The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of the Island Council #6911 is coordinating efforts to ship basic items to United States troops stationed in Iraq. Adopt-a-Battalion is the creation of Jack Parker, Past Grand Knight of Council #6911, and his wife Patricia. Their son, Major Timothy Parker, U.S.M. C., also a member of the Knights of Columbus, is currently serving in Iraq.

"The war does not end after the holidays," Parker stated. "We're still working and supporting our troops in Iraq. Their courage, devotion to duty and country, and sacrifice must not, and should not, be forgotten."

Items needed are: toothbrushes, deodorant, disposable cameras, candy, lip balm, camper-style food like beef jerky and granola bars, flashlights, dental floss, razors, moist wipes, music compact discs, Nerf toys, pens and pencils, stationery, envelopes, global phone cards, foot powder, and plastic bags with zip-lock closures. As the temperature has dropped in Iraq, gloves, scarves and socks would also be of use.

Council #6911 recently acknowledged the Massapequa School District for their participation in the Adopt-a-Battalion program. With the school district's assistance, the council was able to send 250 cartons of essential items to troops in Iraq in time for the December holidays. Of all the items sent, treasured most were letters written by the students, as many of the 1,200 Marines in the battalion do not receive letters or packages from home.

This program will continue as long as the troops remain in Iraq. Donated items can be dropped off on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall, located at 2 Eastgate Rd. (next to Big Daddy's restaurant) in Massapequa Park. The telephone number is 798-9887, or visit the website at www.kofc6911.org. Monetary donations are also welcome to offset the price of shipping. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus 6911 A.A.B.