THE STORY:
Some years ago, I sent a message through social media, thanking service members for their sacrifices and dedication to keeping me and my loved ones safe. Though never having a family member serve in the military, I just wanted to say “thanks.” Before this, my only connection to the military was my Father-in-Law (USMC-Retired: Korea) and a dear friend from High School (US ARMY-Retired:
Gulf War). A few days later, I received a message from a service member “in theatre” at JSOC (Joint Special Operations Command), Iraq. This person to whom I have never spoken said “Thank you for your kind words.” I was touched. I was absolutely tickled, first and foremost, that my message made it to Iraq. I quickly replied that if there was anything I could do to help, he should let me know. I volunteered to write letters to his elected-officials on his behalf; send cards and letters; and send food. He said, “Ma’am, if it’s not too much trouble, how about some beef jerky?”
“BEEF JERKY?!?!?” I responded, thinking I was being pranked by a friend.
“Yes, please!” he replied. “When we go out on patrol, we’re gone for hours at a time and we can take it with us, and it really tastes good!”
Now, truth be told, I have had lots of “jerk” food, but never had I tasted anything “jerky!” I went to Costco that day. I bought 3 of the largest bags I could find, shipped them and there began my relationship with US Service Members (37 men and 3 women) in Iraq. Over the months that followed, I shipped packages until I got word that my contact was KIA. I stopped sending packages (selfishly, I might add...) because I didn't want to to be hurt again by investing emotionally in other service members; and also, since I couldn't ship packages without a service member's name and I truly had no other contact to ship items, I stopped. On the anniversary of my late father’s birthday, I remembered his favorite saying and life mantra: “When you take care of the kings, you will live with the masses; but, when you take care of the masses, you will live with YOUR King!”
This inspired me to resume sending care packages and hence, with the aid of my niece, the birth of LOVE ONE BY ONE, INC. on July 7, 2014. It is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable donations for federal income tax purposes. The goal is to send care packages and touch the lives of as many single U.S. Service Members as possible, so that every one of them leaves "mail call" feeling our love...one by one!
-jacqui-
