Dear Operation Santa;
 
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the care packages. I have received approximately sixty boxes over the past several days and it was a very nice surprise. I will most definitely share your gift with my fellow Marines and Sailors. My plan is for the Commanding Officer and I to distribute the stockings to our Marines and Sailors on Christmas Eve. Your generosity is truly appreciated and will ensure each member of this command has a joyous Christmas.
 
If you did not know 1st Maintenance Battalion (Rein) is permanently assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group located at Camp Pendleton, California. We have been deployed for three months of a seven month deployment. The Marines and Sailors are doing a superb job. Their morale is extremely high, because of the love and support we receive from family and friends such as you. Our battalion is responsible for providing combat logistic support for the coalition forces throughout Al Anbar Province.
 
On behalf of the warriors from 1st Maintenance Battalion (Rein) thank you for your support and may you and your loved ones have a joyous and safe holiday season.
 
Semper Fidelis,
 
John Armstead
Sgt.Maj USMC