By Jay Conti Sr., American Legion
4th District Vice Commander

There are many great reasons to belong to the American Legion family, but I can think of no greater purpose than to support our hospitalized heroes.

Operation Comfort Warriors accomplishes this mission since last December, Operation Comfort Warriors has raised $189,483 to purchases items not normally budgeted through government channels to troops recovering in U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units around the world.

These items have included sweatsuits, iPods, computer games, DVD players, puzzles, books and other comfort items. Operation Comfort Warriors won't heal our troops or make them "whole" again, but it will show them that we care and appreciate their great sacrifices.

Nearly 35,000 of our men and women in uniform have been injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and more are hurt every day. Moreover, thousands more are hurt each year in accidents or are hospitalized due to illnesses. While the American Legion family has raised a lot to help these heroes, the need is even greater. And with your help, we can work toward meeting that need.

The American Legion's goal is to raise an additional $100,000 by the end of the year. The Citrus County Community can help, fellow veterans, friend of veterans, retail stores and restaurants and the average citizens everywhere. Not a single penny of donated money is spent on administrative costs or marketing. Those expenses are paid from American Legion National headquarters budget, so all money you donate to Operation Comfort Warriors goes to help the troops.

Donating to Operation Comfort Warriors has never been easier. You can send a check or money order to American Legion Post #155, ATTN: OPERATION WOUNDED WARRIORS, P.O. Box 908, Crystal River, FL 34423-0908; please make checks payable to Operation Comfort Warriors. All donations will be forwarded to National Headquarters for the proper disbursement.

Donations have come from many sources, including veterans of previous wars, military family members and even children. Combine a great cause with great people and you have a successful program. Operation Comfort Warriors epitomizes one of the founding pillars of The American Legion, care and rehabilitation for veterans. It is, simply, the right thing to do.

The American Legion family knows that supporting the troops is more than a bumper sticker slogan. It is a commitment that requires action. Moreover, it benefits the country. In 1789, George Washington said, "The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional as to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their country."

There can be no doubt that The American Legion appreciates these magnificent heroes. For more information please contact Operation Comfort Warriors coordinator; American Legion Department of Florida, 4th District Vice Commander Jay Conti Sr. at 352-344-5122.