Iowa Troop Pantry takes pride in supporting soldiers

After reading Thomas Walker's misinformed letter to the editor in the Iowa State Daily, I feel the obligation to provide a rebuttal.

The College Republicans packed care packages in partnership with Iowa Troop Pantry. Since 2010 we have sent more than three tons of supplies to deployed Iowans. We take pride in our ability to provide this support.

Walker stated, “Doesn't the U.S. Army victual its soldiers? Don't their families send them yuletide goodies? Aren't GIs paid enough to buy what they need, and even what they want?”

The military does not provide service members with adequate supplies. We have requests from units who receive one meal per day. Last Christmas, a unit of Marines was overrun with vermin and requested mouse traps which they could not obtain in the country.

Not all service members receive “yuletide goodies.” Some receive no mail. This is why we send multiple packages for units to disperse to those that receive nothing.

Regarding purchasing supplies, they are limited by base location and availability of items. Some locations of bases are located in the mountains and dangerous locations.

You may not have respect for service members who volunteered for the military, but there are many people in this country who will support them despite public opinion.

If you would like to gain real life knowledge about the importance of care packages, contact me. I would be happy to have your help.

Maria Tyson

President

Iowa Troop Pantry

Iowa City