To honor and support U.S. military men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as veterans at home, the West Virginia University Press recently sent 50 care packages containing some of its books and music to soldiers overseas, as well as veteranshospitals in West Virginia.

Among the works sent included CDs of Appalachian fiddle and classical music, such asThe Edden Hammons Collection,in addition to John BeallsWondrous Love: Appalachian Chamber Music.Also, one copy of every fiction work from the Vandalia Press (an imprint of the WVU Press) was included in the care packages. These include works such as Richard CurreysLost Highwayand Lee Maynards novelsCrumandScreaming with the Cannibals.

Many of the soldiers who received the packages, especially those overseas, have responded with enthusiasm and appreciation, sending letters of thanks and interest to the Press.

One Sergeant First Class wrote,Thank you so much for the care package. The books and CDs will be enjoyed by all. Your support is very much appreciated.

The WVU Press is honored to have the opportunity to help our soldiers in any way possible,said WVU Press Director Patrick Conner.

Conner noted that the Press chose to donate books and music from West Virginia authors because the worksprovide a positive way to create community for our soldiers.One soldier confirmed this by saying,I passed the books and CDs on to one of your owna great soldier from West Virginia. He was excited to have a little piece of home.

The veteranshospitals receiving the donations included the West Virginia State Veterans Home and Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in Beckley and in Huntington.

For more information, visitwww.wvupress.comor call 1-866-WVUPRESS.