Gloria Godchaux of Operation: MOM was interviewed by the chairman of the Vietnam Veterans Group of San Quentin to find out what prisoners can do to support American troops overseas.
How did Operation: MOM come about?
Operation: MOM began in 2001 when Dotty Selmeczki and I began to look for an active military parent support group. It was imperative for me, because immediately after 9/11, my son, who is a U.S. Marine, was deployed to an unknown destination called “Somewhere.” At the time, Dotty and I didn’t realize that thousands of other parents out there also needed a safe place where they could share their worries for their loved ones serving in the military. Since then, Operation: MOM has branched out across various communities establishing support groups wherever they are needed.
What challenges have you faced?
I would say the most challenging and heart-wrenching form of care that we’ve had the privilege of giving is standing beside those families who have lost their serviceperson while they gave the ultimate sacrifice of their lives serving our country.
How did Operation: MOM get connected with VVGSQ?
When Operation: MOM began its grassroots efforts, we had to decide what other, if any, types of organizations we would align ourselves with. In 2003, we met the VVGSQ, which have been instrumental for nearly 10 years in supporting Operation: MOM by providing funds to help active duty military families and being an integral part of sending “A Little Touch of Home” care packages to our troops around the world.
What’s next for Operation: MOM and the VVGSQ?
In 2013, Operation: MOM and the VVGSQ will be supporting an Air Force unit whose mission is to drop off supplies to Army and Marine ground forces. They have asked for specific items, such as green socks and Desert Sand military T-shirts, which were already purchased with donated funds from the VVGSQ.
How can men other than San Quentin veterans get involved with Operation: MOM?
We fill “A Little Touch of Home” care packages with things like snacks, powdered beverages, washcloths, fingernail clippers, and other hygiene items, so if they wanted to donate those types of items, it would be greatly appreciated. Postage for all the boxes gets pretty costly as well, so stamps are well received too.
Note: San Quentin staff and prisoners wanting to help Operation: MOM support the nation’s troops can collect snack items, hygiene items, and postage now. Signs will be posted later in housing units directing where to leave donations.
Persons in the community can donate by contacting the VVGSQ’s chief sponsor, Lt. K. Evans, at San Quentin State Prison. (415) 454-1460 ext. 5205.
