STOW, Ohio — Jeremy McIntire knows a simple act can mean a lot, especially for those who are serving the country overseas in unfamiliar surroundings.
"Just receiving something in the mail, it kind of gives you a nice boost of morale," McIntire said. "Letting someone know that you are thinking of them, and that you do truly thank them for the sacrifices they are making on behalf of the United States.”
For the last three years, this Purple Heart recipient and Iraq veteran turned Stow City councilman has been collecting handmade Valentine's Day cards to send to troops who are deployed overseas.
“As someone who has served and someone who has been in that position, I do appreciate from the bottom of my heart what they are doing," he said.
He calls this initiative “Operation Valentines Day” and his goal is to collect and send as many cards as possible.
“This is just a few valentines that we contribute," he said "But just knowing the time that people put into it, to me it is very sincere.”
If you are interested in making a card, you can drop them off or mail them to Stow City Hall by Jan. 29.
"Tailor your message to thank them for that service and sacrifice that they are making," he explained. "Just a personalized message in and of itself means a lot.”
McIntire requested no glitter or candy on the cards.