11/05/10 State Senator Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso) today encouraged residents to join Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman’s fifth annual holiday season mail campaign for troops called “Hoosier Cheer for Our Heroes.”
“Please remember the brave servicemen and women who will be spending the holidays away from their homes, families and friends,” Charbonneau said.
Skillman’s office is collecting cards and will send them to Indiana troops around the world. Those who want to participate should send cards and letters to Skillman’s Statehouse office by Friday, Nov. 19, to the following address:
Office of Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman
c/o Hoosier Cheer For Our Heroes
200 W. Washington St., Suite 333
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2797
Hoosiers can also send an electronic note to lg@lg.in.gov.
Charbonneau said Skillman’s office received a record 35,629 cards for troops during the 2009 holiday season, topping the previous year’s total by about 15,000. In the four-year history of this campaign, approximately 92,000 cards have been donated and delivered from virtually every county in Indiana.
Sets of cards have come from schools, social clubs, church groups, scouting organizations and families who made it their mission to send as many as possible. In the past, cards have included pictures drawn by children, jokes, scripture and even updates on the Indianapolis Colts. Charbonneau said messages on the cards should be light-hearted and encouraging. Artwork – especially drawn by children – is appreciated.
“Military officials advise it is best to avoid glitter and confetti when sending our troops holiday cards,” Charbonneau said. “Also, as much as folks might be tempted, our cards should not include candy, money or other holiday surprises.”
Charbonneau said the holiday card campaign is an important way for Hoosiers to say “thank you” for the continued efforts of local troops. Since Sept. 11, 2001, Indiana has deployed more than 14,500 National Guard members to Iraq and Afghanistan.
During the holidays, perhaps more than any other time of year, Hoosiers appreciate the heroism of our troops and the sacrifices they make by being away from family and friends, Charbonneau said.
“When you make your holiday card list during this season of giving, it’s important for us to remember those who are putting action behind our hopes for ‘peace on earth,’” Charbonneau said. “Many Hoosiers, including myself, are thankful for our troops and will hopefully take the time to express their appreciation through the lieutenant governor’s wonderful program.”
Senator Charbonneau represents Senate District 5, which includes Starke County and portions of Porter, LaPorte, Marshall, Jasper, Pulaski and St. Joseph counties.
