MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- For service members on deployment, simple gestures from loved ones can have a profound effect on morale. Combat Logistics Company 36 is making sure their 11 Marines deployed in Iraq get a little taste of home this holiday season.
Many station members and organizations contributed to a collection effort that will ultimately deliver a care package to each Marine. Among the items donated were phone cards, shaving cream, sunblock, toothpaste, compact discs, baked goods, magazines, movies and candy.
Spearheading the project was CLC-36 spouse and Philadelphia native Dawn M. Maniscalco, who understands the importance of the care packages after her husband’s deployment in Iraq.
“It’s important to let them (the Marines) know we’re thinking about them and that we appreciate what they do,” Maniscalco said. “Anything from home helps them feel good while they’re over there.”
Aiding in the project was Single Marine Program Coordinator and Castle Rock, Colo. native Jay Stovall, who helped contact station organizations such as Semper Fit for donations.
Stovall says he credits the outpouring of items for the packages to the fact that Marines have always taken care of their own.
“We support them, we wish them the best, and we know they’re doing good things,” said Stovall.
The donated objects were stuffed and sealed in boxes Tuesday night at CLC-36 Headquarters. Those packing all shared the common sentiment that the recipients were all part of the same Marine Corps family.
“It’s important because you never know if it’s going to be your husband, your father or your son that will be deployed over there,” said Gunnery Sgt. Sabrina M. Bryan, CLC-36 admin chief and Saginaw, Mich. native. “We want to know that they’re being taken care of.”
The Marines will always have a firm foundation of support in the CLC-36 family, which is made apparent in the letter enclosed in each care package.
“The Marines and sailors of CLC-36 are thinking of you. This package of donated items is for your enjoyment. If there is anything you need, send an email or call back to Iwakuni and we will be sure to get it right back to you. Don’t hesitate to ask. See you soon, take care!”