Years ago, I sent a random message through social media, thanking service members for their sacrifices and dedication to keeping me and my loved ones safe. 

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Though never having family in the military, I just wanted to say “thanks” since my only connection to the military was a dear friend from High School (USMA West Point, Army: Persian Gulf War & Somalia) and my Father-in-Law (USMC: Korea).

 

A few days later, I received a message from a service member “in theatre” at JSOC (Joint Special Operations Command), Iraq.  This person to whom I have never spoken said “Thanks for your support.”

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I was touched. My message made it to Iraq. I quickly replied that if there was anything I could do to help, he should let me know. I volunteered to write letters to elected-officials on his behalf; send cards and letters to family; and send food. 

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He replied, “Ma’am, if it’s not too much trouble, how about some beef jerky?”  

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“BEEF JERKY???” I responded, thinking I was being pranked by a friend.

 

“Yes, please!” he replied. “When we go out on patrol, we’re gone for hours at a time and we can take it with us, and it really tastes good!” 

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Now, truth be told, I have had lots of “jerk” food, but never had I tasted anything “jerky!”  I went to Costco that day.  I bought 3 of the largest bags I could find, shipped them and there began my relationship with US Service Members (37 men and 3 women) in Iraq. Over the months that followed, I shipped packages until I got word that my contact was K.I.A., I wept!

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Many years later, on my late father’s birthday I recalled his life mantra: “When you take care of the kings, you will live with the masses; but, when you take care of the masses, you will live with YOUR King!” 

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This inspired me to resume sending care packages. I enlisted the aid of one of my nieces to create LOVE ONE BY ONE, INC. (d.b.a. LOVE1X1.org)  It is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable donations for federal income tax purposes. 

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My dream is to touch the lives of as many single U.S. Service Members (receiving little or no mail) as I am able to, so that every one of them leaves "mail call" feeling our love...one by one! 

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- jacqui -