Operation Comfort Warriors

Operation Comfort Warriors is a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded military personnel, providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the government. OCW ensures that patients at U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units are given items like sweat suits, DVDs, puzzles, electronic devices, books, calling cards and more.

Since December of 2008, the American Legion family has raised more than $300,000 for this effort, which has helped improve the quality of life for military men and women in hospital settings and warrior transition units. The American Legion family responded to National Commander Clarence Hill’s goal to raise an additional $100,000 during the 2009 holiday season, exceeding the figure by more than $12,000.

More than 35,000 American troops have been injured since the War on Terrorism started; countless others have been hospitalized. There’s always an injured servicemember in need of comfort.

“Just because we met our goal for 2009 does not mean the need stops for 2010,” Commander Hill said. “The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq continue. Military service continues to include inherent dangers from training and other hazardous duties. As long as our men and women are in harm’s way, there will continue to be wounded warriors. The American Legion needs to be there for our heroes. Operation Comfort Warriors is an excellent way for us to show our appreciation for their sacrifices.”