LAKEPORT, Calif. — What began as a gesture to show support to a few friends deployed to Afghanistan in 2003, has become a 21 year community effort and has supported thousands of military personnel, Operation Tango Mike.

Operation Tango Mike translates from military jargon to Operation Thanks Much. Monthly, 90-100, and sometimes more, care packages are sent to troops in Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, Romania, aboard ships and in many other countries. On average, troops in at least 12 countries are among the recipients.

Military families are supported as well. Many volunteers that support Operation Tango Mike have volunteered their assistance with small home repairs, transportation and more.

With no base or military installation in the local area, folks who wish to support troops and their families gather via Operation Tango Mike. Military families are welcomed and are provided with emotional support, knowing that they and their loved ones are appreciated.

On the third Thursday of every month, volunteers gather at 6 p.m. at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th Street, Lakeport, to prepare care packages for deployed military personnel.

The annual exception comes every March, when Operation Tango Mike hosts an open house at 5 p.m. The community is invited to visit and become acquainted with what the group does, and longtime supporters are encouraged to join in the festivities.

Monthly shipping fees of more than $2000, and items for care packages, totaling an average of $3000, for a monthly expense of $5000, are all covered through donations and fundraising. No government funding is provided for shipping or goods.

“Forget politics, support our troops,” is the mantra that has helped ensure that all are welcomed and appreciated at Operation Tango Mike functions. The effort does not involve politics and exists to support our troops and their families.

Packing parties are family friendly and children are encouraged to participate. Every care package is decorated with stickers and artwork by “the world’s greatest decorating crew” of children.

Troops express appreciation in thank you messages that are sent to Operation Tango Mike.

G. Darby wrote, “Thank you so much for the care packages! My guys and I really enjoyed them. It's nice to know that what we do is still appreciated.”

The public is invited and encouraged to help celebrate and commemorate twenty years of community effort. To date, more than 26,000 care packages have been shipped.

On March 21, at 5 p.m., there will be an open house at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th Street, Lakeport. It will be an opportunity to pay a visit and learn more about Operation Tango Mike, read letters from troops, browse photos and get acquainted.

Delicious food will be served. Catering is generously being donated by Rosemary Martin of Rosey Cooks, LLC.

The regular monthly packing party will take place following the open house. You are invited to bring along any special treats, candies, correspondence or items you would like to include in care packages.

For further information or to add someone to the care package recipient list, please call 707-349-2838 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..