Christmas pens for the troops

[Simomatra]

I am now accepting contributions towards the troops Christmas, please send a PM or email for my address.

All donations will be posted here.

Lets make this a great Christmas for our troops

[FXST01]

I know from personal experience that these pens and pencils go down well with the troops. Still got mine from 09 :).

Now you know that we have troops in other parts of the world as well as Afghanistan, I only say this as I'll be in one of the other parts soon :D

Blessed are the pen turners.

[Woodkid]

Ill send you a pen when i send the mystery box. :U

[minus459]

Count me in Sam, will pm you shortly.

undies

[Simomatra]

I know from personal experience that these pens and pencils go down well with the troops. Still got mine from 09 :).

Now you know that we have troops in other parts of the world as well as Afghanistan, I only say this as I'll be in one of the other parts soon :D

Blessed are the pen turners.


Good to see the pens are appreciated.

Stay safe and return home soon, I have ex navy friend that lives in the same suburb as you.

Thank you to all that have sent emails I will post picture as soon as they arrive.

Please keep the pens coming.

[sundowner]

Bruce a couple more going over today

[Simomatra]

Bruce a couple more going over today


many thanks graham have just replied to your PM :2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Come on Aussies, please give to this worthy cause.

A big thank you to Don Nicholas, a member from over the pond in USA for donating 15 pen kits to the troops. :clap::clap::clap::clap::clap:

Well done Don it is much appreciated and I am sure the troops will love to get a pen which was donated from the US. :2tsup::2tsup:

Please contact me if you can make a donation of a pen, pens, pencils or kits to make them with.

[David Mitchell]

Yes ,I will send you some pens:cool:
Regards
David:2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Yes ,I will send you some pens:cool:
Regards
David:2tsup:

Many thanks David, much appreciated. PM sent

[Rum Pig]

Hay Sam I would love to be part of this but shed time is a problem when do you need them by.

[Simomatra]

Hay Sam I would love to be part of this but shed time is a problem when do you need them by.

Justin

thanks mate if you can get shedd time I would like them no later than early November to alow time for them to get to the troops by Christmas

Sam

[FXST01]

It is possible to have some sent to our MFO troops on OP MAZURKA? :)

They are but a small contingent in the bigger picture.

[Simomatra]

It is possible to have some sent to our MFO troops on OP MAZURKA? :)

They are but a small contingent in the bigger picture.

I have sent a private email looking for details please look in your email in box.

On another matter Graham aka Sundowner has 20 kits in transit to me can someone volunteer to make these kts up, I am have cataract surgery this week so will be unable to turn them, I will be out for ablout 6 weeks with both eyes being done and no dust needed.

[gidgee 1]

Hi Simomatra
I would be able to do them,I may not have them back to you for a couple of weeks.
cheers
gidgee 1

[Simomatra]

Hi Simomatra
I would be able to do them,I may not have them back to you for a couple of weeks.
cheers
gidgee 1

Many thanks Matthew, they will be coming your way :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[cookie48]

All well my end if you want more done.
Cookie

[Simomatra]

All well my end if you want more done.
Cookie

thanks Cookie if we get another donor I will let you know :2tsup::2tsup:

[Simomatra]

27 pen went off today to the troops in Operation Muzaka. :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[PenTurner]

Great news, of those pens, hope they will be encouraged by them, Amos:):2tsup::2tsup:

[Grommett]

I have some free shed time if you need more done.

[Simomatra]

OK getting near time to send the pens so that they will get there by Christmas

Please if you can donate more completed pens or send some kits please do we have turners will to give their time to turn them.

I have received an email from Chaplain Steve with new addresses to send too.

This time we will be making sure that the pens get to all three services over there with the help of the Chaplains

Please make this a Christmas to remember for the troops

I plan to send the pens no later than the 10th November after that we will be collecting for Anzac Day

Thank you once again to all that have contributed :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[David Mitchell]

Hi Sam,
I will send some more pens before the 10th of November:cool:
Regards
David

[Simomatra]

Hi Sam,
I will send some more pens before the 10th of November:cool:
Regards
David

Many thanks David, much appreciated :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[Simomatra]

I have some more kits donated need a turner, post here if you can assist or send me a PM or email

[FXST01]

The 27 pens for OP MAZURKA have arrived and currently writing an article for the contingent newsletter, (a copy will be sent to defence newspapers and to the forum). No one else here knows about them yet and I am planning on handing them out pens on Christmas Day (so everyone gets at least one present) and presenting one each to the Force Commander (Kiwi) and Force Sergeant Major (Canadian).

