NBC 25 NEWS- With satellite phones, e-mail, and even ways to stream video
from overseas, families with loved ones serving in Iraq or Afghanistan can
keep in touch.
But one local couple is taking a low-tech approach to show their support.
Using their creativity and her passion for scrap booking Julie and Tony
Leggieri are showing soldiers who they're fighting for.
“Putting a face on America’s thanks, that's what we're doing,” said Tony
Leggieri.
And there telling why the fight is worthwhile.
"There are lots of people that volunteered to sacrifice their lives for
strangers. That’s who we are and we're trying to shed some light on who
those strangers are,” said Leggieri.
In the past month they've collected pictures from people across the region,
including some family portraits.
The scrapbook also includes pictures that represent some of the freedoms the
troops are fighting for. From a day at the zoo to a 4th of July barbeque,
the bottom line is if you send a picture, they'll work it in.
“As difficult as it might seem, put yourself away from your family. What
would you want to see if you were overseas, what would you want to see if
you haven't seen your family, or an oak tree in over a year?,” said Julie
Leggieri.
“One person sent us a picture of their backyard with an American flag in
it,” said Tony. "This is the epitome of what you all do over there, that we
can just hang a flag on our house and show our support."
But the Leggieri’s said the scrapbook isn't about supporting the war. It’s
about supporting the ones fighting it, wherever they are.
“This is not about the war, this is about - you know - three miles from here
at Fort Detrick, the people training for the 'what if' situation,” said
Tony.
And while the war may have inspired scrapbooks for soldiers, the Leggieri’s
plan to continue their efforts, even after the current conflicts start
fading into history.
You can add your picture and words of support to the book by going to
Scrapbook for
Soldiers.
Posted by Sinu Abraham and Reported by Amanda Mallonee