In the season of giving, Maple Grove residents have shown their gratitude and support for the U.S. troops abroad with an initiative that has deeply touched those on the receiving end. The City of Maple Grove, MN - Local Government reached out on social media to acknowledge the community for their overwhelming generosity in responding to their request for care package donations last month, geared to brighten active service members' holidays.

The heartfelt thanks came directly from the troops when a member of the 932nd Forward Resuscitation Surgical Detachment deployed in Iraq, communicated their appreciation via social media. "We were incredibly fortunate to receive your care packages," wrote the soldier, whose unit along with the 204th MCAS, a medical unit based out of Minnesota provides emergency medical services in Western Iraq to U.S. Forces, and their coalition partners. "Many of these items are not only incredibly helpful but also remind us why it is an honor to serve," they added, highlighting the impact of these parcels not just practically, but morally as well.

The packages included an assortment of thoughtful gifts and items but equally impactful were the letters and cards, brimming with personal messages from those back home. The troops found the written words of encouragement and hope to be particularly stirring, serving as a poignant reminder of the unity and support awaiting them across the sea.

In a photo attached with the message, SPC Nava, an Army nurse, stands dwarfed by the stack of care packages – a visual testament to Maple Grove's spirit of giving, and the breadth of their contributions. The soldier's message concluded with a reaffirmation of the significance of such acts of kindness, "Organizations and individuals like you truly exemplify the best of our country," wrapping up a correspondence that no doubt has reinforced the bridge between home and front lines.