BOISE -- There's a unique way some people in Boise are saying "Thank You" to our troops serving overseas.
An assembly line of sorts turned out a product that is definitely something to write home about.
It's all about connecting.
People at the Woodcraft store Saturday connected with our troops by making something special that will help them stay
connected with their families.
It all starts with a small, rough piece of wood, then step-by-step it becomes a smooth, polished gift.
"This year we're trying to turn about 1,257 pens to send over to the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Steven Young, the
event organizer.
About 50 volunteers came to Woodcraft in Boise to do a little woodworking for the troops.
"Because these guys are out there risking their lives for us on a daily basis," Young said.
For the last six years, volunteers like Dennis Walker have been turning out thousands of pens.
"Well, I think it's the support from home that makes the troops feel like they're doing something worthwhile," Walker said.
Walker understands that very well. He's a Vietnam veteran who lost his sight in the war.
"I was operating a bulldozer and a hit a booby-trapped rocket," Walker said.
Working by feel alone, Walker works fast. He said he figures he put together 800 pens last year alone.
A gift made by hand that will fit nicely in the hands of those so far from home and oen that will help them feel a little closer.
"And everybody in Iraq and Afghanistan, they're going to write letters,” Young said. “So this was a neat way to add to their
ability to communicate with their families back at home.”
A nice touch to stay in touch, back and forth around the world.
"They don't get the thanks that they really deserve,” Young said. “And this is one small way to show that we really
appreciate what they're doing.”
He calls it a small way to show their appreciation, but it's really been a big effort.
Young figures over the last six years, they've made and shipped more than 6,000 pens to our troops overseas.
The latest batch goes out on Monday.
Woodcraft locations across the country take part in this effort.
