Blue Star Moms organize troop care packages

by Tristan Henry (thenry@wsbt.com)

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Blue Star Moms prepare packages to send to troops serving overseas. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Nov 8, 2008 at 3:14 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 8, 2008 at 5:43 PM EST

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — The holidays are always a tough time for military families. Saturday members of the Blue Star Mothers of America held a Christmas Open House in St. Joseph, Michigan to help family member send care packages to their loved ones.

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They are the faces of sons and daughters serving our country.

"It will be the first Christmas away," said Tonda Smith.

Their moms are holding down the fort at home.

"We wait and wonder and worry," said Marie Bailey.

Together they bring each other comfort and support.

"Jason was killed in action at the very beginning of the war," said Deb Meyer.

She joined the group Blue Star Moms shortly after her stepson's death. She has two other sons serving right now.

"They said they had to follow in his footsteps and finish what he started," said Meyer.

On Saturday the Blue Star Moms organized a care package center for military families.

"His favorite is his stocking so I have to stuff his stocking, because every year that's the thing the kids like is a nice gift, but I always go overboard on the stocking," said Tonda Smith.

This will be the first Christmas for the Smiths without their Dustin.
He's serving in Baghdad. But they say events like this help them get through the tough times.

"It helps knowing other people go through the same thing I do so I'm not the only person, there are so many other people out there," said Smith.

Once the box is packed and wrapped it is stamped and labeled, with the Blue Star Moms picking up the tab.

"From November 4th until this boxing today we have sent 1,057 boxes at a cost of postage of $18,000," said Bailey.

Money is received through donations and is used to help their sons and daughters enjoy the holidays away from home

"You have to support what your kids want to do," said Meyer.

If you would like to donate to the Blue Star Mothers Inc. #177 call 269-621-2715.

Donations can also be sent to:
B.S.M.
P.O. Box 76
Stevensville, MI 49127

A local chapter of the Blue Star Mothers in South Bend was chartered in June. They are looking for more members. For information, call (574) 233-6326.

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