Hello, my name is First Sergeant Robert Palechek. I am a Marine with over 21 years of wearing the uniform. I recently received boxes from your organization and want to express my thanks for your service to us currently deployed. I know that all the items sent have already been distributed amongst Marines in my unit and enjoyed. Knowing you all keep us in your thoughts every day is both gratifying and heartwarming. I am stationed aboard Camp Pendleton and have been there since June 2006. I have spent a lot of time away from there since my arrival with this being the 3rd deployment. This deployment makes 6 trips supporting the War on Terror (1st to Afg) starting in Nov 2001. As of today, I am into my 10th week of my latest deployment. This deployment is a bit more challenging as compared to the past few I have done in Iraq. We have more austere conditions to put up with, but it is still not as bad as it could be. Our camp continues to grow and become more developed every day. We have a decent standard of living with 3 chowhalls that serve great meals, good living conditions, and access to the Internet. Now that mail is flowing in, we are situated rather well and can put up with the challenges of the next few months a lot easier. The boxes made it to me in perfect condition. Operation Shoebox appears to have been upholding a great tradition of service to us over here and it is appreciated beyond what you can imagine. I am constantly reminded that there is massive support for those of us who find themselves away from loved ones in executing their duty as a member of the armed forces. It is something that really reinforces the fact that we are not forgotten out here or our sacrifices are being taken for granted. I again want to personally thank the all those involved with Operation Shoebox for their efforts in getting this bit of love and support from home to us. Furthermore, I extend the gratitude and appreciation of all personnel presently deployed who benefit from receiving one of your care packag