Support the troops overseas

I'm building a package of "spare" parts, paints and tools to send along and have asked my local modeling friends for their contribution. I also resolved to stop and buy something at the LHS to add to the package.

There has been other threads on this forum about supporting your local LHS, something I believe in. I buy all my paints, glues, thinners, brushes, sanding sticks and FSM magazines from there, and at least half my models. The rest I buy online, but only models that the LHS doesn't normally have in stock. He knows I buy online, I've told him so and why. He also knows that I attempt to buy all I can from him. We're on a first name basis, and I always spend a few moments just chatting with him about non model related things. What I experienced today is exactly the reason why we should do all we can to support the LHS.

I was wandering around the store thinking about how much I should buy and number crunching when Jim (the owner) asked me what I was up to. He knows my pattern by now, and I was decidedly outside of my normal browsing!

I told him how I was going to send a care package to the armed forces hobby clubs in Iraq and Afghanistan. I was going to ask Jim for a discount to max out my buying power, and so launched into an explanation of how Jeff and Dave at FSM are personally helping out with arranging care packages (he carries Fine Scale, Scale Auto and a handful of their modeling books, and so is familiar with the company) when he cut me off with the question of how much was I willing to spend. I told him how much I was willing to plunk down (which is not important to the story).

He did some calculating and then asked if he could put together a package for me. I said sure. He buzzed around the store and came up with a couple of kits, some bottles of paint and a paint brush set. Total value was double my original amount. So in other words he matched me dollar for dollar, and then ate the taxes! I never did get to ask for a discount. Jim and I then spent a few moments discussing how even though we're Canadian and may or may not support the War on Terrorism, that the men and women on the front line deserve our support and thanks. Helping out with the hobby club drive is a small pay back to the troops who are putting their lives on the line for freedom. And who's only reward is a small paycheck, three squares a day, a bunk and hours of boredom in a hostile land, far away from their families.

I know that the rule is no unpaid advertising in the forums, but I'm breaking that rule! I think Jim Rancier of BC Hobby & Shaver, 104-1835 Dilworth Drive, Kelowna, BC, Canada (250-868-0508) is well worth taking the risk for!

When I finally arrived at home (later than usual due to the stop at the LHS) my kids saw the kits and asked what was up. When I told them what they were for, they immediately went to their cash stash and donated some money for more paints. I will be stopping by the LHS again tomorrow night to purchase those! Ask me if I'm a proud dad!

I hope my story will inspire others to visit their LHSs and see if they can also get some support for this worthwhile endeavour.

I would like to thank the staff at FSM for the inspiration, and their support of this project.

Bravo Zulu!!!

I'm sure the guys and gals overseas will appreciate what you're doing for them.

Best,

Jeff

Good on ya Bill!

I can tell you as a former soldier of the Canadian army. The effort you put forward will mean more than you know. I know first hand that Fine Scale was one of the most "thumbed" through magazines that the welfare section of our unit picked up every month for the squaddies to read.

We might not have always been in a model building environment, but it was nice just to sit back and read an issue when you had the chance.

Cheers;

Gregory

Thanks guys!

It is both less effort and more reward than I thought it would be. I never served myself, though I was born on an army base, and my family has a long tradition of military service dating back to at least the French Indian war of 1755. I respect and admire those who do serve their country in any of the branches of the armed forces.

My hope is that my efforts brings a smile to soldier's face, or lessens the boredom for even a few hours. I can only imagine what it must be like to be so far away from your family and friends, for such an extended time.

The IPMS USA site has a section "Supporting Our Troops" with information about the various clubs.  They include updates from the clubs, what they're doing, what they need and so on.  I encourage anyone who is interested in findint out more to read through some of the information available on their site.

Here are a couple of comments as to why this is so important:

On Tuesday morning received a reply; unfortunately a supply convoy was ambushed by IED, one of his men lost a leg and three were wounded. He was very grateful that the boxes were on their way, hoping this would improve his troops morale.

From the Fort Tall Afar update:

Hello Mr. Noack, I've been in northern Iraq since early September, fighting in and around the city of Tall Afar. Yesterday, our outpost was hit by a homicide bomber, killing 27 men (4 of our Iraqi soldiers), and wounding over 30. Life is pretty dangerous here and there are few opportunities for any leisure activities. I've been reading in Fine Scale Modeler about efforts to get model supplies to troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have no access to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities and are pretty much isolated from the rest of the outside world. I am with an Army Reserve unit serving as an advisor to the Iraqi Army. We live, fight, eat, and spend our off time with our Iraqi troops. I am looking at ways to take our soldiers' minds off of the many horrors that they see so often, and thought that model building would be a good activity to get young soldiers involved in. Do you know of any clubs or organizations that would like to help us? Most of my guys are from Virginia, so if there are any clubs or organizations looking to support someone from their hometowns, we might be worth considering. If you know of anyone that would be willing to help, or could send some information, I can be reached at the following address: CPT David C. Wallace, Jr. CMATT, Fort Tall Afar 311 MTT APO AE 09334 E-mail: david.wallacejr@us.army.mil My thanks to all of you out there in the hobby industry and community that are doing so much to support our soldiers deployed in combat zones. Most Respectfully, David C. Wallace, Jr. Captain, Infantry 311 MTT Team XO/Operations Officer

