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Lending a Helping Hand

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 17, 2009

MacDILL AIR FORCE BASE - Operation Helping Hand recently celebrated its fifth anniversary.

The Military Officers Association of America began the project in May 2004. With an influx of wounded and injured military personnel from Iraq and Afghanistan, and a large number coming to the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, it became evident that help was needed.

After discussions with the medical staff at the hospital, the Tampa chapter began educating civic groups and getting contributions to help the military patients and families.

Strong support also came from the International Coalition, which is made up of representatives from more than 60 countries at U.S. Central Command at MacDill Air Force Base.

Retired Navy Capt. Robert J. Silah, president of the Tampa chapter and chairman of Operation Helping Hand, said that during the next five years, the organization provided support to more than 400 active-duty patients along with about 650 family members.

Many of Operation Helping Hand's volunteers have been with the project for five years.

Donations may be sent to MOAA Operation Helping Hand, PO Box 6383, MacDill Air Force Base FL 33608.

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