Washington, DC - Yesterday, Congressman Jim Baird and members of the For Country Caucus joined forces with national nonprofit, Operation Gratitude, to impact thousands of deployed troops in recognition of Military Appreciation Month and to draw attention to the importance of constructing a national memorial to the veterans who have served in the Global War on Terrorism.

“The For Country Caucus is proud to join with Operation Gratitude for today’s event. Preparing these care packages is a small way for those of us here in the United States to show our appreciation for the brave Americans who are currently serving abroad,” said Congressman Baird. “It’s not easy for these young men and women to be away from their families and friends for long periods of time. Until our troops return to American soil, it is important we show that we stand by them. And as a Vietnam veteran, I know the importance of making sure our troops continue to feel supported even after they return home. The For Country Caucus is focused on supporting our service members at home and abroad.”

Volunteers, including members of the For Country Caucus worked to assemble 5,000 individually addressed care packages at the DC National Guard Armory to be shipped to deployed Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors as a tangible way to express appreciation for their service and a reminder that their sacrifice does not go unnoticed.

Cochairs of the Caucus, Congressman Van Taylor (R-TX-03) and Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME-02) shared, “The For Country Caucus is proud to team up with Operation Gratitude as we bring awareness to the importance of serving our troops both at home and abroad. Just as it’s important to stand with members of our Armed Forces while overseas, upon their return home we must recognize the incredible sacrifices made by our service members and their families. Today’s event underscores the need for a Global War on Terrorism Memorial, right here in Washington DC on the National Mall which will provide troops, and their loved ones a place for healing and reflection.”

Specifically, the care packages will be delivered to service members aboard the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, USS Carter Hall, USS Laboon, USS Dwight D Eisenhower, and USS Sullivan. The packages contain personal care products, snacks, coffee, handmade items, and handwritten letters from grateful Americans across the country.

Co-Chaired by Congressman Van Taylor (R-TX-03) and Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME-02), the For Country Caucus is a group of principled military veterans in Congress who strive to create a government that is less polarized, more efficient, and is trusted by Americans. Together, they share a vision of a Congress that is strategic in purpose, focused on action, and dedicated to putting their country first.

Operation Gratitude's mission is to forge strong bonds between service members and civilians through hands-on volunteerism and meaningful engagements and veterans, like FCC members- who are also leaders in their communities and our nation- play a critical role in bridging that civil-service divide.

The For Country Caucus is a group of principled military veterans in Congress who strive to create a government that is less polarized, more efficient, and is trusted by Americans. Together, they share a vision of a Congress that is strategic in purpose, focused in action, and dedicated to putting their country first.

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