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Lakewood seeks donations for soldiers

Apr-14-2008 » Filed Under: 4/2 SBCT

By ROB TUCKER, The News Tribune

Lakewood has launched a campaign to fill gift baskets for 2,000 Fort Lewis Stryker soldiers who will return soon from their nearly 15-month tour of Iraq.

The first wave of soldiers from the 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division could come home in late May, although the entire unit likely won’t be back until July.

The brigade’s return is part of the larger troop drawdown in Iraq that U.S. political and military leaders have spoken of for months.

Lakewood City Councilwoman Helen McGovern suggested during a council meeting last month that the city spearhead the gift campaign.

“We want to show how much we appreciate them,” she said last week. “Even though it’s a small thing, it’s personal.”

Public donations will be accepted at City Hall.

The brigade has about 4,000 soldiers. Many will come home to families, but about half will report to the barracks at Fort Lewis because they are single or don’t have family nearby. The gift baskets are meant for the unaccompanied soldiers. [...]

What people can donate: New towels, washcloths, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, shaving supplies, bars of soap, cookies, chips, packaged crackers and cheese, juice, soda, bottled water, candy, cookies, gift cards, telephone calling cards, and discount coupons for movies or pizza.

Where they can drop items off: Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main St. S.W., at the first-floor reception desk during business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

For more information: 253-589-2489


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