I’m reaching out to make sure you saw the email Christopher sent this morning. Have you had a chance to sign the U.S. Air Force birthday card yet? We’re aiming for 77,000 signatures and we’re getting close.
I know it might seem like a small thing, but your words of support really do matter, especially on days like today. My brother is currently stationed far from home and deploying on urgent missions in defense of our nation. Knowing that folks back home are thinking of him and appreciating what he does means the world to him, and others like him.
By signing this card, you’re showing service members that their efforts are recognized and valued. Trust me, those kind thoughts and well-wishes can really lift their spirits.
Thank you,
Jamie Finfrock, USO
From: Christopher Plamp | USO
Sent: Monday, September 18, 2024
Subject: Honor our heroes on the U.S. Air Force's 77th birthday
USO Supporter, today the Air Force celebrates its 77th birthday, and we set a goal to collect 77,000 signatures and well-wishes for our brave airmen. But right now, we're coming up short, and I'm counting on you to help us reach our goal before this chance passes by.
I've seen firsthand the risks our airmen take and the sacrifices they — and their families — make on behalf of us all. Over the course of 25 years, including my deployments to Afghanistan, Kuwait and other locations in the Middle East, my family and I made those sacrifices too.
During one of those long deployments, my wife got this idea from another military spouse: Fill a jar with M&M'S to help our kids count down the days until my return. Every day, they'd get to eat one M&M — just one! — and by the time the jar was empty, I'd be home.
Then, my deployment was extended. The thought of disappointing our kids was heartbreaking. But in the middle of the night, my wife secretly added M&M'S to the jar, keeping it just filled enough so our little ones wouldn't lose hope. I don't know how she held it together for our kids for so long. But I do know that every military family has their own story of perseverance just like ours.
That's why it's so important to share these stories and honor the sacrifices made by so many airmen and their loved ones. Today, as we reflect on the Air Force's birthday, your words of encouragement, understanding and gratitude are even more powerful.
| SIGN NOW TO HONOR OUR HEROES |
Serving in the Air Force is a challenging and vital mission, but it's a source of great pride. We do it because families like yours and mine are worth every effort, and the support of the American people keeps us strong.
So please, will you take this opportunity to make today special for everyone in the Air Force?
Thank you for supporting our military heroes,
Christopher Plamp
Col., USAF (Ret.)
Chief Operating Officer, USO
United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO) is a nonprofit 501(ϲ)(3) organization (EIN/Tax ID: 13-1610451) and not part of the Department of Defense (DOD). The appearance of DOD visual information does not imply or constitute DOD endorsement.
Photos by Senior Airman Sean Campbell and courtesy of Col. Christopher Plamp.
