SPC Kevin Lange and some of his Operation Tango Mike supporters at the June 2011 Operation Tango Mike packing party in Lakeport, Calif. Photo courtesy of Ginny Craven.

LAKEPORT – The June packing party for Operation Tango Mike brought many special treats.

Dan Felperin of Fresh Energy Systems donated several VegHedge products for the troops. The packages contained everything necessary for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan to grow a little garden of their own.

The unique design is drought resistant and requires very little attention or water. Everyone is anxiously awaiting responses from the troops and hoping for reports of little American gardens growing.

A very special visit came when US Army Specialist Kevin Lange arrived in uniform, expressing his thanks to all who supported him during his deployment.

SPC Lange took time to attend the packing party, stating he wanted to personally meet and thank the supporters of Operation Tango Mike.

Lange spoke of the tremendous morale boost he experienced every time he received a care package. He even remarked of the smile it brought to his face to see the notes, stickers and decorations adorning each care package, knowing that children had taken the time to make his box special.

Children help decorate care packages at the June 2011 Operation Tango Mike packing party in Lakeport, Calif. Photo courtesy of Ginny Craven.

Lange also presented a flag that had been flown in honor of Operation Tango Mike at a forward operating base in the combat zone. The flag an accompanying certificate of authenticity were presented as a representation of the soldier’s gratitude.

Supporting the troops since March 2003, Operation Tango Mike is sending 80-100 care packages every month.

This effort is sustained through the generous donations of citizens and the good works of volunteers. Monthly shipping costs exceed $1,000. In that regard, fundraising is vital to sustaining this all-volunteer troop support.

Monthly packing parties continue to be held the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th St., Lakeport. Everyone is welcome.

If you wish to support Operation Tango Mike, you may place items in various “Drop Zone” barrels at businesses throughout Lake County.

Donations may also be sent to 5216 Piner Court, Kelseyville, CA 95451 or Umpqua Bank, 805 11th St., Lakeport, CA 95453.

If you have any questions or wish to add a loved one to the care package recipient list, please call 707-349-2838 or e-mail operationtangomike@mchsi.com.

SPC Kevin Lange gives Operation Tango Mike founder Ginny Craven a hug at the June 2011 packing party in Lakeport, Calif. Photo courtesy of Ginny Craven.