THE HOME FRONT: 2001

The Canadian Armed Forces must also be ready to ensure the safety and security of Canada’s borders and people. The Canadian government is forging ahead in its efforts to improve its counter terrorism strategy. Thousands of Canadian Forces Personnel are involved in the effort.

Many of Canada’s men and women will be fighting terrorism overseas this Christmas. It will be a sad and lonely time for those who are guarding our country against the evils of terrorism. They will think of their families back home. Memories of other Christmases will make them yearn to be there sharing Christmas dinner and other festivities with those they love. It is up to us, the people of Canada to keep morale high. We are the ones on the “homefront” – the ones responsible for supporting our troops in their fight.

There are several things we can do to assure our troops have a Merry Christmas. Have your children draw pictures, make Christmas cards or write letters to the men and women overseas. Write letters yourself, being sure to keep them high spirited, thanking our troops for taking part in the fight against terrorism. Send Christmas cards to ensure that each man and woman receives at least one. Make small, simple crafts; send chocolate bars, boxes of chocolate or homemade jams or jellies. Be certain the items are well packed to avoid disappointment when the package is opened. When shopping, pick up toiletries such as shampoo, razors, deodorant or soap, recognizing that there are also females aboard the ships.

Other items the troops might need are packages of pens, colorful stationary and envelopes to ensure that they are able to write home. Send baked goods, fruitcake and pudding or a can of Tim Horton’s coffee to give our guys and gals a taste of Canada.

There are hundreds of other things we can do to show our troops we care. Plant a small indoor Victory Garden, wear or display a yellow ribbon; fly a Canadian or US flag, or both.

It is essential that each of us on the “homefront” support the men and women who are fighting the evils of terrorism overseas. The homefront must “stand on guard” to protect our troops from boredom, loneliness, sadness and depression. Morale must be kept high if we wish to be successful. Do your part. Send a note, letter or card to one of our soldiers today.

To write to a

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