Pat,

I would like to take a minute to thank you for all that you have done as a part of International Crisis Aid (ICA) over the past two weeks since arriving in Haiti.  As we transit ted down here with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, I tried to imagine what our role would be in assisting the Haitian people and prepare my men accordingly.  Shortly after our helicopter arrived, I realized that there is nothing I could have done to prepare them because the majority of the problems we faced were outside of our control.  For all the power the United States Marine Corps brings to bear, we remained unable to get the supplies to the people who needed it most.  The first 24 hours on the ground proved frustrating and for the first time in my 16 years, I began to question our ability to accomplish our assigned mission.  That was when God answered our prayers by gracing us with you and ICA.

Over the next 14 days, I was amazed at the integrity, dedication and tireless work ethic you and your organization have demonstrated (interested in becoming a Marine?).  Your ability to locate the people in need and get them the supplies they so desperately needed has been nothing short of remarkable.  The partnership that our Marine unit had formed with ICA has become the blueprint for success in this devastated region.  Our ability to bring the resources ashore and provide the necessary security, coupled with your complete devotion to an efficient, honest and timely distribution has saved thousands of lives and will positively shape and influence generations in Haiti.

The fact that you were able to do all this with only a couple of workers on the ground is nothing short of a miracle.  It sets ICA apart from other NGO's and is something you should be proud of.  I can't help but wonder what else you are capable of and how many lives you will save and change in the future with continued support through donations.  I have become such a believer, that effective immediately, my donations will begin to ICA through our annual Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).  I am encouraging others to do the same.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't beg ICA to remain in Haiti for the foreseeable future and continue to set the example for the other NGO's.  As media coverage of the devastation dwindles, people must be reminded that the work down here is far from over.  I will continue to pray that  donations will allow you  to remain here and continue your great work.

As for me, I am grateful for our time spent together and what we were able to accomplish.  Please know that I will remain one of the biggest advocates of the ICA and consider your organization a true gift from God.  I wish you the best and will stay forever in your debt for the magnificent example of humanity you have shown us all.

God Bless,
Gunnery Sergeant Joshua Wruble
22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit