OPERATION SOCCER BALL
Helping To Re-Build Hope In Iraq
Soccer Balls Given Away As of       June 4th, 2009 :  5,950
+  300 uniforms & have fully outfitted
7 soccer teams in the Al Kut area

My Contact Info

Pictures From Iraq
(Updated 12/1)
Information About Those Who Have Helped

Comments For and From Daniel
Getting anew ball
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Daniel and Iraqi Kids       Soldier giving soccer ball

Hello, my name is Daniel Merritt and I am from Stamford Connecticut, currently in Iraq serving with the 511th Military Police Company.  As a platoon leader, I am currently in charge of 30 Iraqi Police Stations. My platoon and I have constant interaction with the citizens of Iraq, a proud people who want the same things for their kids as we do for ours. We have many roles in Iraq, and one of the biggest is to rebuild this country and help its people get back on their feet. 
 
Most of the citizens living in this area are so poor they don’t have many of the daily amenities we take for granted. While they rebuild their country, the one constant source of enjoyment, of hope, is soccer. When they play soccer it consumes them, it builds them into a team, it keeps them out of trouble, it makes them forget how hard their life can be and, most of all, it gives them hope for a better tomorrow; a hope all Americans should help to build.  
 
What we’re asking, what I’m asking, is to donate deflated soccer balls to be distributed throughout the area that my platoon serves. A small investment (by our standards) can have a powerful impact on the lives of Iraqi children. Hope is a powerful thing. 

I am home from Iraq, for now, but plan on returning. My company is going to carry on with this program in my absence. Thanks to everyone for your good wishes and generous contributions.
  
Help me make a difference





We prefer deflated soccer balls sent directly but you can contribute funds if you prefer, using the secure Paypal button above. We are NOT a non-profit agency, just parents trying to help our son out. We will NEVER use any funds other than for their intended purpose, which are soccer balls and shipping. There are NO handling fees. We appreciate your support.