Past and current military personnel are given attention on holidays like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, but what about the other 363 days of the year?
On Saturday, November 12, 2016, the troops will be recognized at the care packaging event Salute to Service. The event is co-hosted by the Military and Veterans Club (MVC) and Sigma Beta Tau fraternity. The care packages will be created in the Miron Student Center (MSC) Greek Lounge from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The finished care packages will be distributed to those currently serving at various locations around the world.
“It is very important for overseas armed forces members to receive care packages anytime,” stated Kimmarah Casey, junior criminal justice major and President of MVC. “It allows the members to ‘have a piece of home’ with them at all times, while simultaneously giving them hope of returning home soon.”
MVC learned about this event from Nigel Donald, an Admissions Counselor for Kean University and was asked to speak during the event.
“[Donald] then asked me if I wanted to help in an event that [Sigma Beta Tau] will be hosting in November that will be benefiting the troops,” Casey stated. “I quickly accepted his invitation and offered him any help that he requested.”
Since the care packages will be going to troops stationed in diverse living conditions, Casey and the rest of MVC and Sigma Beta Tau compiled a list of items, which was provided by the USO (United Service Organization) of New York.
“This list was compiled as a result of a survey from veterans that have served in various parts of the world,” Casey said. “Depending on where a military member is deployed to, they require or desire completely different items.”
A portion of the list consisted of:
- Flush-able baby wipes
- Chips, crackers, candy and gum
- Caffeine and energy drinks and Gatorade products
- Energy bars and fiber powder
- Socks and underwear
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Toilet paper and detergent
- Lip balm, hand sanitize and foot powder
- Shampoo, soap and deodorant
Those interested in helping out with Salute to Service are not required to bring some of the indicated items, but are encouraged to if they wish. Donated care package supplies can be dropped off at ___.
“[Supplies] will be shipped through the USO to ensure that they get to members worldwide,” Casey said. The USO is a nonprofit organization that arranges various services, programs and entertainment to those serving and their families.
The goal for Salute to Service is to make at least 50 to 70 care packages, but Casey is confident that volunteers can surpass that amount.
“I would like to add that I am incredibly satisfied with the efforts made by the Kean community in helping the members of this nation who have served, and continue to serve,” Casey said.
It is difficult, and maybe near impossible, to reciprocate what armed forces personnel have given Americans, but MVC and Sigma Beta Tau are encouraging the Kean community to join them in the attempt to give back.
