When kindergarten teacher Beth Bruce found out the father of one of her students was serving in Iraq, she wanted to make sure the young girl felt supported by her school and her classmates.
So Bruce, who teaches at Orion Oaks Elementary, embarked on a project.
She called Jill Kettler to find out what her husband, CW3 Kurt Kettler, an instructor pilot stationed in Al-Kut, would like to have out in the desert.
Then she sent a letter home to the families of Audrey Kettler’s kindergarten classmates.
‘Everyone was so generous,? Bruce said, noting families helped fill a big box with chapstick, beef jerky, mixed nuts, batteries, popcorn, powdered drink mixes, granola bars and other goodies. ‘They sent in a ton of stuff.?
Bruce and the kids sent the box on its way in early December.
Not long after, a bright American flag, signed by Audrey’s dad and his comrades, arrived at Orion Oaks.
‘On behalf of everyone here at the FOB Delta MEDEVAC, I want to thank you for your very kind gift,? began the letter from Kettler. ‘I can’t wait to dig into all the nice goodies you sent. I just hope I don’t get too full from eating all of it with my friends. I especially liked the book’What does a Soldier Do. I am passing it around to all of my fellow soldiers so they can read it as well.?
In addition to the flag, which flew over the base on Thanksgiving Day, the students each received a patch like those worn by soldiers at the base.
‘It’s a challenge when you have a child with a parent overseas,? said Bruce. ‘My brother-in-law is over there too, so I know how much they appreciate those care packages.?
And back mom in Orion, she noted Audrey Kettler feels good to know she and her family are supported in the community.