Rest assured, photos will be taken, especially the presentation to the foreigners :D.

[David Mitchell]

Hi Sam,
Said I would have more pens by the 10th ,but have a few other projects that have taken longer than I thought.:((
Will have them to you by the end of this week.Sorry for the delay:wink:
Regards
David:2tsup:

[Simomatra]

The 27 pens for OP MAZURKA have arrived and currently writing an article for the contingent newsletter, (a copy will be sent to defence newspapers and to the forum). No one else here knows about them yet and I am planning on handing them out pens on Christmas Day (so everyone gets at least one present) and presenting one each to the Force Commander (Kiwi) and Force Sergeant Major (Canadian).

Rest assured, photos will be taken, especially the presentation to the foreigners :D.

Well done Eddie :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Hi Sam,
Said I would have more pens by the 10th ,but have a few other projects that have taken longer than I thought.:((
Will have them to you by the end of this week.Sorry for the delay:wink:
Regards
David:2tsup:

No problems David, I have a late package going so all the late pens will go in that box. Many thanks for your support.

[Simomatra]

Many thanks Jenny, your pens have arrived safely and will be heading OS this morning. Look as if you have even made the pen wallets as well.
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/_MG_4897.jpg

I also had a call from Don Penrose a pen turner from Victoria although not a forum member wanted to participate, thank you Don, your pens will also be going OS today

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/_MG_4898.jpg

We have broken through the 300 pen barrier for this Christmas, so to all of you who have taken part congratulations :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Four parcel weighing in just under 2 KG are on there way this morning to the troops in two locations. Many thanks to Chaplin Steve for all his assistance. :2tsup::2tsup:

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/_MG_4899.jpg

[PenTurner]

WOW!!!! great going everyone:2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:, here's praying they will be a blessing to those at the front line. Amos:):)

[Simomatra]

Huere is an Email frpm Chaplin Steve

UNCLASSIFIED

Bruce

Great work effort! Well done!

I'm sure you will hear back before too long. It may take 2+ weeks for the parcels to get to where they need to go.

Best wishes

Steve


Padre Steve

[David Mitchell]

Hi Sam,
Pens Posted today,:wink:
Regards
David:2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Many thanks David

I still have a few here that would not fit in the boxes and the Gov advise if posted by 9th December then it will arrive before Christmas.

[Simomatra]

Many thanks david they have arrived safely :2tsup:

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/_MG_4924.jpg

[Simomatra]

I recently received these 20 beauties from Nick aka Saw Dust Maker, thanks Nick

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/PC120010.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/PC120017.jpg

[Sawdust Maker]

No probs - the first pens I've made in about 9 to10 months

any idea what the black timber is?

Half the kits came from Rum Pig who could'nt fulfill his promise, so I was feeling a little guilty in not getting them done.
Think I'll try and do at least one a month in future so it's not a last minute rush

[Simomatra]

No probs - the first pens I've made in about 9 to10 months

any idea what the black timber is?

Half the kits came from Rum Pig who could'nt fulfill his promise, so I was feeling a little guilty in not getting them done.
Think I'll try and do at least one a month in future so it's not a last minute rush

Thanks Nick and RP much appreciated

The dark timber 3rd from the bottom looks like Australian Ebony and the bottom one is black palm

[Sawdust Maker]

Thanks

knew what everything else was
not sure where I got the ebony :doh: unless a sample pack from carbies

(do you have trouble with 5 and 3 as well?)

[Simomatra]

UNCLASSIFIED

Afternoon Bruce and friends

Thankyou so much for the pen I received from Simomatra through Padre Johns. Its made of longwood and sassafras.

Indeed it is a pleasure to write with and even have on my desk as it is made with true purpose and talent.

As you thank me for my service I thank you for your time and effort.

To you also, a Happy Christmas.


