School kids watch video of soldiers in Iraq opening care package
ALBANY, Ore. -- A group of kids from Albany Christian School sent care packages to soldiers in Iraq last year. On Friday, they got to see first-hand how their hard work is touching people half-way around the world.
Deep in the middle of the desert, surrounded by camoflage, and sand, soldiers from Oregon got a little taste of home. They opened small boxes packed with plenty of love.
"I got a brush, some baby powder, a lot of little furry things," said one soldier.
Back at home is the passion behind the packages. Fifth graders at Albany Christian School put the boxes together and sent them to Iraq last year. Some of the soldiers visited the school before they deployed. On Friday, the kids watched a video of the soldiers opening the presents.
"I put a bunch of Girl Scout cookies in there too," said Jessica Woodall.
With the gifts came glowing grins.
"This is great," said Pvt. Tylar Scholander.
The kids also wrote letters to the soldiers.
"I said that we are all thinking about you and you are all in our hearts and that we are all praying that you guys be safe and come home safely to your families," said Jeremy Thorpe.
Jeremy knows all too well about the dangers of war. His brother died four years ago while serving in Iraq.
"He was just always there for me," said Jeremy. "If he was still there those probably would have gone to him too."
Jeremy sent the soldiers stuffed animals for the Iraqi kids. Jeremy said his brother would tell him how much fun he had playing with them.
The care packages were auctioned off to raise money for the school. A teacher there said this class will continue supporting the battalion and sending them letters and boxes.
