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Adopt-A-Unit helps show support

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Thousands of local men and women are currently enrolled in the U.S. armed forces, and many are serving or have served overseas. They put themselves at risk every day, and Leander Mayor John Cowman wants them and their families to know they are appreciated.

In order to show his support, and the support of Williamson County, he is asking churches, businesses and individuals to participate in the Adopt-A-Unit program, sponsored by the Association of the United States Army.

“This doesn't mean you are for the war. This doesn't mean you're against the war,” said Cowman. “It means you're for the troops.”

The program allows cities, businesses, organizations or individuals to “adopt” a unit and show support any way they know how.

“Adopt-A-Unit is what you want to make Adopt-A-Unit,” said Jonus Miller, Chief of Staff for U.S. Congressman John Carter's office. “It's a way of just supporting your troops.”

Miller said that after Soldier Appreciation Day at the Dell Diamond, people kept asking him if they could do more for the troops. He found Adopt-A-Unit while looking for an answer to those questions. He said the program fit because it connected concerned citizens with soldiers, but doesn't necessarily require a huge commitment of time or money.

“It's a program that supports the troops in any way you want,” he said.

In the past, groups that have participated in the program have written letters, sent care packages and hosted barbecues for local soldiers.

Fort Hood has listed a number of ideas for participants online at www.fort hoodausa.org/great_ideas.shtml.

Cowman said the cause is important to him because he wants to show soldiers how much Leander cares, and open the city up to those returning from war.

“I want to make sure we hold up our end of the bargain,” he said. “Leander is welcoming them no matter what.”

Cowman encouraged those who participate to show support not only for those in uniform, but for the friends and family who support them. He said that sometimes a letter from a stranger can be more comforting for someone whose loved one is overseas than a traditional support group.

For more information on the Adopt-A-Unit program, visit www.forthoodausa.org.

E-mail amy@hillcountrynews.com

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