American Forces Press Service

June 18, 2008 - A congressman from Arizona has recognized a group from his state for its continued dedication to supporting the troops. U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell honored Packages From Home on June 14 for its efforts and continued support for the nation's servicemembers and for their dedication in providing care packages to U.S. troops.

Packages From Home is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.

Mitchell recognized Kathleen Lewis and Lisa Benson -- president and executive director, respectively, of Packages From Home -- in a Flag Day ceremony at the state capitol. The three participated in the unveiling of a poster-sized replica of the new Arizona state flag stamp.

Packages from Home has sent more than 140,000 packages to U.S. troops over the past four years. The group also has provided tons of equipment for the troops to use in rest centers in Iraq.