On behalf of the entire Regan family, we would like to thank everyone who contributed to the Memorial Day care packages that were sent to the Army Rangers in Iraq and Afghanistan, in memory of Sgt. James J. Regan.

This project began with an email that was sent to a bunch of friends here in Manhasset, requesting donations of various items that we knew Jimmy liked to receive while he was serving overseas. To say that we were overwhelmed by the response is an understatement. The email got forwarded several times over with individuals, families and many local organizations rallying to support our little endeavor and soon it became a massive collaborative effort. Tons of everything on the "wish list" came pouring in, along with cards and letters of support created in large part by students of Jimmy's alma mater, Munsey Park School. Several surrounding communities also jumped on board, sending cards and letters created by their children, as well as donating many of the requested items. As a result, we were able to create and send out nearly 80 care packages filled with all kind of goodies that we know our brave servicemen will enjoy.

Special thanks goes out to the following individuals and groups who had a particularly significant role in this effort:

Munsey Park Women's Club, for helping to spread the word, Boy Scout Troop 71 and Cub Scout Pack 101, whose combined efforts resulted in several carloads of donations, Mark Fay, classroom teachers and students at Munsey Park School for their beautiful and creative cards and letters, Plandome Country Club, for providing the space that we so desperately needed in order to get all the donated items organized, sorted and packed, The "packing elves" (You know who you are!), for showing up at our makeshift workshop, rolling up their sleeves and helping to get the job done, The Manhasset branch of the United States Postal Services, for sending the mail truck to PCC to transport the packages to the post office and then processing such a huge order so promptly and efficiently, Staples of Manhasset and manager, Tim Sullivan, for donating many of the necessary packing/shipping supplies, Raindew Family Stores, Pharmacy Department, Betty Devries and the Manhasset Community Club, Kathy Olwy and members of the MEA in all four Manhasset Public Schools, Bob Hotarek, Kevin Kenny and their colleagues at Citigroup in NYC.

To the people of Manhasset, the phrase "Support Our Troops" is more than a mere thought, or idea, or just a catchy slogan to put on the back of a car - it is an action. It is yet another reason why we feel so blessed to be part of such a great community. Thank you again for your support and generosity.

Mary Regan and Ali Regan