- Dennis Purcell
- Posted On
Operation Tango Mike seeks volunteers to help with mission of sending care packages overseas
In the military, “Tango Mike” is radio signaling jargon which means “Thanks much.” It is used as a sign-off phrase like the more familiar, “roger,” “copy that” or “over and out.”
Craven named her nonprofit Operation Tango Mike because the care packages send a “thanks much” message to our soldiers who are putting their lives on the line for us.
American soldiers overseas always appreciate correspondence from home; whether it’s in the form of cards, letters or care packages which contain snacks, toiletries or other useful and thoughtful items.
“If for only one day, their mood is lifted, I’m good with that,” Craven said.
Craven holds a “packing party” on the third Thursday of each month at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th St. in Lakeport. The next one is on March 15.
“We need helping hands. Give us an hour once a month. All ages attend the packing parties. Children are given the job of decorating the packages with colorful stickers. Kids are the world’s best decorators,” Craven said. “These kids will be the next generation of humanitarian volunteers.”
Since she began fifteen years ago, 20,000 care packages have been sent at a cost of about $43 per box.
To learn about fundraising events or how to make material or cash donations, Craven can be reached at 707-349-2838 or go online to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..