The American Legion is renewing its fundraising efforts for the holiday season to purchase comfort items for troops recovering in U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units around the world through its Operation Comfort Warriors campaign.

“The government does a good job of providing the necessities,” said American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “Through Operation Comfort Warriors we have been able to provide items that usually don’t appear in the budget, such as personal sweat suits, I-Pods, DVDs, phone calling cards and other comfort items. The American Legion is challenging its members and friends to continue giving to those who have already given us so much.”

The American Legion has already raised more than $215,000 for Operation Comfort Warriors since its inception last December. Upon taking office in August, Commander Hill set a goal to raise an additional $100,000 by year’s end. Donors can make online contributions by visiting www.legion.org/ocw or by sending a check to Operation Comfort Warriors, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Administrative and promotional costs for Operation Comfort Warriors are paid by The American Legion, allowing 100 percent of the donations to be spent directly on the troops.

“Some people think that expecting $100,000 during an economic recession is too lofty a goal. I don’t,” Hill said. “Americans are generous and what better way is there to show your holiday spirit than to remember those who have served and are still serving?”

With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.