I want to express my appreciation to Barry and all of the other athletes for taking part in the wonderful program! The assistance helped lift some burdens from our shoulders during this most challenging time. I am pleased to report that after 20+ surgeries, Josh is now receiving outpatient rehabilitation. He is able to stand and walk for short amounts of time, but is progressing to what we expect will be a near full recovery.

Steven P. Hooker
Ph.D.

Thank you for all that you do to support our soldiers and their families. We are comforted by your actions

Amos and Bettie White

Please pass along to Barry Zito this veteran's thanks for the great work that he is doing. I was just recalling today a dear friend who was shot down and killed in Vietnam leaving a young wife and a very young daughter. Our troops need all the help that we can give them and their families. How nice it is to see someone like Barry, who would seem to have the best things in life at this time, give his own time and money to those who really need that support.

Well Done, Barry!

Charles K. Roberts
Captain, U.S. Navy (Ret.) Monterey, CA

My name is Kris, wife of active duty army officer...and crazed baseball fan (he is not I) just saw the blurb on hannity and combs about the charity you have. Thanks so much for even thinking of us. IT makes me so mad to see that Cameron diaz's scuffle with a photographer will make bigger headlines than what any troop is going through over there. It is America though so thanks for keeping perspective and remembering those who sacrifice so people like you can live the American Dream.

Kris Angerthal



My Name is SGT Scott Platts I am stationed at Ft Hood, Texas and I'm an Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran. I would like to thank Barry Zito and the rest of the Major League Baseball players that are participating in the strikeout for troops campaign.

It is great to see that there are professional athletes out there that appreciate what we do. I have a 17.5 years combined military service and this is by far the greatest support I have seen from any of the professional athletes.

I will forever be grateful for the support they show to us service members and their families --especially my wounded comrades. In closing I would like to say that I am sure that all the men and woman will appreciate all they are doing. Thanks again,

SGT Scott Platts
I am a 21 year old military wife, with two very young children. My husband, 23, has served in the Middle East during this war, as well as Tsunami Relief and countless other missions in his almost six short years of service. Though he has never been admitted to any hospital for wounds sustained during his service, he has, unfortunately, been hit in the chest with enemy fire, I thank God everyday for that Kevlar vest.

My older brother grew up adoring the A's. I've always been a Yankees girl myself, which is how I found out about this organization. When Alex Rodriguez signed on, I saw the press release and had to find out more. This is a wonderful thing you are doing, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I have many friends who have either not returned from "The Sandbox," as we military wives refer to it, or have returned seriously injured. A lot of people don't really understand what's going on in a war zone, but unfortunately, I do, and Barry Zito will always hold a special place in my life for getting Strikeouts For Troops started.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you are doing.

Megan

I came across the Strikeout for Troops organization while reading the USA Today paper today. I'm a huge baseball fan and gained great satisfaction from seeing that pro baseball players, like Barry Zito, take the time to help our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines.

I'm a retired Army Officer, and I have served in Bosnia, Qatar, and most recently in Iraq form 2003-2004. It's a tough life over there for all of our Servicemen, but they stand up and do it.

It's great that the baseball community has come together to provide some support to those who are wounded. It's tough on many of them and their families during their recovery and just knowing that there are organizations like this out there to help is a blessing. I felt so strong about wanting to be a part that effort that I immediately sent a contribution to Strikeout for Troops through the website.

Good luck with this, you must be making countless Servicemembers and their families day, every day. Keep it up.

Sincerely,

Tom Keith

I just had to drop a line and let ya'll know just how much we appreciate this kind of support.

I had no knowledge of this effort founded by Barry Zito until today when logging on to AirForceWives.com and reading the blog about the Astros bullpen joining this effort. Suffice it to say that not only was I rendered speechless by such an overwhelming show of support and generosity by Mr. Zito and the A's, but to see that my guys from Houston were teaming up, well I was moved to tears. I'm from the Houston area so the Astros are my special guys. However, finding out about Mr. Zito and the A's, well looks like I'm going have start some serious rooting for Oakland!

