Angels at Work

PATTI PATTON-BADER RECEIVES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY'S CIVILIAN AWARD FOR HUMANITARIAN SERVICE

Soldiers' Angels very own Patti Patton-Bader was presented with the United States Department of the Army's Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service by Lt. Col. James Riley (Ret) on January 14, 2006 in Pasadena, California. Patti graciously accepted the award, which was signed by Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley, on behalf of every Soldiers' Angel.

"For exceptional dedication and selfless service leading to the creation of the Soldiers Angels Foundation which has immeasurable enriched the lives of countless thousands of service members and their families.

Mrs. Patton-Bader's talent and marketing skills provided them a myriad of services and unending support at this critical time in our nation's fight to end global terrorism.

Her selfless service, abundant generosity and tireless care reflect great credit on her, the American Soldier and the United States of America."

Patti, as always, we are proud to be working alongside you in support of our brave men and women. Thank you for making each and every one of us so proud to be an Angel!

AN ORAL HISTORY FROM THE MEMBERS OF SOLDIERS’ ANGELS

If you have seen the posts about the upcoming Soldiers’ Angels Book and have wondered what it is about, then keep reading! An interview with Patti Patton-Bader, founder of Soldiers’ Angels has provided us with those answers.

The format of the book is an oral history as told by inserts from members of this organization who are dedicated to the support of our troops and their families. More than just stories, the book is to be filled with photographs from the members as well. Photos of the members, their heroes, fundraisers, anything special or meaningful to the member is welcome for submission to the book. The publishing committee will review the stories and photos that are submitted and decide which will actually be placed in the book.

What should your story be about? Your story should be anything about Soldiers’ Angels that has moved your heart. It could be why you joined, experience(s) with your adopted heroes, the personal rewards you have received, anything that stands out from your union with this organization.

The appearance of the published book is to be reminiscent of the big Life Magazines, with wonderful pictures and stories that would be perfect to keep on a coffee table for all to see. It will also be a most special heirloom to pass down through the family, a record of caring Americans and a personal treasure for all members of Soldiers’ Angels.

Do not be left out! If you wish to have your story and photos considered for entry in the Soldiers’ Angels Book, you must mail your information no later than March 15th by regular mail, no emails, please. All photos must be clear and well printed. Poor quality photos such as those that are fuzzy or too dark, etc., cannot be used. The story and photos that you send will not be returned, but they will be put in the Soldiers’ Angels museum.

The book is scheduled to have the first draft of the printed version prepared by June 31st, with the actual publishing date and price of the book to be determined. Where to order or purchase the book is also to be determined and will be announced at a later date.

If you have not sent in your story and photos, then do it as soon as possible and before March 15th! Send them to:

Soldiers’ Angels
1792 E Washington Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91104

SOLDIERS’ ANGELS HELP TO BREAK WORLD RECORD

On January 8, Soldiers’ Angels (in collaboration with Library of Life, an organization that offers the public a way to celebrate life and share memories online) announced a Guinness Book of Records attempt, called Operation: Love Our Troops. The aim was to create the largest digital Valentine’s Day card ever and send the messages to our deployed military. The original goal was a modest 5,000 posted messages of love and support. Thanks to The Bohle Company, a top public relations company based in Los Angeles retained by the Library of Life to promote the campaign, word quickly spread of this initiative—and our original goal was passed many times over. By the end of January alone, http://www.operativeloveourtroops.org/ had received over 7,000 messages from grateful Americans—and those all over the world. By Valentine’s Day, the goal had easily been surpassed—and, as of press time, this site was still accepting new messages of support for our troops. (The latest count was almost 21,000.) Way to go, Angels!

MONETARY DONATIONS NEEDED

Patti recently shared some of the many requests pouring in from our brave heroes. As you can see, it takes a LOT of money to be able to help supply them with everything they need. Here are just a few examples:

- Pillows: $605 (for the pillows plus shipping).
- High Power Scope: two of five marksmen in group were not issued scopes. Cost: $1,249.50 plus shipping.
- Underarmor T-Shirts: 150 requested at $24 each less 10% discount. Total: $3,240.00.
- Tactical Flashlights: $8,600.00 for top quality models for either pistol or rifle.
- Kevlar Blankets: $9350.00 for just 10 blankets.

As you can see, Angels, the need is great (and sometimes daunting) but together, we can help these heroes! Please send donations to:

Soldiers’ Angels
1150 N. Loop 1604 W., Suite 108-493
San Antonio, TX 78248

And remember: every little bit helps!

NEW CONTEST ANNOUNCED FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY

A care package will be sent to your adopted soldier in your name if you contact your local recruiter in March and provide St Patrick’s Day treats (cupcakes, brownies, cookies, etc). After your visit, email Patti with your soldier’s contact information, and that soldier will receive a $20.00 gift certificate to http://minimus.biz/ .

Secondly, any Angel who locates and contacts their local VA and establishes a team to go in and help our wounded will receive the Golden Wings Prize, consisting of the following:

1 Soldiers Angels Golden Certificate
2 Gold Pins
2 Gold Coins
2 Tshirts (Black)
2 Tshirts (White)
2 Car Magnets
1 Works package for the hero of their choice

Thank you, as always, for the wonderful work that you do on a daily basis!

OVERSEAS COUPON PROGRAM

Are you looking for another way to support our troops and their families? Consider helping the Overseas Coupon Program (OCP). This program serves military families by providing them with manufacturer's coupons. These coupons are sent to overseas military bases, where they are placed on tables, at the PX and Commissary, or handed out for use by military members and families on base. This helps the family save valuable dollars and stretch their budget. Remember: the average Sunday newspaper contains approximately $125 worth of coupons!

For more information, please visit http://www.ocpnet.org./