Coat donations sought for here, Afghanistan
By Kenneth Fine
Published in News on November 22, 2011 1:46 PM
One of the 4th Fighter Wing's latest missions is unfolding on the homefront.
But if the communities outside the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base gates rally behind the campaign, the results might just make a significant impact in Afghanistan.
Members of the 4th Fighter Wing Component Maintenance Squadron are still collecting winter coats for the youngest victims of the Global War on Terror -- the children who didn't ask to join the fight being waged in their country.
And if their life experience is anything like those of the Iraqis Staff Sgt. Gregory Huffman came into contact with during his tour, the simplest of offerings would mean the world.
"When I was in Iraq, I got to deal with locals there and they don't have a lot," the airman said. "So we're just trying to get as many coats -- as many kids coats -- as we can."
But time is running out.
The drive, which began several weeks ago, ends Nov. 28.
And once the coats are collected, those being sent to Afghanistan -- people can also choose to have their donations go to the Salvation Army to help Wayne County children -- will be boxed and mailed to Bagram Air Base.
Those DOD cardholders interested in donating a coat to the cause can leave them in drop boxes at the 4th CMS headquarters or the base hospital.
But Wayne residents without access to Seymour Johnson can help, too, Huffman said.
"They can just contact me and we'll figure out how to get up with them," he said.
Those who wish to contribute can reach Huffman at 722-4062.