As I heard in a commentary, these guys are like the rest of us.  There are Republicans, Democrats, Independents, some are in support of the war and some aren't, some want to be there and some don't.  So we're going to leave the politics to the politicians. 

The important message here is that these are regular people who could use our help.  They're asking for help from the hobby industry and community for leisure activities to get their minds off of the difficulties they face and the ordeals they go through. 

David Voss wrote:

So we're going to leave the politics to the politicians.

Gee, I don't know if that's such a hot idea. I mean, look what they've done with politics so far!

Okay, that was a joke, and this thread's supposed to be serious. So in order to return the thread to it's real intent...

I would like to see some more posts here on what people have done in support of this project. So let's hear all about!

I sent 3 kits to the Kandahar club.  It's easy, the customs form isn't that bad.  It's been over 3 weeks so they should have recieved them by now.  One Academy UH-60 in 1/48, one Ford Skyliner hardtop convertible and a '65 Mustang.  The idea of sending Fine Scale issues is great and I'll probably send a few soon. 

Dave

I've been notified that the contact person for the Baghdad TMC has changed.  I'll post an update as soon as I get more information.

Hey guys.
"Support the Troops", is a great idea.
Don't forget the guys and gals back here in VA Hospitals, or just at the VFW or Foreign Legion either.
Sometimes you can drop of a model kit at the hospital or clinic. They will make sure it gets to a deserving vet. Assembled models are really appreciated too, even a low quality builder like myself can find his stuff on a shelf getting praise from a person that knows. Better than a plaque or ribbon too.
You can get alot of information from those vets too, the models help break the ice, and soon you'll find a real reference source!!

Don

Don --- Bravo Zulu!!!  a lot of the guys back in the VA's are alone... I've been there enough back when I first got out of the service to realize that a lot of them are "forgotten" and something like you said would be great.. With times getting tighter for the VA and less money being spent I am sure a little diversion would be something to get a smile out of more than a few down there... I'm going to try to contact the right person down at the Houston VAMC and see if it is feasible or possible.  (providing I can find the "right" person)

 

If any one else finds this interesting, a good place to start would be the Occupational Therapy dept.  they work with people to develop motor skills to where a person can function or even get back to work.. a simple kit would help with coordinating fine motor skills etc...

As far as built kits... probably nurses stations and such would be a good place to start.  They might allow them in the solarium.  I am not good enough for this yet, but if someone else is... even approach the pink ladies or information people out front and see if you can get it in a display there... (would be better if you have more than one)  The PA office is another avenue...

Ditto for helping out the guys and gals now in the VA hospitals, and those still recovering from wounds in the major military medical facilities.  Prior to getting "called up" for this current operation in Iraq, my VFW post had been working with a small, outpatient clinic treating returning veterans for head and brain injuries and it was a mutually beneficial project.  Our members made new friends with young veterans, and the young vets made friends with us.  While looking for worthy projects to support, don't be afraid to contact your local Veterans of Foreign Wars or the American Legion.  They are a great source for information, and may know of ongoing "morale support" efforts that assist local and regional hospitals.  The VFW website has a post locator for the group nearest you; for more info check out the website at: www.vfw.org.

For all you folks that have read the posts here, thanks for your interest.  There has been a great deal of inquiries and support from folks back home in the good ol' USA.  To all of you, my most sincere gratitude and thanks on behalf of the Fort Tall Afar Hobby Club.

Tall Afar Dave 

 

Quick update on my package I'm building for the troops. I just met with Dave Shaver AKA Razordws at the Kelowna Airport where he was picking up his wife. He was very generous with his contribution, and I will be stopping by my LHS on the way home tomorrow night to pickup additional supplies.

So a big hand to Razordws, who's selfless donation will help ease the boredom of the troops. I couldn't do this without the help of people like Dave. Well Done!

I have one more contributor to meet with and I'll get this package posted.

Well, I finally managed to get all the donations together and send off a package. I mailed off the gift box of kits and paints today.



