Care packages trigger unexpected response from overseas

By: 
Dennis Mansfield, Contributing Writer

KALKASKA - One act of kindness led to another, with local scouts getting an unexpected “thank you” letter from an U.S. Army combat pilot currently overseas.

Terri Sibole, scout master for Kalkaska Boy Scout/Cub Scout Troop and Pack No. 629, said the local scouts were recently surprised when they received a thank you letter, American flag and certificate of appreciation from Chief Warrant Officer, Second Class Nathan Weirich, a 15-year veteran and pilot of a Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopter.

“We did it for the troops, not expecting anything in return except knowing that they would appreciate it,” Sibole said. “It was nice of him to go out of his way to thank us.”

And, Weirich said he had his reasons for reaching out to the youngsters after receiving the care packages.

“I have served three tours to Iraq and currently finishing my second tour in Afghanistan,” Weirich said in his note to the local troop. “The American flag was personally flown in my cockpit on multiple combat missions throughout Afghanistan.”

Originally from Tecumseh, near Ann Arbor, Weirich said the addresses on the care packages from the scouts caught his attention.

“A friend of mine used to be a teacher and coach in Kalkaska,” he said. “I wanted to say thank you for the time, effort and care that went into the packages your pack and troop send to us soldiers. It is truly an honor to serve Americans that still support our troops.

“Your packages bring smiles to young soldiers’ faces when they are away from home for long periods of time,” Weirich added. “I hope the flag and certificate are enjoyed by all and it’s just a small thank you for all the love and support you have shown my unit.”

According to Sibole, the local scouts helped prepare the care packages after being contacted by members of the Land-0-Lakes Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 8684 in Kalkaska.

Read the full story in our regular edition of The Review. To subscribe to the paper for just $34 a year, which includes access to our full online e-edition, please go to the subscription page on this website at: http://www.antrimreview.net/subscribe/

 

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