More than 60 families from the New York Metro area connected with their loved ones, Marines deployed in Fallujah, via a live web conference on Christmas Eve thanks to The Garden City Hotel and the Freedom Calls Foundation, a participant in the Department of Defense's "America Supports You" program.

"We feel honored to be able to give Long Islanders the most precious gift during the holiday season - the opportunity to connect with their loved ones in Fallujah," Patrick Smalley, executive vice president of the hotel and Fairhaven Properties, Inc., said. "The Freedom Calls Foundation has given us a wonderful opportunity to use our facilities and modern technology in expressing support to our troops overseas and their families on Long Island on Christmas Eve."

Edward Bukstel, Freedom Calls Foundation co-founder added, "This is the second time that we have had the privilege to help Marines in Fallujah and families stay connected. In October we helped a new father see his new baby and wife moments after birth at Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital."

The Freedom Calls Foundation is dependent upon the support and generosity of corporations and the American people. The network currently supports over nearly 1,500 soldiers every day and has received a commendation from the Army for its services to the soldiers and their families. The Freedom Calls Foundation is authorized by the secretary of the Army to provide communications services to the troops and their families. Visit www.freedomcalls.org for more information.