Glendale Hts. collects cards for soldiers

The village of Glendale Heights again is collecting holiday greeting cards to mail to military personnel overseas.

This year, officials expect to send hundreds of cards to troops in Iraq and hospitalized veterans throughout Europe.

Mayor Linda Jackson came up with the idea years ago. This holiday season is the third year the Holiday Cards for Military Overseas Program has been conducted.

"I feel that it's hard to be away from your family anyway," Jackson said. "Especially when you're fighting a war over in a foreign country during the holidays."

Jackson recalls when her son was in the service and wasn't home during the holidays. She remembers it being rough for her family.

"The more they realize that we do think about them," she said, "maybe it makes it a little easier."

Jackson said the soldiers have always expressed gratitude in the past.

"They really appreciate getting something, even from somebody they don't know," she said. "It's just telling them we're thinking about them, and that we're hoping for them to return safely."

The cards should be dropped off at the village hall by Sunday.

Cards are available at various counters throughout the village hall and Glendale Heights Sports Hub, 300 Civic Center Plaza. Cards also will be available to sign at the village's tree lighting Friday, and of course, residents can make their own and drop them off at the mayor's office.