VERNON It was about one year ago when Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Vernon first brought its “Letters For Soldiers” campaign to the public’s attention. Over the months that followed, the community responded overwhelmingly, expressing their support through thousands of letters and cards that were collected and shipped overseas to U.S. Military Personnel serving in Iraq. “It’s with great pride that, as we begin our second year of “Letters For Soldiers,” we invite everyone to take part in the holiday-inspired campaign that started it all “Valentines For Soldiers,” stated Terri Stellingwerf, manager of the Vernon office. To participate in “Valentines For Soldiers,” simply add your words of encouragement or support to a letter or holiday card (addressed “Dear Soldier”) and drop it off at the Vernon office, located at 546 Route 515. No postage is necessary, as the letters will be mailed by the office in one package. “We have a motivated group led by sales associate Gina Lancellotti who really put their hearts into this project,” added Stellingwerf. “Gina herself works tirelessly in soliciting letters and taking care of all the packaging that needs to be done for an overseas shipment. It’s quite a task but it’s a labor of love.” The letters do not go unnoticed. Throughout last year, soldiers often wrote back expressing their gratitude for the show of support, with many referring to the correspondence as a “morale booster” and a comforting diversion from the dangers they face on a daily basis. One soldier replied, “I know it helps the morale of soldiers who frequently forget the type of support we have from the states. Being based out of Germany, we are more used to arguing the merits of U.S. actions than accepting thanks for the jobs we do. I would like to express our sincere thanks.” Holiday-themed correspondence has made a distinct impression on soldiers. After receiving a Halloween-themed letter, one soldier remarked, “I just arrived here in Iraq a few weeks ago and it was nice to read your letter and envision the neighborhood kids enjoying one of my favorite holidays.”