VFWLAPTOPS


	VFW Donates Laptop Computers to Deploying Marines


	Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 15, 2005-- Staff Sgt. Bryan Canter had two “thank yous” to deliver when he accepted 18 laptop computers the VFW donated to his unit and family support center.

“On behalf of the 24^thMarines and our Marines with 1^stBattalion, I thank you for this donation that will have such a huge impact on morale and allow this young group of Marines to e-mail and stay in touch with their families,” he said at the September presentation. “I’m also a VFW member, and I’d like to thank you on behalf of my comrades as well.” The 24^th’s Data Chief, Christopher Fulgium, emphasized the importance of frequent communication with

with loved ones for the Marines of the 24^th, many of whom will be leaving their families for the first time. “They’ll need a while to adjust to the distance and time away,” he said. “They can also use the laptops to play games and just relax a little. “It’ll be important for them to have ways to take their minds off their high-stress jobs once they’re over there,” Fulgium added. Support like the laptop computers also goes a long way in creating a positive impression of the VFW with tomorrow’s veterans. “All of the Marines understand that these computers are from the VFW for their personal welfare, and they’re very grateful,” Fulgium said. “Most of them picked up VFW applications while we were waiting to leave the states. It makes all of us proud to know we’re supported by the VFW.”

Caption: Staff Sgt. Bryan Canter and Sgt. Michael Becker accept 18 Gateway laptops from the VFW. Representing the VFW is Larry Maher, VFW quartermaster general.