My husband, MSgt Willard E. Brown, USAF Security Forces, is now deployed to Iraq and will spend the next year there. We are stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas, about 150 miles west of San Antonio, which is where two large military hospitals are located, Wilford Hall at Lackland AFB and Brooke Army Medical Center.

In addition to sending in donations to the cause when I can, I would love to be involved in any projects you may have upcoming at those two facilities, such as special dinners around the holidays or Christmas activities, etc. My husband has been so blessed to have served now almost 20 years in the Air Force and loss of life or limb has not personally affected our family. But our thoughts and prayers go out every day to our military families who are facing such devastating situations, and we are excited at finding new ways to help them.

Please express my heartfelt thanks on behalf of all military members and their families.

Sincerely,

Carla J. Brown
Del Rio, Texas

Just saw your website concerning Stikeouts for Troops. My 25 year-old son is currently a Marine Helicopter pilot. As a former division 1 ballplayer from Minnesota, I support your efforts. Please continue to promote your group with all major league clubs, urging all pitchers to join your efforts. Thank you.

Respectfully,

David Borg

I just want to thank all the baseball players who are donating money to help our troops. This proves that many major league ball players are outstanding Americans.

Michael George Blandford
Dayton, OH

Amazing work with the Strikeouts For Troops event! I came up from Sacramento to support the cause & was not dissapointed. My dad is a green beret & often talks about the need to take care of veterans upon their return from action, thus Strikeouts For Troops hits close to home. Please pass my gratitude on to Barry & all of those responsible for last nights event.

GREAT WORK. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Brian J Estenson

I couldn’t believe that Barry Zito started this program to begin with, but seeing that he has doubled his pledge for the 2006 season brought tears to my eyes. It is inspiring to see a guy like Zito recognizing the importance of his contribution. Way to get your fellow A’s and ex-A’s involved; I may even ease up on Manny for a while after seeing that he’s contributing this year. I have never been prouder to be a Barry Zito fan. Thank you, Barry, for playing the way you do on the field and being the man you are off it.

Aly Roth



I attended your event last night at the Pyramid Alehouse. I thought that it was a wonderful event and a lot f fun as well. I especially enjoyed the bar tenders.You could not have picked a better group of guys. Joe Blanton, Huston Street and Swish were fantastic bar tenders. I wish you continued success with your organization. I would be interested in attending any future event that you maybe holding. Thank you very much for such a good time. Best wishes,

Lisa Ruchenski



As an A’s fan and the mother of a Navy pilot, (who grew up going to A’s games and part of ‘the bleacher creatures’), I would like to thank Barry Zito and the players participating in this program. I wish we could get the word out to more markets and especially at the All Star Game to bring attention to these special contributions, and to these “All Star” pitchers. If there is anything I could do, please let me know. Thanks,

Brenda Schmiegel



I wanted to write your organization to say THANK YOU. This is a very amazing program that will not only provide a lot of help for our wounded, but also put a smile on the faces of our troops now, to know that there are still people in this Nation that support us and want to help!

I am a US Marine Reservist out of Washington DC, and so is my husband, Brian, he and many of our friends just began a deployment and it is very refreshing, and comforting to know that people with so much are willing to donate to help our combat wounded. This will not only help them receive care, but provide a great boost in morale. THANK YOU with all my heart,

Lcpl B. Renee Alden



My name is Specialist Stephanie Browning. I am an MP in the US Army and was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq this past October. I am still being treated at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Tx. I'm a huge fan of Mr. Zito, the A's, and baseball in general.  
 
I've just discovered the Strikeouts For Troops project. I cannot begin to tell you what a wonderful feeling it is to know that there are people out there who are complete strangers, yet are doing so much to support us. Even a simple prayer for someone you've never even met takes a special kind of person. In this case, I'm pretty overwhelmed by the fact that it's not only a stranger but someone that I've been rooting for and come to find out, is rooting for my "team" as well.
 
Thank you so much to everyone who is part of Strikeouts For Troops.  You are doing good things for good people who are in need. Your selflessness is encouragement to us all to go out and make a difference in our societies.
 
