Christmas shoeboxes for veterans

Editor's note: There are many who quietly serve in their communities without fanfare or accolades. Mormon Times asked for suggestions of people who have holiday service traditions to share their stories.

A little bit of Christmas will come on Dec. 12 for about 200 veterans at the VA hospital in Long Beach, Calif., and several dozen in the Cabrillo Rehabilitation Center in San Pedro, Calif.

Items for the wrapped shoeboxes come from the Santa Margarita California Stake in conjunction with the American Legion's Saddleback Valley Post No. 862, said Dannee Clyne, with the Santa Margarita California Stake's public affairs.

\"We write personal notes of thanks expressing our appreciation for their sacrifice and service,\" Clyne said.

Then the cub scouts with pack 623 help deliver the boxes.

\"We walk down the halls singing Christmas carols and handing these boxes out,\" Clyne said. I've never gone without crying the whole time.\"

Then, the scouts and veterans meet in the cafeteria area for a short program.

\"We are honored to help in this effort and our stake is so supportive,\" Clyne said. \"The economy is hard for everyone and to see these people pull together in this service is so heartwarming.\"