Retired Leathernecks Aid Marines Serving Overseas

A small faction of retired Marines is bringing new meaning to the old motto, “Semper Fidelis” (always faithful).

Veterans from Marine Corps League Brooklyn No. 1, Detachment 217 (VFW Post 107), 2414 Gerritsen Avenue, as part of an effort they’ve called “Operation Shoe Box,” are collecting “comforting items from home” to send to thousands of Marines currently serving overseas in Afghanistan, according to a report by News 12 Brooklyn.

Among the items being collected are hand sanitizers, lotion, shaving cream, baby powder, aspirin, cough drops and other sundry pharmaceuticals, which may not be as readily available in a war-torn nation.

A spokesperson for Marine Corps League Brooklyn No. 1 told News 12 that “it’s important to remember that although President Obama has announced a troop drawdown in Afghanistan, not everyone will be leaving.”

If you would like to learn how you can make a donation to “Operation Shoe Box,” contact Marine Corps League Brooklyn No. 1 by calling 1-646-552-0852, emailing vinnymarine@aol.com, or going to their website.