Thank you, again, for all that you do!

Spc Browning
US Army MP



As a veteran, I thank Barry Zito and all who have helped our bravest. A couple of years ago I wrote a poem addressing the Purple Heart. Great men and women have given so very much to keep us free. 'All Gave Some, Some Gave All' is something all Americans should know about. Those who receive the Purple Heart are truly our country's best. Again, I sincerely thank you for helping our military warriors.

God Bless Each Of You,

Roger J. Robicheau
Former SP5 US Army



I just wanted to share a couple thoughts regarding the "Strikeouts For Troops" program founded by Barry Zito. First of all, I am a Bay Area native and I have been an Oakland A's fan since 1986. I served a total of 8 years in active duty Army and the California National Guard. I have deployed to three combat zones: Bosnia ('98), Kosovo ('01) and most recently to Iraq ('03-'04).

I currently work for the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Peninsula Vet Center in Redwood City, CA., coordinating presentations to military units and military support organizations by "spreading the word" on well deserved benefits that the troops are entitled to.

Thank you and everyone involved with the "Strikeouts For Troops" program. I was fortunately not combat wounded when deployed, but I can speak from the soldiers who were that, they deeply appreciate any help and support this nation can offer.

Thank you again so much!

Romeo M. Horvath, B.S.
Peninsula Vet Center
Redwood City, CA



I would like to commend Barry Zito for his awesome idea of initiating this project. I'm a big fan of Barry Zito and when I heard about this, I admired him even more. Thanks Barry for having a big heart and may you continue to share your blessings. You are an inspiration!

Anne Ungco
Concord, CA


I would like to say thank you for the awesome thing that this organization is doing. Me and the rest of the troops are grateful for the support that the players are giving us. I am Marine stationed in Washington DC and if there is anything that I can do to get the word out or to just be a grassroots volunteer, I am willing to give my time and talents to this great cause.

Thank you, again,

Jamie Bennett
SSgt USMC

GOD BLESS you for your passionate, patriotic support of our troops. We owe a debt, to the heroes of the U.S. Armed Forces, past, present and future, that can never be repaid. Thank you for providing an outlet, where we can show these heroes, in some humble way, how much they mean to us and how we continue to pray for the victorious, safe return of each one of them. You and your fellow athletes are special.

Thanks again,

Greg James
Daly City CA


"Hello my name is Nicholas Lombard and I am a US soldier that just got back from Iraq. This might sound weird but I went to Pierce College between 1996 and 1998 and played baseball at the same time Barry Zito did.
 
I just want to thank him for all he is doing for the deployed soldiers of the U.S. Army, not to mention all the other MLB players that are doing the same.  
Once again thank you from a soldier who was on the front lines and keep up the good work."

Nicholas Lombard

"I just want to thank all the baseball players who are supporting Strikeout for Troops.  My son with his unit was recently (and in progress) redeployed to the states after serving in S. Korea and 1 year in Iraq.  They had the most casualties so far and it means a lot to the soldiers and families to know that people like all of you are willing to do this.  I have come to know through a support group the hurt and pain families go through with the loss of their soldier.  And for those injured, too.  I am an A's fan and it even means more to me that those professional players are willing to donate towards those who are willing to give their lives to keep us free.  God bless. Thank you"

Mrs. Hebe Bradley Anderson, CA

"I just received XM radio for Father's Day from my children. They got the radio for me so that I can listen to baseball games anytime I want. Especially the Cardinals. And as I was looking over the website I noticed the Strikeouts For Troops project.

It moved me to tears and I could not read aloud the homepage to my wife. I am a service member, a Captain in the US Army, and spent a year in Iraq from April 2003 through March 2004. And I lost four friends in combat.

Regardless, I would just like to send a "Thank you" to Barry Zito for initiating this project. As a professional I sometimes wonder if we, the Soldier, seamen, airmen, and Marines are just there, hanging out in the minds of other professionals.

