INDIANAPOLIS (July 17, 2009) - The American Legion family is renewing its fundraising efforts to purchase comfort items for troops recovering in U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units around the world through its Operation Comfort Warriors campaign.
     "The government does a good job of providing the essentials," said American Legion National Commander David K. Rehbein. "Through Operation Comfort Warriors we have been able to provide items that usually don't appear in the budget, such as personal sweat suits, I-Pods, DVDs, phone calling cards and other comfort items. The American Legion family is challenging its members and friends to continue giving to those who have already given us so much. I am grateful that American Legion Auxiliary National President Desireé Stoy and Sons of The American Legion National Commander Tommie Cisna have given their complete support of this effort."
     The American Legion family has already raised nearly $165,000 for Operation Comfort Warriors since its inception in December. Donors can make online contributions by visiting www.legion.org/ocw or by sending a check to Operation Comfort Warriors, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Administrative and promotional costs for Operation Comfort Warriors are paid by The American Legion, allowing 100 percent of the donations to be spent directly on the troops.
     The American Legion plans to operate a donations booth at its 91st Annual National Convention in Louisville. Those who donate $10 or more at the booth will receive Operation Comfort Warrior pins. Departments of The American Legion will be able to present checks directly to National Commander Rehbein on the convention stage.
     With a current membership of 2.6-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.