As we are all busy finalizing travel plans, writing term papers, studying for finals and wishing the semester was over, it’s hard not to let our minds wander ahead to December.

Then, many of us will be at home celebrating the holidays with our families. In the spirit of goodwill and love, many of us are moved to make donations of time, money, food, clothing and gifts to brighten the holidays for those who are less fortunate than ourselves. Many of us, however, still fail to recognize members of another population who might need their days brightened, now and throughout the holiday season.

It’s easy to forget these people, despite the fact that they are often celebrated, loved and respected by most of us. You can’t walk down the street without seeing how many of those in our community have these people in their hearts, thoughts and prayers each day. They are our soldiers, many of whom are in the Middle East.

So why do I say we are forgetting them? Because we are. Showing your support and respect through observing military holidays, wearing yellow ribbons and putting bumper stickers on your car will make the troops happy when they return home. It will be a reminder for veterans that they are recognized and appreciated. It does nothing for those who are serving their duty on the other side of the world, however.

Most of these soldiers will not be home for the holidays. Although many will get mail and perhaps have the opportunity to call home, there are an alarming number who do not.

Whether or not you support the decision of our government to keep a military presence in the Middle East, please think of the men and women who will be spending the holidays (and every day) away from home and without reminders that they are appreciated. There are men and women who will not receive cards or gifts next month. There are men and women who do not get care packages or reminders that someone back home cares.

One soldier, Sgt. Brian Horn, noticed that other members of his squadron were not getting the letters and packages that he and some of the other men and women were.

Realizing this was unfortunate, he began receiving and distributing packages and letters addressed to “Any Soldier.” This way, soldiers who did not have family to send them packages were able to experience the excitement and joy associated with getting personal mail.

The holidays are coming soon. It is important any time for soldiers to get reminders that we have not forgotten them and that we care about them, but especially during the holidays, when many of us are going to be surrounded by loved ones, I would encourage you to support this cause.

A list of needed items, as well as detailed instructions on how to address and send packages, is available at www.anysoldier.com.

There, you will also find a history of the organization, a list of soldiers who will receive packages for “any soldier,” as well as guidelines for sending military mail.

If residential houses, student organizations, academic departments and local businesses were willing to sponsor the Any Soldier program, we could bring happiness to so many faces.

Please, students, as you’re planning your holiday, consider sending something to Any Soldier as part of your plans.

Julia Sweet

Graduate Student

English