LAKEPORT
Operation Tango Mike marks 20 years
What began as a gesture to show support to a few friends deployed to Afghanistan in 2003, became a twenty year effort and has supported thousands of military personnel, Operation Tango Mike.
Operation Tango Mike translates from military jargon to Operation Thanks Much. The organization is an all volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit.
Currently, 85-100, and sometimes more, care packages are sent every month to troops in the Middle East, Africa, aboard ships and in many other countries.
Military families are supported as well. Many volunteers that support Operation Tango Mike have volunteered their assistance with home repairs, transportation and more.
With no base or military installation in the local area, folks who wish to support troops and their families gather via Operation Tango Mike. Military families are welcomed and are provided with emotional support, knowing that they and their loved ones are appreciated.
On the third Thursday of every month, volunteers gather at 6 p.m. at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th Street, Lakeport, to prepare care packages for deployed military personnel.
Monthly shipping costs of $2000, and items for care packages, are all covered through donations and fundraising. No government funding is provided for shipping or goods.
“Forget politics, support our troops,” is the mantra that has helped ensure that all are welcomed and appreciated at Operation Tango Mike functions. The effort does not involve politics and exists to support our troops and their families.
Troops express appreciation in thank you messages that are sent to Operation Tango Mike.
Staff Sergeant Landerman recently wrote, “I wanted to say thank you! All of us here really do appreciate what the members of Operation Tango Mike have done for us. Especially during this holiday season. I know many of the airmen living in the dorms with no family here especially appreciated it. I remember being that airman. Deployed during the holidays surrounded by people I’ve just met. Far from home and feeling lonely. I know the airmen here felt the same way I did. So again, thank you.”
The public is invited and encouraged to help celebrate and commemorate twenty years of community effort. To date, more than 25,000 care packages have been shipped.
On March 16, at 5 p.m., there will be an open house at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th Street, Lakeport. It will be an opportunity to pay a visit and learn more about Operation Tango Mike, read letters from troops, browse photos and get acquainted.
Delicious food will be served. Catering is generously being donated by Rosemary Martin of Rosey Cooks, LLC.
The regular monthly packing party will take place following the open house, and as holiday items are shipped one month in advance to ensure timely delivery, the March care packages will be Easter boxes.
For further information or to add someone to the care package recipient list, please call 707-349-2838 or e-mail operationtangomike@mchsi.com.
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KELSEYVILLE
In remembrance of Jerry Marquis
This Sunday, March 19, we will be gathering with the family and friends of Jerry Marquis, who was a valued supporter of Ely Stage Stop. He is loved and will be missed by all who knew him. There will be light refreshments. You’re welcome to bring a bottle of wine that Jerry would have liked.
Sunday, March 19. Arrival at 1:30 PM. Ceremonies at 2:30 PM. Gather at Ely Stage Stop, 9921 Soda Bay Rd (Hwy 281), Kelseyville, along with the Rotary Club, Trowel and Trellis, Jerry’s family, and the Lake County Historical Society, to honor Jerry Marquis.
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