Members of the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 81, are reaching out to soldiers overseas.

They recently implemented “Packages to War” program, for which they send care packages containing personal need items, snacks, an American flag and a hand written letter of thanks to active military service men and women in the combat zone.

“We just started this and (we will continue it) as long as we can get names from those in Butler County,” said Lois Cool, Auxiliary member.

Packages are currently being sent to Iraq, Afghanistan and ships in the Persian Gulf.

“We’ve already sent eight boxes,” she said.

They send such things as wipes, powder, lotion, nail clippers, licorice and Readers Digest, among other items.

They began the program about two months ago when someone they knew had a nephew and was sending him boxes. They decided to do it for others.

They are taking donations of items and financial donations, which are tax deductible.

“We have had very good luck with donations,” Cool said, “and the boys appreciate it so much.”

Anyone who has a name and address of a soldier from Butler County is asked to submit them to the auxiliary. They will need the name, APO and/or FPO address. The information can be mailed to The Captain Edgar Dale Post 81 American Legion, 1801 W. Central Ave., El Dorado, KS 67042, Attn: “Packages to War” committee. They also ask for the name and address of the local contact person for verification.

“As soon as we get the names, we’ve got the boxes ready,” Cool said.

She said once those are sent, they start preparing more boxes.