Wounded Warrior Center

Wounded Warrior Center has list of needs for Iraq War Veterans
Linda McIntosh


San Diego Union-Tribune
Or Here: Veterans For America

Sep 19, 2006




CAMP PENDLETON – Therese Thomas is calling sewing groups across the country to round up a few more quilts for the beds of injured Marines.

Others are buying coffee makers and dinner plates for wounded service members recovering in the base's new Wounded Warrior Center.

The 26-bed center, which opened last month, is geared to service members in long-term rehabilitation who are out of the hospital but not well enough to return to their units.

“We're trying to make it more like home instead of military barracks,” said George Brown, executive director of the Camp Pendleton Armed Service YMCA.

The center needs household items such as wastebaskets, pictures for the walls, barbecue grills, ceiling fans and steel shelving along with sports equipment, hand tools and some furniture.

“They're not pie in the sky wishes. They're just things to keep morale up,” said Thomas, a retired police officer whose late husband served in the Navy.

Over the last few months, Thomas sewed two quilts, one featuring Marine Corps red patches along with other multi-colored squares.

“Little bits help. I'm just trying to do what I can,” Thomas said.

In a wish list put out by the center, Gunnery Sgt. Mel Greer Jr., who was wounded in 2004 and works at the center, wrote, “Everything is of value to us. Your volunteer time, any items you would like to donate or even a simple visit just to say 'Hi' is greatly appreciated.”

Thomas is trying to get the word out to community groups, schools and individuals who might want to donate items.

“Sometimes the wounded feel like they're left by the wayside and nobody cares. This is a way to show our respect and appreciation,” Thomas said.

Noncash donations for the wish list are coordinated by the Camp Pendleton YMCA.

Cash donations are handled by Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and checks should reference the Wounded Warriors Center.

Before purchasing something on the wish list, it is advisable to call the Wounded Warrior Center to confirm what they need.

Wounded Warrior Center: (760) 725-9805.

Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund: (760) 390-4930.

Camp Pendleton Armed Service YMCA: (760) 385-4921.

Donation of quilts e-address: SBC Global