Dear Friend,
If you have ever been separated from your loved ones during the holidays -- as my family and I were by the conflict in Iraq in December 2007 -- you understand that many things can come between us and the people and places we love. Thousands of miles. Oceans. Armies.
This year, thousands of North Carolina military families are separated because of the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq -- not only families in our military communities, but also families of our Reserve and National Guard; husbands and wives and children all across North Carolina cities and towns, large and small. These families serve us at a time of increased anxiety here at home -- during this season of peace -- for conflicts we pray will end in security for our nation and stability for the people of the countries where they serve.
Few organizations do more to protect the interests of our North Carolina military families than Blue Star Families .
Through a worldwide network of service spouses, parents and children, Blue Star Families seeks to support, connect and empower those whose sacrifices are often overlooked when our soldiers deploy.
I also frequently get asked: How can I send care packages to our troops? What do they need? Where do I send them? Started by a soldier in Iraq, www.anysoldier.com has the answers -- directly from those who are serving.
Elizabeth and I encourage you to visit www.bluestarfam.org to learn about the issues most important to our service families and www.anysoldier.com to directly support those who are separated today by our nation's commitments.
North Carolinians fight for progress and, through that struggle, an eventual homecoming. Join my family as we pray for the safety of our military men and women and the reunion of their families -- our neighbors. Then, join us as we push onward for progress in this coming New Year.
Happy Holidays and God Bless,
Cal Cunningham
Candidate for U.S. Senate