Mrs. Linda Paladino, a second grade teacher at Durand Elementary School, was recently presented an American flag which was flown over the Headquarters of the Multi-National Corps in Iraq in gratitude for Durand’s activities in support of troops there.

  The flag flew over the headquarters on Sept. 6, 2007 to honor Durand School's campaign to send supplies and phone cards to the troops in Iraq. The flag and certificate were presented by Captain Miguel Dc who has just returned from a tour in Iraq, said Paladino.

  “Happy Holidays GI Joe and GI Jane” was started three years ago after Mrs. Paladino had a conversation with her son, Captain Matthew Paladino, who was stationed in Iraq. After hearing how much the soldiers enjoy hearing from people at home, Mrs. Paladino and fellow teacher Mrs. Mary Ann Larro organized a drive to send some holiday cheer across the miles.
    Students and staff of the school donated candy, gum, toothbrushes, socks, books, cards, games and phone cards to be stuffed in Christmas Stockings and shipped overseas. More than 300 phone cards and 500 stockings, holiday bags and presents have been shipped to the troops. Each year official Durand Santas (soldiers of family members of the Durand Family) distribute the gifts. Capt. Paladino, is currently serving his second tour and will be Durand’s Chief Santa this year.
   “I was so honored they would recognize our efforts,” said Paladino. “I am sure lots of people do things to honor the troops and support them in their efforts.  And for them  to set aside a date to fly a flag to honor us… I think it shows how much they do appreciate everything everyone does for them.”  
   Paladino said the program was expanded to a February project "From Our Hearts to Yours".  The students in the school made valentines for the troops and the staff donated candy message hearts to send to Iraq. This endeavor was followed in the spring with "From Mom to the Boys".  The students in the school's service club decorated containers which were filled with cookies and sent to the troops for Mother's Day. A card was attached expressing thanks to all men and women serving in Iraq for their hard work from all the "moms" over here.

   Anyone interested in making a contribution to the third annual "Happy Holidays GI Joe and GI Jane" project can contact Paladino or Larro at Durand School.  The phone number is 856 794-6929.

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