This is only a partial of the entire box, I took this picture and then received one more donation. I also was browsing my local discount auto store and found hobby knives and tweezers on sale. Total package contains 6 kits (2 auto, 4 aircraft, sorry guys, no armor!) 27 acrylic paints, 3 hobby knives, 4 tweezers, some sand paper, and 8 paintbrushes. I figure the grand total to be about $180 CDN (about $155 US).

I would like to thank:

Dave Shaver (Razordws), Okanagan Valley BC
Dave Brown, Westbank BC
Jack Thompson, Kelowna BC
Jim Rancier of BC Hobby & Shaver, Kelowna BC
Tomas Grigg, Kelowna BC
Robert Grigg, Kelowna B C
And some unnamed fellow model builder who overheard the LHS owner and I talking about it and kicked in $5!

All of the above were incredibly generous and without their help I couldn't have done this at all! Thanks everyone!

And more importantly, Thanks to all the service men and women who serve in all branches of the military. Democracy is a precious priviledge, and I appreciate that through their effort and selfless determination, that I live in a peaceful and prosperous nation, and that I am free to do my small part to assist them.

Bill Grigg, Kelowna BC

Update: I've just received an email from an Army officer in Iraq that's starting a brand-new model club. FSM is helping out to get them up and running, but I think this package from our Canadian friends up north will definitely get this new club moving!!!

I'd like to personally thank Bill and his crew from British Columbia for their support. They didn't have to pitch in and help out a bunch US grunts in a war they're not involved in, but they did. That really says something, and we're lucky to have guys like you in our community!!

Thanks,

Jeff

You're welcome, Jeff.

I would be very pleased if the new hobby club gets our kit.

We might not be involved in Iraq, but we are in Afghanistan, and I also think that Canada as a nation hasn't been pulling it's weight in regards to North American security. I think of Canada and the US more as brothers in a greater nation called North America, and it is in that spirit that we are helping out. Regardless of the political differences of our respective countries, or the legitimacy of the battle being fought in Iraq, I know that the grunts on the ground are missing their family, their friends and their hobby! If our small token of appreciation can help, then it is well worth the tiny effort it has entailed.

Semper Fi

Bill

Well Bgrigg, we've had our "opinions" but putting that aside, what an admirable thing you've done, so much so, that I've just offered to do what I can for the other post in this topic area.

Don't suppose it will amount to hundreds, with the little one on the way, but your posts, made a good argument, for once

Merry Christmas to all, and stay safe

WOW! I got Vapochilled to agree with me! Wahoo! That feels almost as good as sending the package.

Every little bit helps, and ask around, you'll be surprised what you might get. Good luck!

vapochilled wrote:

Well Bgrigg, we've had our "opinions" but putting that aside, what an admirable thing you've done, so much so, that I've just offered to do what I can for the other post in this topic area. Don't suppose it will amount to hundreds, with the little one on the way, but your posts, made a good argument, for once Merry Christmas to all, and stay safe

There's a little vapochilled on the way?  Congrats!

It's not about what or how much you send, anything will be greatly appreciated by those guys and gals over there. 

Bgrigg wrote:

WOW! I got Vapochilled to agree with me! Wahoo! That feels almost as good as sending the package.

 

Every December, IPMS/SLC has our annual Christmas Party.  During that meeting we donate kits for the Utah Primary Children's Hospital, the VA Hospital and usually another group.  One of our members helped set up the Baghdad Hobby Club and we were one of the first to send kits, supplies, etc.  This year we are doing the same but I have a question.  Which group of soldiers are you supporting and how did you pick that unit?  The reason I ask is when we started this, there was one location in Iraq to send things, now we have 5 or more plus the troops in Afghanistan and other places throughout the world.  Which one needs stuff more?  Will each group that is sending stuff pick the first name on the list and they get inundated but the other groups get nothing or not much.  I sent a suggestion into IPMS/USA but my idea probably needs some sanity check.

Would be nice if we had a central distributing location for all the troops.  Could be located here in the US, could be located overseas (like in Baghdad).  Each group posts (here and elsewhere) what they are in need of (I hear black acrylic paint is always in demand as well as other paint especially military colors in acrylics).  Clubs, manufacturers, individuals can pic from these lists and send what they can to the location which then sends the required products to the area of most need.

Ok, logistics are a big issue here.  Who in the US wants to take this responsibility?  Do we end up shipping items twice and will that cost more (probably).  Would it work better if a group in, say, Iraq or Kuwait steps up and says they can handle that thearter of operations?  What happens when that person/unit rotates home, who takes over?  Yea, I see the problems and wish I had a few more answers.  Maybe something like this thread can help.  "Our club sent xx models and yy paint to zz unit."  Another group sees this and says aha, we will send ours to aa unit and so on. 

