When Debbie Roedl sends a package to War Horse, Iraq, it’s addressed to the 334th Signal Company in care of her son, Army Capt. Ken Roedl.

“I can’t send ‘Tiger’ something without sending all of the soldiers in his company something,” Roedl said. “They are all there defending freedom, and I want them to know that I support them and appreciate what they are doing.”

Roedl has been sending packages to the troops for a long time and is now inviting others to join her in her efforts to show support and caring for the Pike County soldiers who are serving in Iraq.

“I’ve noticed signs in other nearby cities that encourage the support of the men and women of our military but around here, there just aren’t many that I’ve seen,” Roedl said. “I think it’s time for us to show our support for these men and women who put their lives on the line for all of us. Whether we support the war or not, we should support our military. They are doing the job that are asked to do and doing it very well.”

The packages that Roedl sends to the soldiers in Iraq are jam-packed with things from the soldiers’ wish list.

“Their wants are very small, things like Jolly Ranchers, Granola bars, sunflower seeds, jerky, writing supplies, crossword puzzle books and face wipes because the sand does a number on their facial skin,” Roedl said. “I just sent the 334th a box with popsicles – the kind that you freeze. A cool day over there is 100 degrees so a popsicles is a real treat.”

The cost of shipping a 20-pound package is about $25 and that’s not a bad price for all the pleasure it brings.

“Right now, I’m a mom on a mission,” Roedl said, with a smile. “I want to encourage the people of Pike County to join me in sending packages to those from our county who are serving in Iraq. We need to show them that they are in our thoughts and prayers and that they are appreciated.”

Roedl is asking the parents or spouses of those who are serving to contact her with their loved one’s name so she can compile a list of those to receive “Packages from Pike County.”

“I’ve already gotten permission from several places to be drop-off points for items for the packages,” she said. “The Pike County Road Department and the Pike County Bus Shop on Montgomery Street in Troy and Steed Tires in Brundidge have agreed to be drop-off spots. Once we have collected a good supply of items, the parents or spouses will be contacted and we’ll all get together and make up the packages. The parents or spouses will then mail the packages to their loved ones.”

Roedl said the holiday season is especially hard for those who are far from home and a package from home will mean a lot.

For more information, call Roedl at 334-484-9265 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.