Local soldier needs care packages sent to Iraq

By Carrie A. Mizell

Soldiers like Quentin James Brown, who is currently fighting in Iraq, need to know that their loved ones back home are thinking about them.
Words of encouragement by way of cards and letters are always appreciated, but as the former Spring Ridge volunteer firefighter explained to his family, care packages containing simple items like shaving cream, cookies, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and hard candy are desperately needed by U.S. troops serving in the Middle East.

Brown is currently serving his second tour of duty in the Middle East. At 25-years-old the Santa Fe High School graduate has literally seen the world.
In October, Brown will return home for two weeks before being shipped out once again to Afghanistan.
While serving in a combat zone is unthinkable for many Americans, it is a reality that Brown and many other soldiers wake up to each morning. A package from home truly means the world to these soldiers.
The community is asked to drop off care packages for Brown, who is a member of the 124th Infantry out of Fort Benning, Georgia, at the Spring Ridge Volunteer Fire Department’s next pancake breakfast, which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Any and all donations are appreciated.
According to Quentin’s brother, Justin Brown, many items are needed in Iraq including: international phone cards, sunblock, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, unscented wet wipes, hard candy or gum (no chocolate), toothpaste, toothbrush, beef jerky, sunflower seeds, homemade or store bought cookies (oatmeal, peanut butter or sugar), baby powder or foot powder, shaving cream and razors, note pads and pencils or pens, and small juice boxes.