Background

Late one night in November 2001, I sat in my living room watching a MSNBC report on military ships leaving San Diego, CA. These ships were deploying early (originally they were to leave after the Christmas holiday season) due to our nation's new call in the War on Terrorism. As these American troops moved away from of the security of home and country, and toward an uncertain future in a foreign land, I was filled with mixed emotions. I felt great sadness for their families, frustration with the new reality our nation was experiencing, and helplessness, wondering "Is there anything can I do? How can I help?"

I created my own answers to those questions. I founded "Operation Grateful Nation (OGN)"- a civilian service project with a mission to support our Armed Forces' families. The support is given by writing to them - offering words of encouragement and hope, thanking them for their sacrifices, and honoring them for their courage. When duty calls, these families are separated from their loved ones for indefinite periods of time. Many face the fear that these honorable soldiers may not return safely home. I know that we, as Americans, are thankful for the liberties we enjoy as a result of the dedication and efforts of the men and women of the Armed Forces. Many Americans have recently experienced increased feelings of patriotism, compassion and gratitude. My intention for developing this project is to (1) give people an outlet to express their feelings of gratitude, (2) acknowledge our military families and create communication between them and civilian families, and (3) educate the public about various military charities in the event someone wants to "give more".

Many previously used letter-writing campaigns have been banned due to increased postal safety concerns. When working with a military base in creating this project, it was suggested that our messages either be written (1) on postcards - which move more efficiently through base mailrooms and can be mailed individually, or in larger volumes (in the case of a group project), or (2) via email (to be sent to a pre-designated email address on each participating military base). Writing postcards seems to have the widest appeal as people of all ages can participate, a computer isn't required to participate, and it makes for a great group activity.

This project is simple. It only requires a little time and consideration. Looking back in history, I don't think there has ever been a national movement to support our Armed Forces' families. We have a unique opportunity before us, and I hope that you will join me (and others who have already started the project) to do our part in giving back to those who are already giving so much. We can move this project forward one person, one classroom, one church congregation, one community at a time.

It is my sincerest hope that every military family will know how much they are thought of, prayed for and appreciated. We must let them know that their sacrifices are not in vain, and they and their loved ones will never be forgotten. Regardless of where we stand on government policies, we MUST stand UNITED in supporting our troops (and their families). We need to be a people who our Armed Forces would be proud to serve and fight for, because without them, these freedoms that we now enjoy and cherish could be gone.

Thank you for your time. May you and your families receive blessings of peace and protection at this difficult time, and may we ALL return home safely to our loved ones each day.

Lisa Macey
Winston-Salem, NC
lisa@gratefulnation.net

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