American veteran says thank you

Friday, November 7, 2008 3:39 PM CST

Dear Rain for Rent Team,

First things first, thank you all for your support and prayers. It’s great to be home with my family and back to work with the Rain for Rent Family. Over this past year, I had the honor of serving with some Great Americans in our effort to rid the world of terrorism. Although many media sources report these efforts in a negative light, I can assure you that progress is being made, thanks to our men and women.

During this tour, I led a team on a project to construct a forward operating base that was located “in the middle of nowhere.” There was nothing but sand for miles in any direction. Other than project material and support equipment, there was nothing. No running water, no hot meals, no phones, and no e-mail (sounds good, huh? Well, maybe for about a week). The best days came with the arrival of the logistics convoys. New bags of food (hoorah), drinks, and MAIL! Not Email, but real mail in envelopes and boxes.

With every delivery of mail, we received letters, postcards, and gifts from church groups, veteran’s organizations, community support groups, the Boy Scouts, and elementary schools. I would watch as the crew would shuffle through the boxes and pass around these cards and letters. Their faces would light up with pride as they read the words “you are my hero” from a 1st grader; or, “keep up the good work,” from an old salty veteran. Just knowing people back home appreciated our service was motivating.

As these holidays approach, I hope you all take time to say “thanks” to a person in uniform. I am thankful for those great Americans in uniform. I am also thankful for the great Americans here at home who work hard every day to earn a living and contribute to society in a positive way.

George Jones

Rain for Rent Branch Manager/Tucson, AZ SCPO, USNR

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