To the Editor:
Sgt. Paul Baptist of Bristol is attached to the 439th Civil Engineering Squadron out of Chicopee, Mass. This Air Force unit has recently been deployed to Afghanistan for six months.
It was brought to his family’s attention that the soldiers were required to supply their own pillows, twin sheets, and blankets. When deployed stateside in the US, these items are provided for them. You may wonder why not there. I cannot answer that question for I, too, wonder.
Any items the soldiers need, whether the above-mentioned items or any personal care items, they have to purchase them with a special debt card. The money comes directly out of their pay. Many of these young soldiers have never been deployed before. Money is a real issue for them.
To keep in touch with their families is extremely expensive. Calling cards are based on units instead of minutes. The purchase price for one of these cards is more then a single month’s cell phone bill. Internet access is $70 a month. Many cannot afford this luxury.
This has led to the creation of Care for our Troops Program.
As Paul’s wife and a substitute teacher at Lincoln Academy, I decided something had to be done to help these men who are over there. Because Lincoln Academy has a reputation for its dedication to helping those in need, I went to the school for help. I asked the students and staff for donations for the soldiers. Now I am asking our community.
My family has lived in this area for over 14 years. We have supported Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Little League, Homecoming and have volunteered hours of our time helping out wherever we are needed just as many of you have.
My husband has left behind not only his family – Hillary, Nathaniel, Benjamin, and myself – but his electrical business, River Mills Electrical, as well.
Care for our Troops is something anyone can be a part of. Toothpaste, shaving cream, deodorant, soap, twin sheets, and gum are just a few of the items the soldiers have asked for. Cards and letters are always welcome. I will be shipping a box of donated items periodically and the items will be distributed to all branches of servicemen.
There is drop-off box at Lincoln Academy for your convenience. I can be contacted at airforcewife1973@yahoo.com if you have any questions or if you would like a complete list of items. Thank you in advance!
Lisa Baptist and family, Bristol
