Sixty U.S. troops in Afghanistan can expect care packages from local veterans for Christmas.
“This is the most patriotic area,” said Veteran Ken Campbell. “We want to thank everybody in Fannin County for their patriotism.”
He said that people of every age group were coming to their tent to donate Saturday, December 7.
Thanks to those who did, $1,200 was raised to buy and ship snacks to troops who cannot make it home to their families.
Six large boxes were filled with goodies like Vienna Sausages, Little Debbie’s, Pringles, Slim Jim’s, tea bags and even a stuffed toy for the K-9.
Veteran Center Museum Curator Trevor McIntyre said the boxes had a combined weight of 125 pounds and should reach the troops by Christmas Eve.
Campbell said the company asked specifically for junk food and not to worry about things like toiletries.
The goods are being sent to a group of combat engineers, and, with money still left over, the veterans would like to make packages for other troops that cannot make it home for the holidays.
Additionally, any funds that are left over from this season will be used for next year’s care packages.
In addition to making the packages, the group of veterans have donated to a local nursing home, boy scout troop and Fannin County High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA).