T-Shirts for Troops

The Kids at Lincoln School Are Our Heroes

2011-06-09T20:30:00.008-04:00

The students at Lincoln Elementary School in Nutley, NJ followed the lead of the Nutley Firefighters and we are so proud of these kids!!! Lincoln school parent and Nutley firefighter John Redstone acted quickly when he found out that a Lincoln School alumni was headed to Afghanistan with the Third Battalion 14th Marine Regiment.

Firefighter John Redstone, who headed up the T-shirts for Troops program in the Nutley Fire Department, rallied the Lincoln School community and began to sell some t-shirts. Brownie Troop 53 also got involved and is putting together packages and letters for the Troops. The shirt sports the Third Battalion 14th Marine Regiment unit emblem on the back and the Lincoln school logo on the front.

The Marines were invited to the school by Principal Lorraine Restel, to present them with the T-shirts for their Regiment. The school presented the soldiers with over 175 T-shirts! These kids are wonderful!

The Redstone family, the students, and teachers at Lincoln School in Nutley have made our town proud! "Safe journey" to the Marines headed to Afghanistan.

Nutley School Supports T-Shirts for Troops

2011-06-06T22:22:00.000-04:00

Shirts Sent

2011-03-04T17:16:00.001-05:00

Here are some of the support out Troops have gotten in the past year or two .....

The 504th and the FMBA

2009-10-17T18:35:00.003-04:00

Just got some pictures from 1st Sergeant Quion Hall ... a long time friend of Tshirts-for-troops.

1st Sergeant Hall is finishing up his second tour of duty in Iraq.

He says .... "These pics are from a marathon that my unit participated in over here and we wore our T-Shirts as our official uniform. We do not get to "dress down" too often but the shirts do provide some sort of relief from the dull ACUs and regulate PT shirts."

We are anxiously awaiting the safe return of all the 504th!

Update on T-Shirts for Troops

2009-04-06T17:28:00.000-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops is going strong and would like to give an update on whats been happening and to say thank you to the NJ FMBA for the honor of being recognized at the 2009 Valor Awards.

Blowing Off the Cobwebs

2009-03-15T17:40:00.003-04:00

Captain Moore blew the cobwebs off his uniform in preparation for the 2009 New Jersey FBMA Valor Awards Dinner which will be held April 25, 2009. Governor Corzine is expected to be in attendance that evening as well and the event is expected to once again sell out with over 1000 in attendance. "T-shirts for Troops" is thrilled by this honor.

T-Shirt Update

2009-03-15T17:32:00.007-04:00

Just the other day we asked our friend and printer Scott Zabelski, of Blue Wave Printing if he could give us a rough estimate of the number of T-shirts he has printed for "T-Shirt for Troops" since the program started. We received the following email back.

Hey Kevin,

I have some big news....the total amount of shirts that we have printed for the T-shirts for Troops movement is......23,500 !!! That number includes shirts that went overseas and the shirts that were sold throughout NJ and PA.

I wasn't expecting it to be that many. It's a crazy number to see. But I'll let you know if any more are purchased in the next month so you can have the most accurate number.

Thanks again for everything. It's been a great thing to be apart of.

Scott

Thats translates to sending over 17,000 T-shirts to Troops! What great support from the New Jersey FBMA!

Greetings from Kyrgyzstan!

2009-03-15T17:24:00.003-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops received this email the other day! We had to look up exactly where Kyrgyzstan was!

Capt. Moore,

Greetings from Kyrgyzstan!
As we are enroute to our final destinations in Afghanistan, I once again look forward to handing out the T-shirts so graciously donated to us by you and your organization!

I'm waiting until we arrive and get setup, but the current concept is to hold a open run where participants are given the T-shirts after the event.

It would likely be a spiritual fitness type run with a brief reminder that we need to work-out our spiritual side as well.

In any case, thank you and I'll certainly be taking and sending a few snapshots!

Blessings,

Troy

Chaplain (Captain) Troy Morken
Battalion Chaplain
3-509th Infantry Battalion (Airborne)
Afghanistan

2009 New Jersey FMBA Valor Awards

2009-03-03T11:13:00.008-05:00

Kevin, Scott and I were surprised and humbled when we were notified about the honor of being recognized at 2009 New Jersey FMBA Valor Awards. When we read the definition of "valor", we felt a swell of pride.

"Once a year the New Jersey State
Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association
takes time to recognize and honor select individuals
whom have given and taken their responsibility
to protect the life and property of their fellow man
to an extraordinary level..."

Sgt. Andrew Brown 1/509th Airborne Infantry
Killed in Action Iraq 08 Oct 04

"Valor" is the exact word that we would define the sacrifice made by Sgt. Andrew Brown. The life and valor of Sgt Andy Brown were the reasons for getting T-Shirts for Troops off the ground.

"Everyday the dedicated members of the fire service
risk their lives
to protect the property and well being
of the citizens of the community
they serve.
They selflessly brave untenable conditions that few would dare to endure."

Captain Kevin Moore & Scott Zabelski, Blue Wave Printing

Captain Kevin Moore, retired from North Hudson Regional Fire & Recuse will be honored with the 2009 Brotherhood Award. He was nominated by North Hudson Regional Local 26. Peggy Dreker and our friend and printer, Scott Zabelski were nominated by Trenton Locals & 206 for the Humantarian Award.

The true honor of this award goes to the members of the New Jersey FMBA who continue to support the Troops everyday.

SSG Alvarado Representing NJ Firefighters in Iraq

2009-02-19T10:29:00.006-05:00

North Hudson firefighters Mike Alvardo (2nd from right)
with his crew from Engine Co. 5
on his last tour before returning to Iraq.
L-R Tom Kross, Terrence Shevlin, Alvardo, Cpt. Lenny Calvo

T-Shirts for Troops was thrilled to hear from North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue firefighter Michael Alvarado. Mike works out of Station 5. Michael is serving with the New Jersey National Guard. He is currently deployed to Baghdad, Iraq with the 50th Special Troops Battalion. Best wishes Mike and your fellow brothers of the the NJ FMBA are behind you!

New Jersey National Guard’s 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion

2009-02-03T09:05:00.001-05:00

New Jersey A Co 1-150th Avn

2009-01-27T19:14:00.008-05:00

The Trenton FBMA is at it again as they distributed shirts to the New Jersey Air National Guard deploying to Iraq.

The New Jersey Air National Guard consists of over 9,000 Guardsmen from New Jersey. The NJ Air National Guard is governed through the NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. On the home front, the Guard is responsible for Homeland Security tasks in New Jersey.

The New Jersey Air Guard has flown over 17,000 hours in the Middle East during ongoing operations for the Global War on Terrorism.

Paul Palombi and the Trenton Local 6 & 206 distributed shirts at the New Jersey National Armory in Ewing, NJ. WZBN TV -25 Trenton was on the scene to catch the distribution. Check it out here!

Thanks to Paul and his fellow firefighters for there continued support of T-Shirt for Troops.

Bridgeton Firefighters & the River Rats

2009-01-10T21:07:00.011-05:00

Bridgeton firefighters, NJ FMBA Local 52, is selling T-shirts recognizing the efforts of US Navy Riverine Squadron 1 (RIVRON aka The River Rats). This is the unit of 21 year old Rosenhayn resident John H. Fallick, Jr.Fallik is a member of Rosenhayn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company.

Fallik and his Unit started their second tour in Iraq in November 2008. The "River Rats" patrol rivers and canals through Iraq. A gunner's mate in the Unit, Fallik's duties include operation and maintenance of guided missile launching systems, gun mounts and other ordnance equipment, as well as small arms and magazines.

The T-shirt features the FMBA Local 52 patch on the left breast. The River Rats logo will appear on the back. If you are interested in supporting the T-shirt sales please call the firehouse at (856) 451-2099.

Thanks Bridgeton for your support of the River Rats and T-shirts for Troops.

And Whats Going On Now....

2009-01-10T20:43:00.005-05:00

"T-Shirts for Troops" is continuing to help support the Troops with the help of the NJ FMBA. Some current projects by our brother firefighters

- Paul Palombi is currently printing shirts for the "Hooligans" and the "Black Sheep" two units currently serving in Iraq.

- 75 T-shirts are being sent to Chaplain Ed Jackson from the 509th, currently in Alaska. He will be sending them on to his troops in Afghanistan.

- The Firefighters in New Brunswick sent 400 shirts to the 812th Military Police.

- The Morristown firefighters are still selling shirts check out the webpage.

- Rahway firefighters are developing T-shirts to send to the Troops.

- Firefighter Juan Barroso of the Kearny Fire Department is now raising funds to send T-shirt to his brothers unit will soon deploy to Iraq.

Please let us know if your Local is getting involved. We would love to post some pictures or any helpful information. Just drop us an email.

Pay it Forward

2009-01-10T20:11:00.010-05:00

Paul Palombi and Brian McGorty have both made wonderful contributions to the T-Shirts for Troops program. The generosity of these two NJ FMBA members is not surprising.

They answered the call when hurricane Katrina hit by sending massive contributions to Save the Children and by sending truckloads of food to the storm torn area. They also spend weeks coordinating and building a handicapped accessible playground for the children of Bay Saint Louis in Mississippi.

NJ FMBA members Bill Lavin, Paul Palombi and Brian McGorty

greeted by kindergartners in Bay St Louis, MS.

When I told Brian and Paul we needed some funding to send T-shirts to Quion Hall's new unit, the 504th, they volunteered to help me out. So shortly, 175 t-shirts will be send to First Sergeant Quion Hall and his troops of the 504th!

The spirit of cooperation between NJ FMBA locals, to support the Troops, is what makes the "T-Shirts for Troops" program so successful.

The Bravest McGorty and the Finest McGorty Combine Forces

2009-01-10T18:29:00.014-05:00

What happens when North Hudson Captain Brian McGorty and his brother Weehawken Police Chief Tom McGorty combined forces for a good cause?

Danny Minervini, Tom's son and Brian's nephew, and his fellow sailors on the San Jancinto would soon find out! Brian wanted to be able to present the sailors on Danny's ship, the San Jancinto CG-56, with FMBA t-shirts when they pulled into their home port in Norfolk,Virginia from their recent deployment.

In order to carry out its mission, San Jacinto is equipped with the most advanced naval weapons system in the world. AEGIS, a computerized, quick reaction, air defense system, provides extraordinary capabilities against attacking aircraft and missiles. The heart of the AEGIS system is the SPY-1A radar, which automatically detects and tracks virtually everything flying out to and beyond 200 miles.

San Jacinto also has the most advanced underwater surveillance system available today. Our trio of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) equipment consists of a hull-mounted SONAR, an acoustic array SONAR, which is towed like a tail behind the ship, and helicopters that can fly out to locate ships or submarines over 100 miles away.

San Jacinto's Vertical Launching System can launch both long range surface-to-surface Tomahawk cruise missiles, rocket thrown torpedoes, and the Standard Surface-to-Air Missile. Two 5" gun mounts are used against threatening ships and boats or to bombard shore targets, and also against threatening aircraft.

Paul Palombi from Trenton, stepped in and offered some funds from his successful t-shirt sales to help fund the shirts for Brian's nephew. Brian sold some shirts to his fellow firefighters in North Hudson Fire and Rescue and.....

Danny Minervini and the sailors from the San Jancinto were greeted on the dock by a welcoming crew representing North Hudson Fire and Rescue and Weehawken Police Department.

Danny Minervini, Capt. Brian McGorty, Ship Commander,

Mrs. Tom McCorty and Weehawken Chief Tom McGorty

Another Old Friend Returns to Iraq

2009-01-10T17:43:00.005-05:00

Chaplain Pete Keough and Kevin Moore at Ft Polk, LA

Chaplain Peter Keough returned back to Iraq with the 54th Engineering Battalion. Chaplain Keough had been with the 519th Vipers. Back in 2006, North Hudson Fire & Rescue had sent the Vipers over 1,000 shirts.

Recently the 54th Engineering Battalion, Chaplain Keough's new Unit, received NJ FMBA shirts. The shirts were funded by sales made by Paul Polumbi of Trenton FMBA and Brian McGorty of North Hudson FMBA.

Chaplain Keough sent the follow email,

So, its is my sincerest apologies for not writing sooner to
thank you for the constant,
incredible support you have given me
and my wonderful soldiers.
They are thrilled to get the shirts and
are wearing them at PT,
around the living area, etc.

We planned on taking a Unit picture this morning
but things have caused us to shift a few days.
We suffered our second causality so we are busy with
memorial preparations and caring for the Soldier's company.

I am sure, when the dust settles
and God mends our hearts through this one,
we will be sure to get a group picture.
Also my Battalion Commander will be writing you a personal note of thanks
in the near future and we will be sending that out to you soon.

Please know there is not a day that goes by that I am not reminded
to give thanks for all you have done on our behalf.
It is an honor to call you friend and brother;
an honor to serve this nation
for people like you and Paul, and the Brown Family.

God Bless,
Pete

That's why "T-Shirts for Troops is so important!

Checking in with Old Friends

2009-01-10T17:15:00.003-05:00

Our old friend Quion Hall returned home safely from Iraq along with members of his 1st Cavalry Unit. I had an opportunity to visit with Quion and his family at Fort Hood, Texas.

Quion had recently found out that he received a well deserved promotion. He was promoted to First Sergeant with the 504th. The bad thing, he would have to return to Iraq after just a few months home with his family. Hats off to his lovely wife Caprice for handling things on the home front.

You Have to Be Kidding Me!

2009-01-10T15:08:00.005-05:00

The hands down winner of the "You Have to Be Kidding Me" award goes to Paul Palombi and Trenton FMBA Locals 6 & 206, Hamilton FMBA Locals 84 & 284. The efforts of these departments, organized by Paul Palombi and James D'Errico has been just amazing!

The goal of these locals was to see that every soldier in the New Jersey Army National Guard unit based at Fort Dix, and being deployed in June, would leave with a New Jersey FMBA T-shirt. That is over 3,000 shirts that needed to be funded!

The effort went far beyond that objective. The firefighters sent over 3,200 T-shirts to the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team from New Jersey.

If that wasn't already enough to stand up and cheer, the firefighters also sent 100 T-shirts to the Air National Guard, Special Op's Flight Unit, 227 SOF, out of McGuire Air Force Base.

Maria and Paul Palombi with members of the NJ Air
National Guard wearing NJ FMBA t-shirts as they load one
of the planes that they will deploy

Firefighter Paul Palombi with Lt. Col Kerry Gentry, Commander
and Master Sargeant Lisa Sylvester of the NJ Air Guard.

Thanks to Paul and all his men for the unending support of "T-Shirts for Troops!"

A Tango Battery Update

2009-01-10T14:35:00.007-05:00

One of the greatest stories all year about folks supporting "T-Shirts for Troops" occurred when we were contacted by Evelyn Rivera. See the original story below

Evelyn, told us about her son, Ricky Santiago, a Marine with Tango Battery, stationed in Iraq. Evelyn works in the front office at Franklin School in Newark, the same grammar school Ricky graduated from in 1992!

The Principal, Susan Taylor and the staff at Franklin School wanted to get involved. They started the sales of the T-shirts, with the logo for Ricky's Marine Unit, Tango Battery. Sales just took off and the staff was allowed to wear the shirts every Thursday during the month.

The Marines of Tango Battery sent these pictures back to the Staff and Students at Franklin School.

Ricky Santiago has since returned safely from Iraq and has re-enlisted. Thanks to the wonderful staff at Franklin School in Newark, NJ for supporting "T-Shirts for Troops."

Brotherhood Has No Boundaries

2009-01-10T14:06:00.009-05:00

This summer 3,000 New Jersey National Guard soldiers deployed for Iraq for the next year. The deployment, which involved nearly half of the State's guard members, was the largest in New Jersey National Guard history. Many of those were public safety workers who continue the tradition of service in Iraq.

North Hudson Firefighter Mike Alvarado was one of those deployed. Over 100 firefighters threw a party for Alvarado and T-shirts were made with the colors of Alvarado's unit, the National Guard 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, printed on the back.

The front of the T-shirt included a Maltese cross for North Hudson Engine Company 5, which is Alvarado's company in Union City. The words "Brotherhood has no Boundaries" is included above the cross.

All Group 1 firefighters, on duty on May 21st, Alvarado's last working day, were permitted to wear the army colored T-shirt. Firefighters also held a barbecue in his honor at Fire Headquarters.

North Hudson firefighters Mike Alvardo (2nd from right)
with his crew from Engine Co. 5 on his last tour
before returning to Iraq.
L-R Tom Kross, Terrence Shevlin, Alvardo, Cpt. Lenny Calvo

Thanks to Ron Jeffers for some great pictures!

Memorial Day Tribute

2009-01-10T13:08:00.005-05:00

The large American flag, contrasted against the beautiful blue sky just about says it all.

On May 26, 2008, Memorial Day, the flag, which was sent to me from RP1 Alan Grow of the SeaBees serving in Iraq, was raised in the center of town in Pleasant Mount, PA. Pleasant Mount is a small town of under 4,500 people.

The flag was raised in honor of my 22 year old nephew, Army Sgt. Andrew Brown. Andy died in Baghdad, Iraq on October 8, 2004. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 509th Infantry, Fort Polk, Louisiana.

The flag, sent from the Troops to say "thanks remembering us with T-shirts", will fly proudly in Pleasant Mount on Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Independence Day.

Hamilton & Trenton FMBA - Just Unbelievable!

2008-03-21T22:32:00.007-04:00

Trenton Locals 6 & 206, Hamilton Locals 84 & 284 FMBA have combined forces and the results are just unbelievable!

Paul Palombi told us at T-shirts for Troops that the Locals had sold over 500 shirts in the first week and another 125 to date. The Locals realized they had the support of the community and have just order 500 more t-shirts! That would be a sale of 1175 t-shirts!!!! That is just amazing.

The T-shirts are going to the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. The combat team, a New Jersey Army National Guard unit based at Fort Dix, is scheduled to deploy more than 3,000 members in June for arrival in Iraq in September. The FMBA Locals of Trenton and Hamilton want to be sure each solider will have an FBMA t-shirt packed in their bags.

The Trenton Times recently did a wonderful story about the great efforts shown by these FMBA members!

The shirts can be purchased from any career firefighter in Hamilton, or by seeing the career staff at Hamilton's Station 18 (Colonial Fire Co), or by calling them at 609.586.5454. In Trenton you can call city firefighter Ron Hubscher at 609.575.8138 or Paul Palombi at 609.209.1988.

We will keep you updated on this amazing effort when communities work together to support the Troops from New Jersey.

Everyone is Getting Involved.....Even Franklin School in Newark, NJ

2008-03-21T21:46:00.008-04:00

Franklin School, in Newark, NJ is currently the first school in the State (beside College of New Jersey) to get involved in T-Shirts for Troops and we are thrilled to have them!

The effort led by principal Susan M. Taylor has the entire school involved.

Ms. Taylor approached T-shirts for Troops after learning that the school's long time secretary, Evelyn Rivera, has a son, Ricky who was currently serving in Iraq with the United States Marines. Evelyn shared with us that her son, Ricky was a graduate of Franklin School himself. How appropriate that the school would now adopt Ricky and his men!

Evelyn, Ricky's Mom sent us the following email:

Thank you for doing this for Ricky and the guys out there in Iraq.
Ricky has been in Iraq since January
and is scheduled to return in August.
He is serving in "Tango Battery"
5th Battalion, 11th Marines.
Ricky has about 150 guys in his Unit.

Ricky was born in Belleville, NJ and raised in Newark.
He attended Franklin School from K to 6th grade
and then went to Ridge St. School
and after that Barringer High,
but finished his 4th year at the High School Redirection in Newark.
Ricky always said he wanted to join the Marines
and that is just what he did right after graduation.

By the way he just re-enlisted yesterday in Iraq
and this will be his 3rd term with the Marines.

I am proud of my son
and all of his friends and teachers
at Franklin School
including Mrs. Taylor
and praying that all of them out there will come home safe.
Thank you again.

So, Ms. Taylor and Franklin School worked with our printer, Scott at Blue Wave Printing, and designed a t-shirt that Sgt Ricardo R. Santiago and his fellow Marines will be proud to wear.

The T-shirts are currently being sold to members of the Franklin School Staff and soon the members of "Tango Battery" will be wearing their new t-shirts thanks to the support of one Marines' Mom and his grammar school in Newark, NJ.

We will be sure to keep you updated on this wonderful story!

Pastor and Commander

2008-03-21T21:29:00.004-04:00

Fr. Sean O'Brien, a friend and supporter of T-shirts for Troops since its humble beginnings, was recently promoted to the rank of Commander. Fr. Sean, currently the pastor at Christ Our Light in Pulaski, New York has been a friend of the project and of ours!

Fr. Sean returned from his second tour in September 2007. He had previously served in Iraq where he traveled from ship to ship in the Fifth Fleet based Bahrain providing spiritual support for servicemen and women stationed there in 2002 and 2003. In March 2007 he was summoned to duty once again, this time to Afghanistan. Fr. Sean served at Bagram Air Force based in Afghanistan. He returned home in September 2007.

You can scroll down the blog to see some pictures of Fr. Sean and the US firefighters currently serving in Afghanistan.

Fr. Sean distributed hundreds of T-shirts for us during his deployment. He delivered shirts to the troops in remote out posts of Afghanistan to the soldiers who really could use the support.

Congratulations and best wishes to Fr.Sean on his promotion.

In the Works

2008-03-21T21:10:00.004-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops has been very busy over the past two months and many groups have projects in the works.

Dom at Engine 5 of the Paterson, NJ Fire Department and his fellow firefighters are working on a shirt to send to a fellow brother, from Engine 5,who is being deployed to Iraq shortly. Be sure to keep us updated on your progress!

The sailors of the San Jacinto CG-56 will soon be receiving shirts from T-Shirts for Troops. The USS San Jacinto is the tenth ship in the Ticonderoga class. The homeport of the ship is Norfolk, Va. The NJ FBMA is working with T-shirts for Troops to get the sailors the t-shirts!

We will keep you posted on the hard work of all the NJ firefighters working to support the Troops!

SECNAV visits 30th NCR & receives a gift

2008-01-21T14:08:00.001-05:00

The Secretary of the United States Navy, Donald C. Winter, visited the SeaBees in Iraq.

The Secretary of the Navy visited Camp Fallujah for a visit during the Thanksgiving season. He was presented a gift by the SeaBees!

Imagine our surprise......

The Secretary of the United States Navy was presented a NJ FMBA t-shirt!

Desert Buzz

2008-01-21T13:44:00.001-05:00

We saw an article in the December 2007 issue of the "Desert Buzz". The Desert Buzz is an online publication of the 30th Naval Construction Regiment, designed to keep family members informed of the SeaBees activities.

The New Jersey FMBA made the December 2007 issue!

Blue Wave

2008-01-21T13:02:00.002-05:00

Best wishes to our friend & reliable "t-shirt printer" Scott Zabelski. Scott recently opened his own shop, Blue Wave Printing. He can be reached at 732-793-2662 or Bluewaveprinting@yahoo.com.

Without Scott and his crew, T-shirts for Troops would have never been possible. His suggestions for design, his cooperation in printing and his patience with unsure customers have made Scott a most valuable part of this program!

So cheers Scott and best wishes to Blue Wave Printing!!

And The Winner Is......

2008-01-21T12:16:00.002-05:00

The results are in and......

Alan humbly notified us with the following email on January 11, 2008.

Hi there,
Today I was awarded
the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
for being selected as the
Fleet Forces Command
Religious Program Specialist of the Year.

I thought you would enjoy a few pictures from today.

Our heartfelt congratulations to RP1 Alan Grown of the 30NCR serving with the Seabees in Iraq. Alan was named the RP (Religious Program Specialist) of the entire Navy.

After dealing with Alan for the past few months we can understand how this dedicated and faithful man was chosen for this high honor.

Alan, all the best to you!

Congratulations for Being Nominated

2008-01-21T11:48:00.001-05:00

We received the following email from RP Alan Grow of the 30 NCR, Seabees:

Well everyone I thought I would keep in the loop
of whats going on with me.
Here are the results from the RP of the Year for Fleet Forces
Command.

Here soon we should find out if I am selected for
RP of the Year
for the entire Navy.

I hope everyone is doing great and
I hope you have a
Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.

RP1 (FMF) Alan Grow
30 NCR Main Body
FPO AP 96601-1701

Alan was notified with the following message:

DEC 07
ZYB PSN 818204K23 FM COMUSFLTFORCOM NORFOLK VA//
N01//

TO ALFLTFORCOM INFO RHMFIUU/CNO WASHINGTON DC//
N097 // BT UNCLAS MSGID/GENADMIN,USMTF,2007/

COMUSFLTFORCOM NORFOLK VA//

SUBJ/U.S. FLEET FORCES COMMAND OUTSTANDING RP OF THE YEAR RESULTS// REF/A/ MSGID:RP OF YEAR PROGRAM/

CHIEFOFCHAPLAINSINST 1650.27A/-//

POC/RPCM(SW) J. THOMAS/FLEET RP/
UNIT:US FLEET FORCES COMMAND /
NAME:NORFOLK VA/TEL:757-836-5504//

GENTEXT/REMARKS/

1. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR RELIGIOUS PROGRAM SPECIALISTS (RP) SERVING IN U.S. FLEET FORCES COMMAND WHO PROVIDE OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO OUR FLEET AND WHO WERE NOMINATED FOR THIS HONOR.

2. THE SELECTEES FOR U.S. FLEET FORCES COMMAND FY 07 OUTSTANDING RP OF THE YEAR ARE RP1(FMF) ALAN GROW OF THIRTIETH NAVAL CONSTRUCTION REGIMENT WHO WAS SELECTED AS THE SENIOR SHORE OUTSTANDING RP OF THE YEAR AND RP3 ADONIS ALBIA OF THE OPERATIONAL MINISTRY CENTER NORFOLK WHO WAS SELECTED AS THE JUNIOR SEA OUTSTANDING RP OF THE YEAR.

PAGE 02 RUCBCLF7903 UNCLAS RP1(FMF) GROW IS CURRENTLY FORWARD DEPLOYED IN IRAQ AND RP3 ALBIA IS CURRENTLY DEPLOYED IN USS SAN JACINTO (CG 56).

3. CONGRATULATIONS TO RP1(FMF) GROW AND RP3 ALBIA FOR THEIR SUPERB CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE NAVY MISSION AND OUTSTANDING PROVISION OF QUALITY RELIGIOUS MINISTRY SUPPORT.

// BT #7903 NNNN

Franklin Township FMBA Local #88

2008-01-21T11:17:00.001-05:00

Jeanne Campbell and Members of Local #88 and the Franklin Township Police Department, Somerset County, have done an outstanding job of running the T-shirts for Troops program in their towns!

Jeanne and Local #88 members and the Franklin Police Department combined efforts sent over 200 T-shirts to the 30NCR Naval Construction Regiment Seabees.

In return, Jeanne and the FMBA have established a wonderful relationship with the Seabees currently serving in Iraq. Jeanne has been emailing RP1 (FMF) Alan Grow, a wonderful contact person for the Seabees.

RP1 Alan Grow sent the following picture of the Seabees wearing the T-shirts.

Congratulations to Jeanne Campbell and Local #88. It's so obvious your hard work and support is greatly appreciated!

VFW Post 1765 of Clifton

2008-01-21T11:03:00.001-05:00

VFW Post 1765 of Clifton received some pictures back from the Troops who received their great looking "Sledgehammer" t-shirts. The shirts were sent to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team ID.

The shirts were very well received by the Troops. The accompanying email read:

We would like to thank the VFW for the shirts.

Could you send me their e mail address.
Me and the commander want to thank them
personally for the shirts and their support.
1SG Keel

They Like Them, They Really Like Them!

2007-11-10T14:00:00.001-05:00

T-shirts for Troops had six Seabees t-shirts that it sent to RP1 (FMF) Alan B. Grow of the 30th NCR Religious Ministry Team at Camp Fallajuah. These shirts were just a preview of the 200 shirts that the Franklin Township First Responders were sending for the Seabees.

Well imagine our surprise when we received the following email from PR1 Alan Grow of the Religious Ministry Team. This is Alan's third tour in Iraq. He wrote:

We got the first box in today and as soon as I opened it

you thought gold fell out!

I thought I was going to need to have body guards!

The Seabees loved the T-shirts.

Thank you for all the support

and tell the

New Jersey Fire fighters thank you for us!

It is an honor to serve you.

I will make sure when the next box comes in to get

some pictures taken

so we can get them out to you.

We have a softball tournament coming up

& if they come in in time

we will wear them.

We are sure Jeanne Campbell and the Franklin Township First Responders will be hearing from RP1 Alan Grow and his Seabees!

Franklin Township First Responders

2007-11-10T13:50:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Jeanne Campbell and the First Responders of Franklin Township, 200 T-shirts were mailed to the 30NCR just this week.

The 30NCR Thirtieth Naval Construction Regiment Seabees are an integral part of the Naval Construction Force and provide valuable construction support to Navy and Marine Corps units. The Naval Construction Force is an integrated force of both active and reserve units.

The current contact for the 30NCR is PR1 (FMF) Alan Grow of the Religious Ministry Team. This is Alan's third tour in Iraq.

Jeanne has done an amazing job selling shirts and we look forward to hearing from these Seabees shortly!

Thanks to the Chaplain Lt Commander Ron Cooley

2007-11-10T13:33:00.001-05:00

T-shirts for Troops would like to thank Chaplain Lt. Commander Ron Cooley of the 30NCR Religious Ministry Team at Camp Fallujah for all the pictures he was able to send back of his Troops wearing their T-shirts. Chaplain Cooley is a great supporter of the program and we are happy to report he is back home safely!

Thanks to the Ridgewood Firefighters

2007-11-10T13:12:00.001-05:00

The Ridgewood Fire Department received a thank you from the soldiers currently serving in Iraq who received the T-shirts they sent. The shirts were sent to Capt. Mark Bombace's son, Matt and his fellow soldiers. Cpl. Matt Bombace is in the first row on the left.

The unit is the Black Section, Mobile Assault Platoon, Anti-Terrorism Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 2. The Unit has been working together for over three years. Their jobs range from machine gunners, riflemen, and a radio operator. They are trained in vehicle combat operations, and personal security for high ranking officials.

The Ridgewood Department shared the email they received from Cpl Matt Bombace:

To the Ridgewood Fire Department,

I want to thank you guys personally

for sending the T-shirts.

The boys here were very excited to receive the T-shirts

and to show some pride

for the Firefighters back home.

We have been in and out of the wire

on a constant basis not only to fight for

and

protect each other

but to get some payback

for events on 9/11

which took 343 firefighters.

Thanks again for your support,

it means a lot to us.

I am counting the days until I can switch

from firefights to fighting fires

with the Ridgewood Fire Department.

Ridgewood Fire Department

2007-11-10T13:02:00.001-05:00

We spoke with Joe Koonce of the Ridgewood Fire Department at the Convention in September. He let us know that his Department was currently working on a shirt to send to Captain Mark Bombace's son, Matt, currently serving in Iraq.

Joe sent us copies of the Ridgewood Fire Department T-shirt. What a wonderful job.... the soldiers will me proud to wear this t-shirt for sure!

September 2007 NJFMBA Convention

2007-11-10T12:44:00.001-05:00

The 2007 NJFBMA Convention took place in mid-September and was a great success for T-shirts for Troops. It gave us a chance to update the membership on the project and what their support had done through the year.

The Convention gave us the opportunity to thank NJFMBA President Bill Lavin for the continued support of the fire fighters of New Jersey. T-Shirts for Troops also thanked Jim Carey of the Kearny FD and John Redstone of the Nutley FD for their outstanding support through the year.

Scott Zabelski, of Blue Wave Printing(formerly Z-line Printing) made up a new shirt for the 2007 Covention. The shirt was a great success. Scott has been just great to work with and all the FBMA Locals that have used his business have been very pleased with their t-shirts.

T-Shirts for Troops was generously supported by the FMBA. That support will go towards sending more shirts to the active Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thanks for all of your continued support!

North Hudson Firefighters

2007-08-30T10:35:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Captain Walter Paczkowski and the men of the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue for their outstanding support of T-Shirts for Troops. Captain Paczkowski has a special incentive to get involved since his nephew, Shane, is currently serving in Iraq in the 501st Paratrooper Infantry Regiment.

Captain Paczkowski writes:

The final tally:
We sold 295 T-shirts and we sent 531 to troops.
The order was shipped last week.
I didn't realize the work and time involved
but it was such a success it was well worth the effort!

Shane's parents, Rich and Barbara sent the following to T-Shirts for Troops:

On behalf of my son, Shane Paczkowski,
and all the men and women of the
501st Paratrooper Infantry Regiment
stationed in Iskandariyah, Iraq,
I want to personally thank you
and all who helped sell the T shirts
to show your support for them.

I can only imagine how good they must feel
when they see the
outpouring of thoughtful support from home.

North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue Dept.
has done an outstanding job,
but without you it means nothing.

Your concern and compassion for those who sacrifice
for us is to be commended. I believe my brother
Captain Walter Paczkowski told me that you shipped
over 500 shirts to those heroes.

I myself am a Air Force veteran ,
a retired Captain from North Hudson Regional ,
and my wife and I are members of the
Blue Star Mothers, Chapter #1 of NJ,
which is parents of military personal on active duty.

We also support veterans
who have served and still deserve our thanks.
We consider it an honor to be
connected to this venture
to support all our troops around the world.
Thank you once again.

Please, I ask that you be patient for
an answer or letter or email from my son.
We have very little contact with him because of where he is in Iraq.
He has hardly any computer access
and has to walk two miles to a phone
when he even has a chance to call his wife and son
before calling us.
We hear from him maybe once a month and
with today's technology that really stinks.

So again, please be patient.
May Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ watch over
you and your family always

Rich and Barbara Paczkowski

Morristown Fire Department

2007-08-24T13:22:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Firefighter Dominic Prizzi and the Morristown Fire Department. Nick and his fellow firefighters sent over 300 T-Shirts to the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion of United States Marines currently serving in Iraq.

The home of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion is Camp Pendleton, California. The 1st Combat Engineer Battalion provides mobility, counter mobility, survivability, and limited general engineering support of the 1st Marine Division. The Battalion also supports the 11th, 13th and 15 Marine Expeditionary Units or MEU's.

Nick and the Morristown fire fighters are still selling shirts and can be reached at (973) 292-6606. The great support of the community of Morristown and the Fire Department is a tribute to the Marines in Iraq.

Offering Hope to the Troops

2007-08-23T14:45:00.001-04:00

The Hope New Jersey, Volunteer Fire Department will be presenting the Marines - 6th Motor Transport Battalion of Red Bank NJ - with 240 shirts in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

John Kruk, of the Hope Fire Department ran "T-Shirts for Troops" in his Warren County Department. Sergeant Kruk, was an Active Duty Marine from 2000-2004.

The Hope Fire Department's T-shirts will be distributed to the Leathernecks that have redeployed home from Iraq and most will be sent to Marines currently serving in Iraq.

Thanks to John Kruk and his fellow firefighters for offering Hope to the Troops!

Geronimo

2007-06-28T11:17:00.001-04:00

Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry (Airborne) recently received over 200 "T-Shirts for Troops".

3-509th (ABN) is partnered with the local Iraqi Army, Police, Highway Patrol, and Government to prevent sectarian violence and create a stable security environment. Ft. Richardson, Alaska is the stateside home of the 509th.

Captain Edward Jackson, Chaplain of the Geronimo's graciously distributed the t-shirts to the men and women in his unit. Chaplain Jackson sent the following email:

The soldiers really liked the shirts
and they appreciate
what you guys have done for us…

Sorry about taking so long to get back with you
but we have been in the process of moving
from Camp Fallujah back to FOB Kalsu
which is south of Baghdad.

I will send you a couple of photos here in
the next couple of hours…
I am going to send you a poster in about a month or so,
so be looking for it in the mail

Thanks
Edward Jackson
Chaplain (CPT) USA
3-509th IN (ABN)

For more information on how your Fire Department can get involved send an email.

US Naval Seabees' Camp Knott, Fallujah

2007-06-27T11:08:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops sent over 200 shirts to the US Naval Seabees. The shirts were distributed to NMCB 28, Delta Detachment Camp Knott, Fallujah, Iraq.

The Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28's route repair team work nights to repair holes caused by IED's in main supply routes of the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. Approximately 60 miles of road are repaired regularly by NMCB 28's MSR/ASR repair teams.

The holes are filled with buckets of Pave Mend; a quick drying concrete patch mixed on site and marked with stamps and spray paint so that military and coalition forces traveling the route recognize the repairs as legitimate.

NMCB 28's team continues to help keep the roads safe for military forces and civilians.

Lt. Commander Chaplin Ron Cooley, currently serving at Camp Fallujah, generously distributed the t-shirts. Chaplain Cooley wrote in an email:

The group photos are of
NMCB 28, Delta Detachment
Camp Knott, Fallujah, Iraq.

While all 200 shirts were distributed
the Seabees' work schedule
has most of the Company working projects

throughout Al Anbar province day and night,
however
these Seabees wanted you to know
how much they appreciated your thoughtfulness
in providing the T-shirts
and
your organization's support.

One of our First Class Petty Officer
asked me to pass along her appreciation:

To FMBA (New Jersey Firefighters),
I wanted to say
"Thank You"

for taking the time to design,
print and distribute these
awesome looking t-shirts.
I will proudly wear my FMBA t-shirt.
Thanks again
for your time, effort and dedication
in support of the Seabees.

Ooh Rah!!

For more information on how your Fire Department can get involved send an email.

Seabees Receive FBMA T-Shirts

2007-06-27T10:51:00.001-04:00

Two hundred T-shirt for Troops were received by the Navy Seabees currently serving in Iraq.

The Seabees are the Construction Battalions of the Navy. The Seabees are building bases, bull dozing and paving thousands of miles of roads and airstrips and accomplishing a variety of projects in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A few members of the 30NCR are also firefighters from Buffalo, New York.

Lt. Commander Chaplain Ron Cooley, currently station at Camp Fallujah, Iraq sent the following email after distributing the T-shirts:

These Seabees
are part of our 30NCR staff
and are Mobilized Reservists
who serve
as full time or volunteer firefighters
back home.
All were excited for the opportunity to

participate in the photo as a way of saying
"Thank you."

Most Sincerely,

Chaplain Ron Cooley

LCDR R. A. COOLEY, CHC, USN

Regimental Chaplain

30TH NCR (FWD)

Camp Fallujah, Iraq

23d CM BN, Bagram, Afghanistan

2007-06-06T09:06:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops was thrilled to receive these pictures from Chaplain Scott Squires of the 23d CM BN Unit attached to 82d AA Div. in Bagram, Afghanistan.

The Troops wear the NJ FBMA Operation Enduring Freedom T-shirts very well!

Thanks Chaplain Squires for the pictures and may and your Troops stay safe!

T-Shirts for Troops Support Operation Enduring Freedom

2007-06-06T09:03:00.002-04:00

NJ FMBA T-Shirts Reach the Troops

2007-06-06T08:54:00.001-04:00

The first "NJ FBMA Supports Operations Enduring Freedom" arrived in the hands of the Troops serving in Afghanistan. Over 400 T-shirts were distributed to Troops. Fr. Sean O'Brien and Chaplain (CPT) Scott Squires oversaw the distribution of the t-shirts.

Chaplain Squires writes:

These Soldiers are with Base Operations, Bagram, Afghanistan.

The unit is 23d CM BN attached to 82d AA Div.

responsible for Base Operations here.

We'll send more photos in the coming days.

We have given shirts to
Soldiers, Marines, SeaBees and other Navy and Air Force.

Everyone has been so thankful (as you can tell from the photos).

I look forward to the next batch for you.

Our thanks to Chaplains O'Brien and Squires for all their help!

Thumbs up from Fire Engineering (click to enlarge)

2007-06-06T08:44:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts from Troops recently received a nice "thumbs up" from the national publication Fire Engineering.

Nutley Fire Inspector John Redstone was responsible for the article. Thanks John for all your continued hard work for "T-Shirts for Troops". John has been visiting local American Legion posts, VFW's and the local watering holes selling shirts for the Special Forces currently serving in Iraq. His efforts are greatly appreciated!

Firefighters in Afghanistan

2007-06-06T08:37:00.001-04:00

The first FMBA, Operation Enduring Freedom T-shirts arrived in Afghanistan!

Fr. Sean O'Brien, Lt. Commander in the US Naval Reserves sent this picture from the Bagram Air Field Fire Department, Station 2, in Bagram, Afghanistan. Fr. Sean took the pictures of the firefighters in their newly arrived "T-Shirts for Troops". Fr. Sean's support of this project, from Afghanistan, has been amazing. The Troops are lucky to have a Chaplain as dedicated as he is.

It doesn't hurt that the good Father is a bit of a fire buff also!

For more information on how your Fire Department can get involved send an email.

New Afghanistan T-Shirts

2007-06-06T08:26:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops recently designed a new T-shirt that will be send to the Troops supporting Operation Enduring in Afghanistan. The shirt bears the Operation Enduring Freedom campaign ribbon which is awarded to all Troops who serve during this military operation.

Bagram Air Field Fire Department

2007-05-10T07:22:00.001-04:00

Fr. Sean O'Brien, Lt. Commander in the US Naval Reserves sent this picture from the Bagram Air Field Fire Department, Station 2, in Bagram, Afghanistan.

Fr. Sean distributed the NJ FBMA "10th Mountain Afghanistan T-shirts" to the firefighters currently serving at the airfield. The firefighters were pleased to see the support of the NJ FMBA.

Fr. Sean writes:

The men at the Bagram Air Field FD were very appreciative of the shirts.
They are a great group of men.

I stop in for a visit and a coffee now and then.
They have taken me under their wing
and their hospitality and kindness

makes time here a bit easier.

So Kevin, between the Marines and the Firemen here;

I am in safe hands.

All is well here. Hope everything is good in NJ.

God Bless,

-Fr. Sean

You can also follow Fr. Sean O'Brien's experiences in Afghanistan in the column in his local newspaper the Boonville Hearld, from upstate New York.

T-Shirts to the Seabees

2007-04-29T19:20:00.001-04:00

Two hundred T-shirts were sent to United States Navy Seabees currently serving out of Camp Fallujah in Iraq. The SeaBees are the construction Battalions of the US Navy. The SeaBees build bases, airstrips and pave miles of roadways in Iraq and Afghanistan. Seabees have also assisted in the rebuilding of Iraq, constructing schools, homes, and electrical power plants.

Chaplain Cooley at Camp Fallujah graciously agreed to distribute the shirts to this elite, hard working group of soldiers. Hopefully pictures will follow shortly!

West Paterson Fire Expo

2007-04-29T19:07:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops would like to thank George Fournier and the West Paterson Fire Expo for the opportunity to sell some t-shirts at their annual event on April 29th.

Captain Kevin Moore of the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue and Nutley Fire Inspector John Redstone had a successful day at the expo. Due to the generosity of those fire fighters attending, T-shirts for Troops will be sending another 310 t-shirts to the Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Thanks to George Fournier and the entire group that run this wonderful event!

Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan

2007-04-24T08:38:00.001-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops has been growing over the past few months. The Fire Departments of Nutley, Belleville, Morristown, West Orange & Clifton have send shirts to the soldiers or are in the midst of planning to send shirts.

T-Shirts for Troops is now looking to raise funds to send shirts to Fr. Sean O'Brien a Lt. Commander in the US Naval Reserves who has been deployed to Bagram in Afghanistan. This is near Bagram Air Base. Bagram has over 7,000 multinational armed services working together in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Many of the Troops are in the 10th Mountain Division and the 82nd Airborne Division.

Fr. Sean recently sent us some pictures of his visit to the Bagram Air Base Fire Department. The Fire Department is run by civilians employed by Kellogg, Brown and Root. The firefighters work to secure the landing strip, provide fire protection and safety when planes land, deliver supplies & take off.

Fr. Sean recently sent an email discussing the impact T-shirts for Troops has made with his soldiers.

New style Operation Enduring Freedom Afghan shirts!

I'm excited to see what you come up with.

T shirts are huge here.

The last of the 10th guys are getting
ready to return home now.

I see your t shirts all over the base.

We hope to raise enough funds to send T-shirts to Fr. Sean and his Troops.

For more information on how your Fire Department can get involved send an email.

Nutley Fire Department (click to enlarge)

2007-04-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to John Redstone and the Nutley Fire Department on the sales of their "Special Forces" T-shirts. The wonderful effort will send 300 T-shirts to troops who have been serving in Iraq. Way to go Big John!!

Morristown Celebrates With T-Shirts (click for larger)

2007-03-15T12:04:00.001-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day to Nick Prizzi and the Morristown Fire Department who will be selling "T-shirts for Troops" at the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Their efforts will be rewarded by sending 500 T-shirts for a battalion of Marines currently serving in Iraq. This is a great way to tie the community into the program. Dominic, you must have the luck of the Irish!

First Responder (click for larger view)

2007-03-13T07:42:00.001-04:00

Thanks to First Reponder and Ron Jeffers for their continued coverage of the "T-Shirts for Troops" Program. Ron included an article in the April 2007 issue of the newspaper in which he paid a nice tribute to Lt. Kevin Landeck who has killed while serving in Iraq. Thanks for the continued support of the program!

Who Says Only Fire Fighters Support the Troops

2007-03-12T09:56:00.001-04:00

The students at The College of New Jersey have hopped on the "T-Shirts for Troops" project to show their support for the Troops. Joseph Moore, a senior at the New Jersey College, will be sending t-shirts to the First Cavalry Division currently serving in Iraq.

Thank you from Afghanistan

2007-03-12T09:29:00.001-04:00

"T-shirts for Troops" recently received this email from Major Charles Reynolds, the Chaplain for the 10th Mountain Division currently serving in Iraq. The Troops recently had their tour extended so the 500 T-shirts were a great surprise.

From: "Reynolds, Charles USA MAJ USA HHC 3 IBCT 10th Mtn"
Date March 4, 2007 11:31:46 AM EST
To: "Kevin Moore"

Kevin-

We got the T-shirts. They are awesome!
Everybody wants one.
I will try to get you some pictures.

We are working to get you guys a Spartan Brigade Certification of Appreciation.
We gave them out to everyone on the Brigade Staff
and
we are going to take the rest to the soldiers out in remote locations.

Major Charles Reynolds, USA MAJ USA HHC 3 IBCT 10th MTN

Nutley Fire Department

2007-03-12T09:25:00.001-04:00

The Nutley Fire Department and John Redstone have adopted the Special Forces soldiers currently fighting in Iraq. The T-shirts have been designed and are currently being printed which means the soldiers with "boots on the ground" will be receiving them shortly!

Morristown Fire Department

2007-03-12T08:59:00.001-04:00

The Morristown Fire Department will be selling "T-Shirts for Troops" at the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. Proceeds will help send 200 T-shirts to the Troops currently serving in Iraq. Great idea to raise some funds to keep the T-shirts flowing!

West Orange Fire Department

2007-03-12T08:45:00.001-04:00

The West Orange Department and Captain Pizzichiello continue to show their support for the Troops by distributing T-shirts at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey to returning members of the 2nd Battalion-25th Marines just returning from Iraq.

Captain Pizzichiello and his fellow firefighters have being doing a great job with the T-shirts for Troops Program. Thanks for all the help and dedication Jim!

Who was Capt. Kevin Landeck

2007-02-04T11:50:00.001-05:00

"T-shirts for Troops" is saddened by the loss of Capt. Kevin Landeck. Captain Landeck died on February 2, in Baghdad, of wounds suffered when an IED detonated near his vehicle. Staff Sgt. Terrence Dunn was also killed. Both men were assigned to the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, NY.

At a memorial service in Iraq, Chaplain Richard West said "he was known for his competency, his intensity....and his hair!" Landeck was remembered as a platoon leader with a sense of humor matched only by his skills as an infantryman.

Kevin, who turned 26 years old on January 30th, hailed from Wheaton, Illinois. He went to Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. where he joined the ROTC. He majored in criminal justice.

Kevin met with wife Bethany at school. Bethany is also an officer in the Army. Kevin and Bethany have been married for a year.

Upon graduation Kevin was commissioned as a Second Lt. in the Infantry. Kevin spent a year in training and was stationed in Ft. Drum New York where he was an Infantry Platoon Leader. Kevin had been in the Army almost three years and was hoping for a promotion to Captain. He was promoted to Captain posthumously, along with being awarded the Bronze Star.

Kevin and his men were great supporters of the "T-Shirts for Troops". Our favorite photos, are the ones below, of Capt. Landeck and his men, "Ruck, Arnie and Fast Eddie" showing off their NJ FMBA T-shirts. Capt. Landeck's pictures were published in the NJ First Responder and the November 2006 FBMA Bulletin. We were thrilled to get the pictures Kevin continued to send of his mission in Iraq.

Kevin sent the picture above and commented he liked the "tough guy look" on the little boys face. It relates to a previous email in which said:

Just to let you know
I was one of those little terrors when i was in school,
nothing to crazy but i had my days of staying after school,
especially in second grade!
My second grade teacher has one of my neighbors
in her class and they will be writing letters to me here soon too!
Kinda weird,
I never thought I would hear from my second grade teacher again
but it is very nice!

Kevin also had a special respect for Firefighters and he stated that in an email he sent after he and his Troops received the NJ FBMA T-shirts.

I got your package with the T-shirts, let me say thanks
for your guys support and second,
the shirts were awesome!
If you can send more
I have some guys who would love some.

Keep in touch and stay safe on your end.
What you and your guys do on your end is awesome
and there was a time I wanted to be a firefighter.
So tell your guys thanks too!

Our thoughts are with Capt. Landeck's wife Bethany, his parents and his sister. Ours thoughts are also with his men in Iraq.

A Death in the Family

2007-02-04T11:45:00.001-05:00

It is with great sadness that "T-Shirts for Troops" learned of the death of Lt. Kevin Landeck of the 10th Mountain Division. Lt. Landeck was a great supporter of the program and sent us pictures of he and his troops proudly wearing their NJ FMBA T-shirts. Kevin is in the back row on the right. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kevin and his family.

The Support Continues at North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue

2007-02-02T10:03:00.001-05:00

Captain Kevin Moore and Firefighter's Steve Mirabelli & Gary Ippolito of E13, the over 50 brigade, display their T-Shirts for Troops.

North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue has sent over 2,500 T-shirts to the Troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The men of NHRFR continue to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the program by introducing the T-Shirts to firefighters in other departments in the State.

Support at North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue continues to grow. Captain Jonathan Rush, along with Firefighters Steve Mirabelli & Gary Ippolito recently purchased T-Shirts for Troops.
The shirts shown above have been sent to the First Cavalry, the 10th Mountain Division and the Navy SeaBees. Over 2,500 Troops have benefited from the effort at NHRFR alone.

Thanks guys for the continued support!

A T-Shirts for Troops Update

2007-01-29T18:07:00.001-05:00

This is a bit of an update on the T-shirts for Troops Program. This includes only the T-shirts sent by the program---not by the individual Fire Departments. To see an update on individual Fire Departments scroll down the page.

So far.......

1000 T-shirts were sent to the Vipers 519th Unit in Iraq
500 T-shirts were sent to the 1st Cavalry Division Iraq
500 T-shirts were sent to the 10th Mountain Division in Iraq
500 T-shirts were sent to the 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan

In the works at the printer.......

200 T-shirts will be sent to Naval Seabees
200 T-shirts for the 509th Geronimo's in Iraq
&
400 T-shirts, Purple Hearts, for wounded soldiers who are currently staying at Fisher House while in rehabilitation.

All funds raised by T-shirt sales was recycled into buying and sending more T-shirts to the Troops.

Only one T-shirt was given away and that went to New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine and that was done under duress!

Keep up the good work. It is times like this that our soldiers need to know that New Jersey Firefighters are supporting them!

In the Works.....

2007-01-29T18:01:00.001-05:00

Firefighters from Morristown, Sayreville and Middletown have T-Shirt sales in progress. The sales from these shirts will be responsible for continuing to send more shirts to the Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For more information on how your Fire Department can get involved send an email.

Jersey City Firefighters Support the Troops

2007-01-29T17:54:00.001-05:00

Captain Charlie Lind, Jr. of the Jersey City Fire Department sold over 120 T-shirts to his fellow firefighters from three different Departments.

Thanks to the Teaneck Fire Department, the Bergenfield Fire Department and Captain Lind's own Jersey City Fire Department.

Over 275 T-shirts were in turn sent to the Troops in Iraq. Captain Lind's efforts should be applauded!

Madison Fire Department

2007-01-29T17:44:00.001-05:00

Madison Firefighters sent 220 T-Shirts to the 10th Mountain Division currently serving in Iraq. The 10th Mountain's tour in Iraq was recently extended so the T-Shirts are a great way to show the Troops that the Firefighters in Madison, NJ are supporting them!

Kearny Fire Department

2007-01-29T17:30:00.001-05:00

The Kearny Firefighters, organized by Jim Carey, sold over 100 T-Shirts which translates into sending over 250 T-shirts to the Troops in Iraq. Jim, thanks for all the help!

West Orange Fire Department

2007-01-29T17:16:00.001-05:00

Captain Jim Pizzichiello and the West Orange Firefighters showed their support for 2nd Battalion-25th Marines by sending 1300 T-shirts to the Unit just returning from Iraq.

The Firefighters also printed up T-shirts in "Memory of Lance Cpl Christopher Cosgrove III". Cosgrove, a Whippany resident was killed October 1, 2006 at a checkpoint outside Fallujah, Iraq, by a suicide bomber.

The Cosgrove Family was very pleased by the T-shirts and the West Orange firefighters made sure the shirts were available to all those family members who wanted them!

Thanks to Jim Pizzichiello and the W.O. firefighters
for creating the T-shirts in memory of
Chris.
We appreciate all you have done,
not only for Chris
but for all his brothers in the US Marine Corps!
Semper Fidelis!
Chris' Mom & Art

This is a wonderful example of T-Shirts for Troops at it's best! Jim, you and your department have done a great job!

Nutley Fire Department Gets Involved

2007-01-29T10:59:00.001-05:00

The Nutley Fire Department, organized by John Redstone and John Hund, just received their "T-Shirts for Troops". The Essex County Department efforts will in turn forward over 200 shirts to the troops currently serving in Iraq. Thanks for your support!

Harrison Fire Department

2007-01-29T10:51:00.001-05:00

The Harrison, New Jersey Fire Department recently demonstrated their support of the Troops in Iraq by purchasing T-shirts. Their support of "T-Shirts for Troops" will allow over 200 T-Shirts to be sent to soldiers currently serving in Iraq. Thanks to the Harrison Fire Department!

T-Shirts from Santa

2006-12-28T20:15:00.001-05:00

Everyone was surprised with the new T-Shirts for Troops that Santa left.
These kids are the same age as the soldiers serving in Iraq.
The T-Shirts were a gift to the kids and to the soldiers in Iraq!

Geronimo!

2006-12-21T21:11:00.001-05:00

I was filled with pride on December 12, 2006 when I attended the dedication of the Brown-Swank Drop Zone at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Sgt. Andrew Brown was my Godson who was killed by an IED on October 8, 2004 while serving in Iraq.

Soldiers of A Company, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment gathered at Beauregard Parish Airport to honor two of their fallen "Geronimo's"; my Godson, Sgt Andrew Brown and Sgt Brett Swank. A portion of the airport was renamed the "Brown-Swank Drop Zone". Many of the soldiers at the dedication had served with Andy and it was nice to touch base with them.

While visiting Fort Polk, Louisiana I distributed NJ FMBA T-shirts to many of the soldiers who were thrilled to receive them. I also had the opportunity to meet with Chaplain Pete Keough of the "519th Vipers". North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue sent 1,015 T-shirts to Chaplain Keough that he distributed to the Troops in Iraq.

I posted some pictures of the dedication ceremony. Seeing these soldiers, anxious to wear the NJ FMBA T-shirt, was a wonderful thing for the soul and stresses how important this project is for those serving our country.

The Daily Charge (click for larger view)

2006-12-20T09:28:00.001-05:00

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

2006-12-08T08:19:00.001-05:00

Soldiers in the 10th Mountain Division
stationed in Iraq
show off their
"NJ FBMA Support the Troops" T-shirts.
Due to the generosity of NJ Firefighters,
500 shirts were distributed to the 10th Mountain Division.

Lending a Helping Hand in Iraq......

2006-12-01T15:37:00.002-05:00

Sgt. 1st Class Mark Morrissey & Major Robert Wichman, Chaplain,
with the 1st Cavalry Division stationed in Camp Liberty, Iraq
admire some of the T-shirts sent by NJ Firefighters

Thanks for the help......

2006-12-01T13:29:00.001-05:00

Thumbs up to Ron Jeffers,
of the 1st Responders Newspaper,
for his continued support of the
T-Shirts for Troops project.
Ron ran the article in the
"Ups and Downs" column
of the January 2007
1st Responder Newspaper.
(click picture to read)

The Troops & the NJ FMBA

2006-11-24T11:04:00.000-05:00

Members of the 10th Mountain Division,
lead by Lt. Kevin Landeck

currently serving in Iraq
show off their
NJ FMBA T-shirts

In Country

2006-11-18T03:19:00.001-05:00

Lt. Kevin Landeck,and his men
Ruck, Arny & Fast Eddy
members of the
10th Mountain Division, stationed in Lutafiyah, Iraq
wearing the T-shirts
"New Jersey FMBA Supports Operation Iraqi Freedom"

Thanks From the Troops

2006-11-10T23:02:00.001-05:00

Look at what your support did!
Due to the generous support of the New Jersey FMBA and Bill Lavin over 1,000 troops in Iraq have received T-shirts.

Below see Lt. Kevin Landeck of the 10th Mountain Division and his men proudly wearing their "NJ FBMA Supports Operation Iraqi Freedom" shirts. Lt. Landeck and his men are currently stationed in Lutafiyah, Iraq.

Lt. Landeck’s wrote in his email:

I got your package with the t-shirts, let me say thanks
for your guys support and second,
the shirts were awesome!
If you can send more
I have some more guys who would love some.

Keep in touch and stay safe on your end.
What you and your guys do on your end is awesome
and there was a time I wanted to be a firefighter.
So tell your guys thanks too!

The 500 T-shirts that were sent to Lt. Landeck and his men of the 10th Mountain Division was made possible by a generous donation of the NJ FMBA membership during the Atlantic City Convention in September.

To date over 1,000 soldiers are wearing New Jersey FMBA shirts. In the near future, we hope to match that number of shirts that will be sent to the Troops. This will bring the total number of “T-Shirts for Troops” to over 3,000.

TShirts for Troops Update & News Stories

2006-10-03T08:50:00.001-04:00

Through the generosity of the NJ FBMA, T-Shirts for Troops was able to "adopt" another unit, the 10th Mountain Division. Shortly, 500 T-Shirts will be sent to the Troops in Iraq serving in the 10th Mountain Division. These shirts will show the support of the NJ FBMA for the soldiers currently serving in Iraq.

Thanks to John Hund the editor of the the FMBA Bulletin for the update about the project in November 2006 issue.

Also, thanks to Editor, Ron Jeffers for the article in the "1st Responders Newspaper." We hope these articles spur some more Departments into running "T-Shirts for Troops" in their communities.

For more information email me.

2006 New Jersey FBMA Convention

2006-09-25T10:56:00.001-04:00

The New Jersey FMBA and it's members made "T-Shirts for Troops" extremely successful at this years convention. The sales of the T-shirts and a very generous donation by the State FBMA will guarantee that close to 1500 T-shirts will be sent to the Troops in Iraq.

Imagine, 1500 soldiers will be wearing T-shirts that show the support of "New Jersey Firefighters"!

The other good news, is that many FMBA members have agreed to take this idea back to their departments and run a similar program.

The New Jersey FMBA and it's members should be very proud of their support of the "T-Shirts for Troops"

To Order T-Shirts from the 2006 FMBA Convention

2006-09-23T11:45:00.000-04:00

Email me!

- Your name, address, phone number, email address & your FMBA local #

- Number of shirts and the sizes needed

sizes available Small to 5X

- Shirts are $15.00

Orders can be filled at any time!

How T-Shirts for the Troops Started

2006-09-23T11:33:00.000-04:00

This is Sgt Andrew Brown.

My Godson, Andy, was killed in Iraq on October 8, 2004 at the age of 22.

After Andy's death, I sent many different care packages to the troops in Iraq. I sent magazines, batteries, cigarettes and candy bars. I'm sure these extras were well received but, I still felt as if I could be providing something more, something that stayed with the soldiers after the last M & M was gone.

While attending a memorial service in Fort Hood Texas, I spoke with a Chaplain who helped me with this dilemma; what could I send a soldier that would last a bit and also show my support for their efforts. The Chaplain indicated that T-shirts from home were a huge hit with the soldiers.

I took his suggestion to heart and "T-Shirts for the Troops" was started!

Your Department, Your Logo, Your T-Shirts for the Troops in Five Easy Pieces

2006-09-23T10:59:00.000-04:00

T-Shirts for Troops is a project that any Fire Department can run to show their support for the Troops in Iraq.

Below are Five Easy Steps that outline how I ran "T-Shirts for Troops" in North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue. This is just an outline. You should adapt things to fit your department and community.

