Dear Mrs. Gilliam and Socks for Soldiers,

I am stationed at Balad, Iraq and recently received a wonderful care package from you.  There aren't too many things that can bring me to tears anymore, but this did.  What an incredible gesture and everything, especially the socks and hat are greatly needed.

I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the three Christmas cards/letters in the box. I kept two and gave one away to another soldier.  One I keep on my bunk and the other I wear in my helmet. 

The letter (with a drawing of a beautiful Christmas tree) in my helmet reads:

Dear Soldier

Thank you for protecting me.  Who is protecting you?  I know your mommy and daddy are not with you for Christmas. I hope you have friends with you for Christmas.  I think you do not have a Christmas tree, so here is a tree. I hope you like it.  I think you are brave. Come home safe so next Christmas you can be with your mommy and daddy. I love you Mr. Soldier.  You are my hero. Ashley  (I am nine years old)

If you happen to know who wrote that letter, please let her know how much it is appreciated.  It's in my helmet and each time I read it, it brings tears to my eyes.  I think it's protecting me and I read it the first thing every morning. 

Thank you again from a most humble soldier.  I cannot even begin to tell you how much you are helping the morale of our soldiers.  God bless you and all of the people that work with you.

PV2 Fielding