Everyone stands to sing the National Anthem and renders respect to the Color Guards, maybe as a matter of protocol, maybe because they know someone who serves. But looking at this, from him, Curt Schilling, Tim Hudson, Chad Cordero, and CC Sabathia, well, frankly, I am crying right now.

Thank you, Barry."

CPT Tim Rose Ft. Benning, Georgia

"My name is Rhonda Kiser I am the wife of SGT Timothy Kiser. My husband was killed in action in Iraq on April 28, 2005.

My birthday was May 15th (6 days after Tim's funeral) and his best friend and I attended a game and had a very nice time. We are both A's fans and needed a distraction. Due to purchasing the tickets on line I today got an E mail RE: the Memorial Day Game. I had no idea that you had created such a wonderful way of supporting our troops and I am very touched. Tim was from the Bay Area and a baseball fan and I know he would be equally thankful for your efforts.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for Mr. Zito and The A's organization for this type of effort will assure my husband and many others ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten. This is such a wonderful way of honoring the Men and Women who daily put themselves in harms way for freedom. Mr Zito is clearly a Patriot and a Great American! Have a GREAT season and God Bless you all."

Rhonda Kiser

"This is a great program and the Army appreciates Mr. Zito's fantastic support for our Soldiers. Thank you for creating this program."

Colonel Rich Breen

"On behalf of all of us troops over here in the International Zone, Baghdad, Iraq, I would like to thank you and all the players for donating your time, thoughts and money. We really really appreciate it! It helps us get through the day knowing that we have all that support coming from back home!!!

Hopefully we will be able to see Barry and thank him in person! Again, thank you so much!!"

Jill M Troiano, SSGT (E-5), USAF

"Mr. Zito, thank you for your generosity as it is an awesome idea and an honorable way to support our country. God Bless you!"

Brent Jurgersen (who is recuperating at Walter Reed Hospital)

"I just wanted to thank all of you who are supporting our troops.. I am a Navy wife and though my husband is not over seas I know many women who pray that their own husbands return safe and sound. This means so much to the families left behind I thank you from the bottom of my heart..."

Jessica

"I am a 100% Disabled Vietnam Veteran living in Fl. What you are doing is great. I will donate and hope you finally pitch the absolute game (27 strikeouts). Much better than perfect. Good luck and thanks for caring."

Mike Birmingham, Ft. Pierce Fl.

"Awesome idea and a wonderful cause! Go Barry!"

Timothy Cecchin


"Thank you guys for helping out the troops."

Michael Peters

"Barry, thx for doing this!!"

Ryan Marr

"Being a military member myself, it's great to know we have athletes such as yourself who can use their status to do something so meaningful and positive. Keep up the great work. I know it means the world to us. Best of luck this season!"

Barbara Fitzgerald

"We donated to the great cause you are bringing to the American people - we donated at the site and hope your appearance on H&C prompted others to donate - we will be spreading the word in the scouting community and beyond - we are very proud to see you extending yourself to our troops!"

Craig & Katharine Weissmann

"God Bless!"

Stephen E Kirk

"Way to go Barry! I saw you on Hannity & Colmes and had to contribute. You're a patriot and a hero. Thanks for your efforts on behalf of the troops and our country. Hope it's successful. Have a great season."

Christopher Dluhy

"Barry...You are the MAN! Awesome idea!"

Martin Wind

"Thank You for leading the way! Please extend my deepest gratitude to Barry and all those associated with this effort. It has not gone unnoticed, and it is much appreciated."

Mitchell Ryan

"I am a Marine Corps Vet who served from 1992-to 1996. I was part of the conflict we had in Somalia. I was honorably dischargerd after serving for years. I saw Barry on television talking about his strike outs for troops. I do support all of our troops, Im a proud Marine, and would love to help you and Barry. Please contact me if you can use my help. It would be an honor to help a very important cause as this."

Patrick Mottola

"Please let Mr Zito know that I am NOW a huge Barry Zito fan!!! What he is doing makes him a super hero in my eyes! Keep up the great work, Mr. Zito!!!a huge Barry Zito fan!!!"

