Help for the Troops II

[mike55]

Well, I thought I had taken this effort as far as I could. However, in the last few days I've received emails from prior donors stating (in essence) that I should keep it going. I've aslo received additional donations. With all the demands we have, catching up after a busy and always costly holiday season and with the emphasis on what in my view is a remarkable outpouring for Warren Hall and his family, I'm a little reluctant to revive it. But it is a worthy cause.

While my initial investment in time was more than I had bargained for, it has paid off in ways that far exceed the time invested and monies donated. I've also managed to find what I believe is the most economical and efficient way of purchasing and getting the calling cards distributed. In other words, all the leg work has been done. So, if there are others that care to and can donate, I'll continue.

As in the past, each and every donor will be sent an email confirming purchases. Donations can be sent via PayPal to troopcalls@gmail.com . Any amount is acceptable and greatly appreciated. Feel free to contact me with questions, comments, etc..

Here's the link to the original thread:

Help for the troops

Here's the list of all donors to date:

$189.60 Mike R.
$10.00 K.C.
$50.00 Richard C.
$10.00 Chuck H.
$25.00 Matthew K.
$100.00 Rob McK.
$24.00 Mark W.
$25.00 Jonathan H.
$250.00 Anonymous
$100.00 Kirk E.
$50.00 Anonymous
$25.00 Keith C.
$25.00 Rex W.
$25.00 Daniel A.
$50.00 Don T.
$50.00 Warren S.
$20.00 Mike M.
$120.00 Jeffrey H.
$50.00 Mike Z.
$50.00 James T.
$100.00 Darrell E.
$25.00 Christian G.
$50.00 Mark S.
$25.00 Hudson B.
$25.00 J. M.
$15.00 Kirk F.
$20.00 Terry C.
$10.00 Mitchell L.
$100.00 Jeffrey C.
$25.00 Chris W.
$50.00 Vernon L.
$100.00 George M.
$20.00 Stephen M.
$100.00 Thomas W.

We've raised a total of $1853 net of fees.

So far, we've purchased total of 61, 550 minute pre-paid calling cards for distribution in Iraq and Afghanistan. These, under ideal condition yield up to 2 1/2 hours total talk time. Cost = $1707

Thanks again to all that contributed. Again, let's keep all those serving overseas in our thoughts,

Mike

[Razorback1980]

You are a class act Mike...thanks for this and most of all thanks to those who give so much for our freedom. We support and appreciate you. My son did come home safely after three trips to Iraq but I know there are many still there. God Bless each and every one of you.

[mike55]

Thanks Tom and glad to hear about your son. I appreciate the compliment.......

Mike

[911Rob]

Thanks Mike!
It puts a smile on my face to think that a few good men/women will be granted a comp call home. Great effort, I hope it continues. God Bless our troops!
Cheers buddy

[john70t]

Thank you for your efforts, Mike............but..........
It seems like AT&T is taking advantage of our troops by overcharging them.
Our government also doesn't seem to have money, and/or inclination, to provide those basic communications.

After all the tax dollars thrown at the that teflon wall with the hole in it, it's really sad that the troops have to beg for lunch money.

[mike55]

Rob.....Thanks for the kind words and your support. It's appreciated!

John..... Well, that's a whole different argument for another time and place. I too wish things were different; but they're not. So, we have to do the best we can. I wish each dollar could buy more air time. At least it's the best all around deal I could find, all things considered. Besides, the way I look at it, it buys a few people extra time to chat with loved ones. And I don't mean to sound mushy; but the gesture goes along way in telling them we care. To me, this is as important as the gift itself. I've had parents tell me as much.

Would love to hear from others too.........

Mike

[mike55]

I received an email from a donor relating the following story (click on the link below). Very similar to what we've done.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/ctnews/jan08/phonehome.shtml