United for the Troops’ Operation Defend the Holidays is Underway
Those who are serving the United States Armed Forces overseas have sacrificed so much in order to ensure that the rights and freedoms of Americans and its allies are protected. One organization wants to give the soldiers a little gift back.
Every year since 2007, United for the Troops (UftT) makes care packages to send the troops who are serving during the war. The project, referred to as “Operation Defend the Holidays” collects items the soldiers have requested as necessities in making their service easier during this difficult time.
On Saturday, Nov. 17, UftT and Southside Bar and Grille in Mahopac are hosting an annual fundraiser for their efforts.
“This has always been our biggest fundraiser,” said James Rathschmidt, a Mahopac resident who is one of the founders of UftT. “Without it we would not be able to send over 500 needed gift boxes to our soldiers during our holiday season. “
The event which starts at 5 p.m. at Southside Bar and Grille is open to the public and includes live music, a buffet, raffles and lots of surprises.
In addition to the fundraiser, UftT is also accepting donations of items requested by the soldiers. A list of the items, which includes things like cookies, toiletries and DVDs, is available online at www.UnitedForTheTroops.org.
Rathschmidt is also looking for volunteers to help pack the care packages on Saturday, Nov. 24 at the American Legion on Buckshollow Road in Mahopac starting at 9 a.m.
United for the Troops was created by friends and families of American troops serving the U.S. overseas. Its sole purpose is to make life, while at war, a little better for the brave men and women serving in the U.S. Armed Forces by collecting food, money, and goods that the military does not provide them. The military provides the troops with the essentials needed for day-to-day life, but many of them miss the extra amenities that they receive while at home.
The goal of Untied for the Troops is to show the soldiers that the people back in the U.S. are proud of them and appreciate all of their efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas of the world being affected by this war.
For more information contact James Rathschmidt at (845) 729-4239.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.