Michael Eigsti

"I just say Barry Zito on Hannity & Colmes, and heard about this site. I think it is an awesome , awesome idea. I really appreciate what Barry is doing, and the whole team there working with him. I am a US Army DAV myself, and it always brings a tear to my eyes when I see someone with a passion for their country and the men and women that devote their lives and put everything on the line to defend our freedoms, and also to try and liberate other countries to have what we do as Americans. God Bless you all, and keep up the great job."

Mike

"As a military mom, it was so uplifting to hear Mr. Zito on the Jim Rome show today. I have two sons in the army. One of them is in Iraq right now. He has to wear 60 lbs. of body armor every day, and walk around with an M-16 - he is a medic.

"So many people have become so complacent with this action, and it is merely a bottom line across the news channels - but the Michael Jackson trial makes the headlines.

"Thank to you all, for taking your time, and using your high profiles for something other than personal gain. I am so grateful to all of you for trying to keep OUR troops in the foreground. Thank you, and continued blessings on your kindness."

Cindy Graves

"Dear Strikeouts For Troops, I read the article in the Los Angeles Daily News today about your organization. I was so inspired by Barry Zito's actions that I plan to organize the biggest garage sale in the history of the San Fernando Valley. I will contact all of my family and friends to make contributions. Then all local newspaper, television and radio stations to give us coverage. I hope to be contacting you in the next 2-3 months to find out where to send the check. God Bless our Troops and God Bless Barry Zito."

April Mundy

"Greetings! I just listened to Barry chat with Jim Rome on Rome's radio show, and I think what Barry is doing is absolutely awesome. I've been a huge Barry Zito fan since he came into the league, and think he sets such a good example for others in his cause. I'm a die-hard Red Sox fan, and don't miss the chance to watch Barry when he plays my Sox. Barry, you are not only a great pitcher, but even more......A great human being! Keep up the great work on and off the mound, and I look forward to watching you play. What you're doing for our troops is great thing, but really doesn't surprise me coming from you. Thanks Barry!! Take care and God Bless"

Kevin M. Bennett

"Please pass along to Barry my sincere kudos for standing for the troops by his contributions of $100 per K. Very generous, and I hope he goes over 200! As the father of a US Army Ranger who has completed two tours of duty overseas (Afghanistan and Iraq), and one of Barry's earliest fans (We saw his final Sacramento and first Oakland A's games), I see this is a stand-up gesture on his part and those he may inspire to follow."

Rick Cabral

"I am a pitcher on a 13-year old travel team called the So. Cal Ravens. Barry is my favorite pitcher and I want to help the troops. I was lucky and worked out with Barry at a youth camp. He is cool. My Mom and Dad are going to give me $1.00 for every strikeout I get and I want to give the money to the troops. I am talking to other kid pitchers to do the same. Please email or send me some information so I can help. I may be pitching today and will let you know how I do."

Cody Buckel

"I think this is a wonderful tribute to our Troops and commend Mr. Zito for creating the idea. Aside from hoping that he breaks the strikeout record for one season and that many other pitchers and position players also sign on to this worthy cause, is there anything else the average baseball fan can do on the local level to help make life a little easier on our brave men and women in the Armed Services who have sacrificed so much. I am on the opposite coast (New York Mets) and although we have not had much success to date (0-4), I am hoping that changes soon and would like to encourage the Mets and their fans to help anyway we can. Thank you very much for your time."

John McLaughlin Brooklyn

"Just wanted to say I think Barry Zito is a true American and a fine example of role model for kids and adults. This program is a fabulous idea and I hope many more players will follow his lead. I am going to make sure I make it out to the ball game this season when Barry Zito is on the mound. Watching him of Fox made me very proud of him."

Jake Barritt Walnut Creek, CA

"As a VIETNAM VET,and a proud American, not to mention a huge baseball fan, I was pleased to see the great effort Barry Zito is making for our troops. I applaud the idea and personally will spread the word. My thanks and appreciation to Barry Zito - let's hope more will follow and our troops will be well taken care of. God Bless America, and Barry Zito."

Rick Theobald