The Captain Meriwether Lewis chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army delivered more than 300 turkeys to Servicemembers on Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Camp Murray prior to Thanksgiving as part of "Operation Turkey Drop."
With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, the chapter is now turning its attention to delivering hams to Servicemembers as part of "Operation Ham Grenade" to bring cheer to young enlisted families on Christmas.
The chapter was able to deliver hams and small food baskets last year, but organizers are hoping to reach more Servicemembers this year.
"We're trying to support more brigades on JBLM, plus both Air Force wings and several other squadrons on McChord Field," said Carlene Joseph, chapter president.
Thanks to donations from churches, community groups and several local businesses, the chapter so far has been able to raise about $4,000 for the project. Joseph and some other chapter members are purchasing the hams from the Lakewood Walmart on Friday.
"Walmart gives us a killer deal," she said.
South Tacoma Auto Center and a local moving company are donating a truck each so the group can deliver the hams directly to JBLM that same day.
"The program has been really well received by all the installations," said Joseph, whose employer, Harborstone Credit Union, has made great contributions to the program through monetary and man-hour donations.
"It makes it a lot easier for me to do it," Joseph said.
Because of refrigeration issues, chapter officials would prefer to collect donations (versus hams) so they can make the one purchase.
"We appreciate everyone for their past support to the chapter and know that we're all here to give it all back to our Soldiers, Airmen and Marines on JBLM and Camp Murray," she said.
To make a donation to Operation Ham Grenade, call Joseph at (253) 312-9279 or email Carlene.Joseph@Harborstone.com.
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