malibu] an enormous, well-deserved Valentine for turning out for the packing party at the Point Dume Clubhouse two weeks ago. More than 100 volunteers showed up ready to work, and often with their arms loaded down with gifts for our heroes. They spent many productive hours assembling goodies and writing letters for our beloved troops. 

Members of the City Council and Parks and Recreation attended, and even the fire department came and helped load up the boxes. Although the volunteers were from all ages and walks of life, from a 4 year old to a World War II veteran, there was a spirit of unity and good will expressed at the event. I think you could say it was America at work. Everyone there had one purpose—to show their appreciation for our deserving soldiers. The entire community came together, and I wish to thank all the Malibu businesses, clubs, schools, and neighbors for making our efforts such a success—also for the donations from those who couldn’t attend. Together we assembled more than 2,500 beautiful packages. Most importantly (and remarkably) there was a hand-written letter of encouragement and support in each one, thanks to the hundreds and hundreds of letters written by school children, members of the community and fast “pen-pushers” at the writing tables that day. 

These reminders of home and messages of love are now winging their way to the battlefields of Afghanistan and the decks of the John Paul Jones, our adopted ship. They will mean so much to the young soldiers and sailors who will soon be receiving them. I am so proud to be a part of this community. Malibu has proven it has a great, big heart. 

Cindy Linke, coordinator 

Operation Independence