OPERATION CHRISTMAS was launched when the
FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE 508TH PIR Association (F&F) learned that the
Family Readiness Groups (FRG’s) wanted to ensure that a Christmas gift
was sent to every Paratrooper in 2-508 PIR.
The call went out to F&F members
and their generosity resulted in a total of $6400 being collected. Seven
checks of $1000 or less were presented to the Company FRG’s to cover
expenses.
THANKS TO ALL - We are proud to say that every soldier of
2-508th PIR will be receiving a package! Our thanks go out to everyone
involved!
SANTA’S SLEIGH ARRIVES - LTC FRANK JENIO recently wrote: “I wanted
to … put out to F&F of the 508th and everyone else that it looks like
the first shipment of gifts from OPERATION CHRISTMAS came in the other
day. We've got some pictures of them and they are posted on our
Battalion Facebook page below:”
http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/2-508-PIR/121978657838
“I would encourage all F&F and anyone else who loves the
508th to become fans on the site - we post pics and videos and updates
on there regularly so it’s a great way to keep updated on how 2Fury is
doing. Thanks again - LTC FRANK JENIO, CDR, TF 2-508 PIR”
FROM THE FIELD - CSM BERT PUCKETT wrote, “I can’t say how
humbled I am at the support the FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE 508TH have
provided. It truly is another indication of the Regiment acting as a
family … and you have, as usual, gone 100% and then some.
I want to update you all on the progress of 2-508’s latest
deployment to Afghanistan. Most of the Battalion has arrived in Kandahar
airfield and are now pushing out to their respective Forward Operating
Bases (FOB’s). The Troopers are doing well over all and are attacking
the mission with the aggressiveness that has always been the hallmark of
82nd Airborne Paratroopers.
The BN will be initially spread over an area the width of half of
North Carolina. LTC Jenio and I will be on the road a lot to check in on
our troopers and insure that they are well taken care of. Our mission of
Advise and Assist is a fairly recent concept in this war and the 508th
is the first BDE in the Army to be tasked to do it. So once again we are
making history in the finest traditions of the 82nd ABN Division.
The boss and I have logged about 3500 miles checking on them,
but the boys have really taking the fight to the enemy. Every Platoon
has been in a fight now and the boss and I are hammering out CIB's as
fast as we can. We also have a few Valor awards up for consideration as
well. Needless to say I am extremely proud of them.
Your support is, as always, invaluable to the success of our
mission. Without it our troopers would not have the confidence they do
to mount up and meet the enemy every day.
CSM Bert Puckett, 2-508 PIR, 82nd ABN DIV, FOB Walton,
Afghanistan.”
LET’S KEEP IT COMING - numerous requests have been received for an
address to write to the soldiers and/or continue to send boxes filled
with goodies throughout their deployment. Please use the following
address:
SUPPORTING A SOLDIER
C/O LTC Frank Jenio
Task Force Fury
FOB Walton
HHC Company 2-508th 4th BCT 82nd
APO, AE 09355
UPCOMING EVENTS – the official opening
ceremony for the 508 memorial at Wollaton Park has been tentatively set
for Sunday, March 14, 2010.
Festivities will include a parade from the City Center to
Wollaton Park. The 508 Historical Group and other organizations are
involved with event planning.
2010 REUNION – the next gathering of the FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE
508TH PIR will be held in Oklahoma City, OK from October 21-24, 2010. A
full slate of activities is being planned including jump demonstrations
and ride-along flights in a C-47. Don’t miss this one!
LOOKING AHEAD – We need to hear from you regarding where the
2011 reunion should be held. Opinions and advice are welcome. Volunteer
hosts for the selected site are vitally necessary. Support your
association and raise your hands!
|
