Send items for children in Iraq

To the editor:Our Marines are asking for your donations, which will go a long way in winning the trust of future generations. Iraqi children have known nothing but war and heartache their entire lives. We hope this can help show them there is kindness in those they thought were the enemy. We can help develop trust and hope with the help of many caring Americans.

So we ask your help with Operation Barbie/Beanie/School Supplies. Many of you have sent packages to our deployed troops. We know that with your help we can again accomplish another great feat of true American spirit. The Marines are not asking for themselves, but for the children.

A unit is working with the youths in their area and have requested Barbie dolls and Beanie Babies to distribute to the children. These items make valuable communication tools. They also are looking for educational and fun coloring books, markers, colored pencils and other school supplies. Pencils that are patriotic are great. This is a perfect time to send Beanie Babies that you no longer can figure out what to do with. Send anything small from chalk to stickers. Crayons can't be sent after June 1, so send them now before the postage goes up and it is too hot.

Please send your items to: Operation Barbie/Beanies, c/o Susan Lackey, IIMEF FWD/HQ CO/S-3, Unit 73920, FPO AE 09509-3920. I ask that you pass this along to others with caring hearts. Please participate.

SUSAN LACKEY and ROSALIE YOUNG, Benton, Mo.