The end result will still be the same; the Troops in Iraq will know that NJ Firefighters are supporting them.

Piece 1: I'm in Charge Now What?

2006-09-23T10:58:00.000-04:00

So you have been designated as the point person for the "T-Shirts for Troops" for your Fire Department. The main thing to keep in mind is, the more T-shirts sold in your community the more T-shirts that you can send to the Troops. Don't worry---the rewards will be many!

The following are some issues that you may want to discuss before you kick things off in your Department.

Will your Department be the main sponsor of the T-Shirts?

You can decide if your Department will run this project alone or will you partner up with another organization - EMS, Police also consider the American Legion, the VFW or the Elks in your community.

Which Unit in Iraq will be receiving your T-Shirts?

The best way to decide on this is to check in your own department and see if anyone has a family member currently serving in Iraq. You can also check the FMBA web site which has a list of current NJFMBA members called to active duty. Your local Veterans organizations would also be able to provide this information.

What is your time frame for this project?

I have found that this project takes about two months from the original printing of the shirts for sale, sale of the shirts and, the re-printing of the shirts for the troops in Iraq. So, when you are deciding on a Unit to "adopt" be sure they will still be deployed in Iraq when you plan on shipping your T-shirts.

Who is the Chaplain of the Unit you will be working with?

Without a doubt, the units Chaplain is the best person as your contact in Iraq.
An individual solider is not equipped to handle the receipt of the T-shirts which could be delivered in many boxes. Leaving distribution up to them would be an unnecessary chore. The Chaplain has contact with many of the troops and would see that the T-shirts are distributed to those soldiers who should receive them. Both times I have run this project, the Chaplains have been just thrilled to be able to distribute something tangible to their troops.

How do I contact the Unit Chaplain?

Email is the best method of communication with those in the sandbox. Please contact me directly if you need some assistance locating a Unit Chaplain or their email information. Also, read the "Tips" section below.

Piece 2: Designing Your T-Shirt to Sell

2006-09-23T10:57:00.000-04:00

This is where you can show your Department's support for the Troops. The text, the graphics and the color of the shirt are all up to you.

In the past I have designed two shirts. Both shirts were gray, a dark shirt in the heat of Iraq is not a good idea. I also wanted my members to have the same shirt as the soldiers. The first shirt had my Department's logo on the front. The back of the T-shirt had the logo of the "519th Vipers" the Unit we adopted. This was a three color T-shirt and it sold very well.

The next shirt I designed was for the 1st Cavalry. This is the T-shirt which was sold at the 2006 FMBA convention. This shirt had a modified New Jersey FMBA logo with the 1st Cavalry logo in the center. Take a look in the post above. The back had the 1st Cavalry logo with some text. A picture is also shown below. This was a two color T-shirt and it sold very well.

This web site list all of the military units logos. You can also go a Google search to locate an image. If your printer offers the services of a graphic designer for free, take advantage! Remember, the more intricate a T-shirt the more expensive it will be to print. This will cut down on your profits and in turn on the number of shirts going to the Troops.

So, you now have a T-shirt design....what next

Piece 3: Printing the Shirts

2006-09-23T10:56:00.002-04:00

After you have designed your T-shirt, you will need to work with a printer. If you have already been working with a printer, stick with them. If you can use the same printer who does your department T-shirts, stick with them. If you have a local business who would be willing to cut some prices for a worthy cause that is who you would use!

I have used Z-Line Imprinted Sportswear, 3263 Route 35 North, Ocean Beach, New Jersey 08735. (732) 793-1234. Scott Zabelski from Z-Line worked very well with me and made some recommendations that I found useful. He has a graphic artist that he works with for free. His one time set up charge for the shirts is very reasonable. Approval on the T-shirts and all discussions can be done via email or telephone.

One thing that I found extremely useful when sending the shirts to the APO address of the Unit's Chaplain, Z-line was willing to ship the shirts, at cost, directly from their facilities so I did not have to drive and pick up boxes and take them to UPS or the Post Office. This was a great time saver.

I have no connection to Z-Line. I checked four different companies and found Z-line would provide me the best prices which in turn meant more T-shirts for the Troops. So use the company that best suits your needs to produce a T-shirt that your Department members and the Troops would be proud to wear.

Now I have these great T-shirts, how do I sell them......

Piece 4: Selling Your T-Shirts

2006-09-23T10:56:00.001-04:00

Now that you have a good product you will want to sell the T-shirts.

After you know your costs from the printer, you can set a price to sell the shirts. It is a good thing to be able to tell those buying a shirt, "for every one shirt sold, we will send two t-shirts to Iraq."

When I sold the shirts in my Department, I had a flyer and a sign up sheet in each house with an explanation of the project. Don't forget to post sign up sheets and flyers with your dispatchers and your mechanics. I found this group of people, many times left out, were great supporters of this effort.

I asked the Firefighters to mark down the number of shirts they wanted, the sizes and their money. The sign up sheet had a color pictures of the back and front of the T-shirt which was provided by the printer. I asked one person from each house to collect the money. I left the sheet up for two weeks before I collected them.

I than had my list of those ordering shirts, the sizes needed and the money to place the order. I also asked and received generous donations from the Firefighters Local and the Fire Officers Local.

I called the printer and ordered the correct amount of shirts for the Firefighters and a separate order for the T-shirts for Iraq.

If you have a smaller department, this is where you would want to sell the shirts to family members, civic organizations and any other places you see fit. The more T-shirts you sell, the more will be heading to Iraq.

Now that your T-shirts are sold lets see how they get from NJ to Iraq....

Piece 5: Printing & Sending the Shirts to Iraq

2006-09-23T10:54:00.000-04:00

So when your T-shirts are sold, you will know how many you need to have printed for your Department. You also know your profit so you can order T-shirts to go to Iraq. If you have to chose, have the shirts printed for your paying clients printed first. Deliver the shirts to the firehouses and you are half done!

I ordered mostly Large and X-Large T-shirts to send to the Troops. I ordered a small amount of Medium and 2-XL's but the bulk of the order was for L and XL shirts.

Speak with your printer and ask if he can ship the T-shirts directly from his store to the APO address of the Unit Chaplain. This APO address is in the US so the cost will not be outrageous. You have two options for shipping: ground or air. Of course air will cost more but if there is a time deadline if your "adopted" Unit is heading home, you may want to consider this. Shipping cost about $20 per box which holds around 75 shirts in each.

A customs declaration must be completed for each box. This form is available in the Post Office. Also, be sure if the printer will send the shirts directly, that all the billing paperwork is removed from the boxes ahead of time.

Email the Unit Chaplain and let them know the T-shirts are in the mail! Be sure to ask the Chaplain to send some follow up pictures of the Troops in the shirts. They will be a great thing to show for your efforts in your Department.

I would also ask that you email me a copy of the shirts you design so I can post them on this site.

Tips

2006-09-23T10:36:00.000-04:00

Below is a list of tips that should help with any questions you may have.

How do you identify a Unit to "adopt" to send T-shirts? Ask around your department, your families and, your community to identify a soldier and their unit. A soldier that has some connection to your Department or community is perfect. You may also check the State FMBA web site for a list of Fellow FBMA members currently serving.
How many soldiers are in a Unit and how many T-shirts do I send? Once you have identified the Unit your soldier belong to, take some time to find the Unit's logo and also see how many soldiers are assigned to that Unit. For example, the 705th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 1st Combat Support Brigade out of Ft. Polk recently deployed to Iraq. That Unit consist of 23 soldiers. If you sent them 200 T-shirts they would be very appreciative but also a bit overwhelmed. So, a suggestion, take one step back from a soldier's individual Unit. Find out who they are attached to, i.e. which Task Force. The 1st Cavalry T-shirts we send from the FBMA convention have tens of thousand of Troops deployed in Iraq. The 1st Cavalry is made up of many smaller Units so we could never send "to many" shirts! One dozen shirt or one hundred shirts---it doesn't matter, the soldiers will be appreciative.
How do I know when a Unit of soldiers in heading home? Check the web site of the Unit your soldier is from. It will have the deployment date. Most Units are deployed from 8 months to a year. T-Shirts for Troops take about 2 months to run from inception to mailing so be sure the soldiers are scheduled to still be in Iraq. If not, the T-shirts, addressed to the Chaplain, will be forwarded to the Troops once they are home. Still a nice surprise for them.
How do you locate the Chaplain of the Unit you would like to send T-shirts to? This is a easy one! Send me the APO address of the soldier in the unit you are "adopting" and I will get you the email address of the Chaplain in Iraq. You can also do a "google" search on the home base the Unit was deployed from. You will find a telephone number for the Chaplain's office. Call that number. Chaplains are so in tune with their Troops, they will bend over backwards to help get you the information you need.

Shipping the T-Shirts Take at look at this site for information on sending packages to the Troops in Iraq. It explains what an APO mailing address is and how a package arrives. You will to complete a Customs Declaration Form, available in the Post Office, for each box.