LOGISTICS SUPPORT AREA ANACONDA, Iraq — Since 1872, Shriners, best-known for their red fez headgear and hospitals for children, have been reaching out to people in need. Several Soldiers and civilians who are also Shriners are continuing in the fraternity's tradition of selfless service by reaching out to wounded Soldiers even while busy serving in Iraq.
Shriners donated nearly $1,000 worth of clothing for wounded service members at the Air Force Theater Hospital July 6.
Several camp residents were recently inducted into the fraternity and part of that induction required a service project. The inductees met with hospital personnel and identified the need for clothing for wounded troops recovering at the hospital said Lt. Col. Russell D. Rogers, chief of Army Reserve Affairs for the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). Rogers became a Shriner while serving.
"When someone needs a helping hand, we can be there to aid and support them. Our overall goal is not to just help at the hospital, but to reach out throughout Camp Anaconda, helping lift the spirits of any service member or civilian," said Kenneth Gardner, a civilian working here and retired Soldier.
Even though Soldiers and civilians at the camp work long hours and have many responsibilities, taking time to help others is a vital part of contributing to the community, which for these Shriners is LSA Anaconda, said Rogers.
"Maybe our actions can bring a smile and help to lift (wounded Soldiers) spirits," Gardner said. "Our organization receives satisfaction just knowing that we did something for someone that at this time, they could not do for themselves. I once was a Soldier and know that when you are deployed it is hard on you and your family, so what we want to do is be that second family for that service member."
Shriners here also donated an organ to a chapel at LSA Anaconda and Rogers said he and his fellow Shriners plan to extend outreach programs to third country nationals and local Iraqis too. There are even plans for a free raffle during the winter holiday season with prizes for service members.