Marine support group seeks sponsors to make Thanksgiving special

DANA POINT – Thanksgiving is just a few days away, and most people anticipate a warm, wonderful holiday surrounded by family and friends. Still, not everyone gets to celebrate Thanksgiving seated at a beautifully decorated table, laden down with homemade dishes.

There are 175 single Marines who will remain at Camp Pendleton to maintain readiness as the Nation's first responders and cannot travel home to be with loved ones. There will be empty chairs at tables across the U.S.

To ease the loneliness of this time, the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group is seeking the public's help. By sponsoring a Marine or Marines for Thanksgiving, donors give them a chance to be together with their brothers-in-arms and celebrate.

After dinner in the Chow Hall, they will go to Task Force Grizzly to continue their festivities. To add something special to the day, DPSG will be creating a swag bag for each Marine, complete with gift cards, socks, candy, and more.

The group wants to provide a fun-filled event, including poker, karaoke, and even a "Zoom Room," where the Marines can connect with their families at home. They also plan to have lots of home-baked goodies for the Marines to enjoy.

For just a $35 donation, donors can provide the Marines with a day of fun. Plus, the Stanley W. Ekstrom Foundation has generously offered to match every gift.

"It is a way for our local folks to show that our country appreciates the sacrifices they are making. Most importantly, it is a way to say 'Thank You,'" said Terry Rifkin, Chairman of the DPSG. "We hope that these American heroes will feel the gratitude of our Community for their sacrifices and service."

Individuals may donate online at https://danapoint5thmarines.com/thanksgiving/ via a secure site or by sending a check to Holiday Magic, Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, P.O. Box 471, Dana Point, CA 92629-0471.

Submitted by the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group.