Volunteers packed care packages for the troops at a lightning pace, putting together 60 in two hours. Photo by Ron Quick.

KELSEYVILLE – On July 31, 28 volunteers came together with one goal: They aimed to pack boxes containing food, snacks, hygiene items, entertainment and, most of all, love and support.

The volunteers supporting Operation Tango Mike packed 60 care packages for US troops in under two hours. The Riviera Hills Golf & Recreation Club played host to the packing party, offering use of the lounge facilities.

Riviera Hills manager and troop supporter Valerie Davison jumped in and worked at a fever pitch to help keep things running smoothly. Pogo's Pizza donated pizzas for the hungry workers and everyone left the evening satisfied they had done a good deed for our troops.

Among the volunteers were Paula Bryant, Denise Wilson and Mike Curran, all parents of deployed troops. Several siblings of those deployed troops were busy packing boxes as well.

The local Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter, the Women of the Clear Lake Riviera and the Lake County Sheriff's Office came out in force too.

Each box packed also includes handwritten correspondence in some form. That added touch helps to make the care package more personal for the military men and women on the receiving end.

If you have the time and inclination, consider writing notes or cards to be included. Surprisingly, correspondence, in any form, is the most requested item from the deployed troops. They do long to hear from folks back home.

Care packages are boxed and shipped monthly. Anyone wishing to learn more about Operation Tango Mike can do so by visiting the Web site at http://home.mchsi.com/~operationtangomike.

If you'd like to contribute goods they may be deposited at "drop zones" throughout Lake County, which are listed on the Web site.

If you would like to donate monies to help cover the shipping costs, which average $540 per month, donations can be cash or checks made payable to Operation Tango Mike. These can be mailed to P.O. Box 1313, Lakeport, CA 95453.

If you'd like to make a donation or desire more information, please contact Ginny Craven at 349-2838 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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Coast Guard veteran Ed Moore was one of those volunteering their time to show troops some care. Photo by Ron Quick.

Members of the Lake County Sheriff's Office came out to help the effort. Photo by Ron Quick.