Greetings from the 1-161

[1-161 FA Wife]

Hello:
I am joining in to say hello but to see some assistance for the 1-161 FA. We have 436 soldiers from over 400 miles in the State of Kansas. We are seeking donations in reponse of Operation Home for the Holidays. I ask that you read the letter below and support our troops in coming home for the holidays. My husband is the commander of the 1-161 FA and it is key that we get all the soliders home from Bliss prior to their deployment. Our deadline to raise the funds for the Fuel only will be December 15, 2007.
You may also go to NGAKS.ORG – National Guard Association of Kansas,

Thank you for supporting our troops!

161st Field Artillery Regimental Association


“Taking Care of Our Own”

Dear Patriots:


The 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery Regiment will be mobilized to support Operation Iraqi Freedom on November 24, 2007 and report to Ft Bliss, TX on November 25, 2007. The Soldiers will be allowed to take block leave from December 23 through January 2, 2008. Our Soldiers are afforded the opportunity to return home to spend the Holidays with their families. The trip from Texas back to Kansas will be at the Soldiers’ expense. This will place a financial burden on many of our Soldiers.


The Regiment has established a fund for monetary donations to assist our Soldiers in getting home for the holidays. Current price quotes indicate the cost to each Soldier will be $120 for a round trip bus seat. Soldiers will receive financial assistance on a need basis in order to make sure that all Soldiers are able to leave Ft Bliss – if desired.


I ask for your assistance in supporting our Citizen Soldiers and their families who are already making enormous sacrifices for our nation. I assure you this trip will be as rewarding for the Soldiers as it is for those who contribute.


Donations may be made to:

161st Field Artillery Regimental Association
P.O. Box 19031
Topeka, KS 66619


Please call (785) 862-1066 if you have questions.


Thank you for your support of these great Americans.

Sincerely,




COL (Retired) Butch Dowse
Association Chairman