Letters to

Easy Company

LETTER TO EASY CO. FROM ECHO COMMANDING OFFICER

A LETTER OF APPRECIATION TO ALL MARINES OF EASY COMPANY FOR THE CARE PACKAGES WE PACKAGED AND SENT TO IRAQ; FROM THE SKIPPER, CAPT JOHN KELLEY OF ECHO COMPANY.

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Sir,

It is not too often that I find myself speechless but as I stare at the empty computer screen in front of me I am struggling to find words. 

First of all I would like to thank you and all of your friends for remembering us and taking the time to send us so many needed items. I did receive your care packages and for the most part they were in pretty good shape.  I wish you could have seen the smiles on the Marines’ faces as I brought out box after box of things they really needed and snacks to fill the times between chow hours.  All your gifts were truly appreciated.

What is really on my mind though is not what you sent in terms of things, but the intangible things you sent to us.  I am talking about your support, understanding, and time.  Your support is priceless. You and your organization’s members know the sacrifices the Marines here are making because you too have made those sacrifices.  Having you send your support makes the company all that much stronger.  We draw power from your strength and that helps us continue day in and out.  We are continually inspired by what you all did and strive to uphold the highest traditions here in the company.

Company E is very much a family, a family I am honored to be a part of.  We have been working very hard for the last six months and we have had our highs and lows.  I feel personally very honored to be part of the family. As the commanding officer, I would like to extend my thanks on behalf of all the Echo Marines.  (We had to change the name from Easy to Echo, sorry about that.)

I very much look forward to talking with you when we get back late in the year and I would be honored to have you come visit.  I will do my very best to ensure we are not deployed on a training mission on the dates you mentioned.

Thank you again.

Semper Fidelis,

Captain John Kelley

Echo 2/7

Iraq

6 August 2004

Please pray on this day, and every day, for our Armed Forces standing in harm's way around the world in defense of our liberty, and for the families awaiting their safe return.

God Bless America
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas
   Often Tested,  Always Faithful,  Brothers Forever.
United States Marines

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