What do you all think?  What do you guys and gals in the Military think?

Ladies and Gentlemen I just want to say how awesome this is. I am heading to Iraq in less than a month and was tempted to bring a model or two and basic supplies but decided not to due to the beating baggage gets on the way there.

To anyone who has not deployed in the military, deployments are stressful for all, from the REMFs in the USAF (like me) to the front line soldiers. Anything we can do helps and this is a really helpfull thing. I will have to look up if there is a club where I am going.

So from one Air Force member to all of you. THANKYOU!

Have a Merry Christmas Folks... and remember, to a military person, we dont care about the politics of the war, we just know we have a job to finish there, and we want to finish it right so we dont have to come back in 10 years.

 

Stay safe.

 Crash

Sir,

    Good luck in your deployment and be safe. I have been in Baghdad for some time now. Believe me, models are the best therapy. When you get to theatre drop me a line, we might be in the same place. Enjoy your Christmas and have a safe deployment.

sir?!

   I too work for a living. LOL.. call me Crash of Airmen,  Sarge... I'm sure you understand.

I might be coming through, but wont be stationed.

 

PM sent to ya

The following is based upon my experience with my local post offices.  I know from talking with others, that the following wasn't the same for them.  From my own personal experience, I've also had different experiences when visiting different post offices.  So take the following information for what it's worth.

 -- -- -- -- -- --

When I sent out packages for our troops overseas, I've been told to fill out the large customs form, not the small green one -- regardless of weight.  When filling out the form, there's a box in the lower right hand corner to specify what to do if the package is undeliverable.  One postal clerk said to fill this with "deliver to company chaplain".  This ensures that if that particular person isn't there anymore to accept delivery that it can still be made available to the members of that company.  (+1 post office - excellent tip )

If you're sending out books and magazines, ship them separately.  By shipping separately, books can be sent out using the Media Mail rates (also called "book rate"), magazines can be sent out using Bound Printed Matter rates, both of which are cheaper than Parcel Post.

Jeff... or anyone else with updated info... 

I have a pile of kits I want to send overseas.  I am off to the LHS today to get some acrylic paint and other supplies too.  Does someone have updated contact info… name or where to send to guys and gals in Iraq?

 

Hi Wingnut!

We just recently had a change in address here at the Tall Afar Hobby Club with the movement of troops here and there.  Our address is as follows:

CPT David Wallace, (Ft. Tall Afar Hobby Club)

C Co, 1/1 AD (311 MTT)

FOB Sykes

APO AE 09334-1138

We have a brand new bunch of guys here and they are very eager builders; I am impressed to be with such talented kids and great Soldiers.  They have a voracious appetite for plastic and paints.  My many thanks to the following people that recently sent the club some kits and supplies:

Bill Barrett and Friends at Light Ship Hobbies, Charlottesville, VA

Bob Bartolacci and Nancy Petosky of Michigan

Andrew Bennett, Patriot IPMS in Mass.

Bill Bossert and Company, Igor Sikorsky Chapter IPMS of Milford, CT

Kyle Garber, Corrales, NM

Doug Howard, Brookings, OR  (Thanks again Doug!)

Jerry Lindquist of Master Modeler Display, Miami, IN

Bruce McGarvey, Medford, OR (Trying to convert us to the 'dark side of modeling' rail roading!! lol)

Dennis Meyers and River City Historical Minature Society, Elk Grove, CA

Byron Taylor and IPMS Space Coast, Malalar, FL

Rusty White and IPMS Metro Oklahoma City, OK

Jeff Whorl, Lexington Park, MD

We will be getting you guys a new point of contact soon as my unit prepares for movement back home.  To each of you, I offer my most sincere thanks and gratitude for all that you have done for the guys stationed at Ft. Tall Afar.  Without going into details, our guys have been attacked frequently and are constantly in harm's way in a hostile area. Time and time again, the Soldiers tell me how thankful they are to have such wonderful supporters like you all back home; they are deeply touched by your kindness as I am.

Thanks for everything,

Dave and the Tall Afar Hobby Club 

Hey Dave,

Great to hear you're rotating back! You be sure to drop me a line when you get stateside and get some free time on your hands.

Jeff

Hey Jeff,

Will do; really looking forward to it, but it's still months away yet. I got promoted a few days ago, a nice surprise.  Hope all is well with you.  Thanks for everything,

 

Dave W.

Major Dave Wallace?? They'll promote anyone won't they!?  Seriously though, congrats on the promotion, I'm sure it's well deserved.

I guess the pay hike means you can afford all those pricey new kits now, huh?

JH