(PCM+) From Ponca City With Love: Holiday Care Packages for America’s Heroes

Story by Pat Morris with The Ponca City Daughters of the American Revolution | Contributing Writer

The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.

On a cold December night, somewhere far from home, a young soldier opened a plain brown box that had just arrived with the mail. Inside, beneath the packing paper, were small treasures that felt like pure gold: good coffee, thick socks, a silly crossword book, a pack of peanut M&Ms, and a handwritten note from someone in Ponca City, Oklahoma who didn’t know his name yesterday, but had taken the time to say, “Thank you. We’re thinking of you.”

Back in Ponca City, that box started its journey in a much warmer place: the Senior Center on Grand Avenue.

This year, the Ponca City Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) are once again rallying the community for Operation Pioneer Spirit, a holiday project dedicated to sending care packages to U.S. service members stationed overseas during Christmas. The mission is simple but powerful; spread cheer, offer comfort, and remind our military heroes that they haven’t been forgotten by the hometowns they left behind.