Regards

Danielle

[Ironwood]

Its great to hear back that the pens are being appreciated, as we appreciate what the Guys and Girls are doing over there.
Thanks for posting Sam.

[FXST01]

Hello Sam and crew,

Pens have been presented to most members (some are away) just finishing up the article and for the pictures.

All comments made ranged from WOW & No way to "I feel honoured". :)

[Touchwood]

Nice to here they brought some joy to those away from their families at this time.

Seasons greetings and Happy New Year to All
:aussie5::merrychristmas: and :fireworks:

[Simomatra]

Hello Sam and crew,

Pens have been presented to most members (some are away) just finishing up the article and for the pictures.

All comments made ranged from WOW & No way to "I feel honoured". :)

Many tanks for the update Eddie, much appreciated :2tsup::2tsup:

[cookie48]

It is nice to hear that the little we do for them is appreciated. If only we could get more members to turn a few more.

[FXST01]

Attached is the long awaited article from Aussie's MFO magazine. :D enjoy.

Thanks for the info Sam. :2tsup:

[Grommett]

Nice :)

[Sawdust Maker]

Nice

and a recipe into the bargain

[Simomatra]

WOW!

I am sure our turner have got to be smiling with that paper

Many thanks Eddie the smile on faces is wonderful, keep up the good work.

We already have a half a box of pens for Anzac Day 2012

[cookie48]

Thanks for posting that. Nice to see.

[David Mitchell]

Great to see the end result,Thanks Sam:wink:
Regards David:2tsup:

[FXST01]

Attached is the long awaited article from Aussie's MFO magazine. :D enjoy.

Thanks for the info Sam. :2tsup:

DOH, sorry I cocked up the page numbers and only posted half the article.

Here's the complete story:

[Simomatra]

Double Wow! Thanks Eddie

There you go see if you can see your pens.

As this was the first parcel I sent it only contained pens from 14 of us, I think that has now risen to 18 must check my books

Great to see a great article like that and we don't mind recipes as well Eddie.

[cookie48]

That is great. Even makes me feel a bit proud of it. Wish this was around 40 years ago.

[Sawdust Maker]

who were the original crafters?

[sundowner]

second Cookie all the way
Graham

[Simomatra]

who were the original crafters?

Woodenink, Sundowner, David Mitchel, Touchwood and Simomatra are the ones that I find in the first lot stil contributing.

Please let me know if I am wrong

[Ironwood]

I printed out that newsletter and gave a copy to one of the active RSL guys here where I live. He was very impressed that this was being done.
He was going to pin it on the local RSL noticeboard for all to see.

He was telling me they use some of the money they raise from raffles etc, to send packages to the local Guys serving oversees.
He knew first hand how much something sent from home, meant to the ones doing it tough a long way from home.

[Sawdust Maker]

...
He knew first hand how much something sent from home, meant to the ones doing it tough a long way from home.

I think that is why we do it

[Grommett]

Enuff said. Back to the shed, if it cools down. Not so long to ANZAC Day.

[PenTurner]

Very encoraging to read that article, I have sent it to the Vietnam Vets here in Boronia, Vic. I had made a small representation to them in the hope of getting some support for kits. Would be good if RSL could also chip in with some support in that area. Thanks Sam for all your efforts, and thanks to all who have contributed. It does take some self sacrafice to stop making for yourself and make something for others, I think the troops realize that and appreciate the thought and effort and the gift. Amos:):2tsup:

[Simomatra]

Woodenink, Sundowner, David Mitchel, Touchwood and Simomatra are the ones that I find in the first lot stil contributing.

Please let me know if I am wrong

Sorry NicK i missed you somehow so add Sawdustmaker, plwase accept my appologies Nick

[Sawdust Maker]

No probs

I wasn't sure whether my contribution had actually made it into the first shipment
I do recall that they were my 2nd, 3rd etc pens, now collectors items no doubt :;

[Touchwood]

As we are having some very mild summer weather at the moment (and as far as I am concerned it can staylthis way too!!!) , I will certainly make some more of the Anzac muster.

JD

[Simomatra]

As we are having some very mild summer weather at the moment (and as far as I am concerned it can staylthis way too!!!) , I will certainly make some more of the Anzac muster.

JD

Many thanks Jenny, sorry for the delay but have been back in hospital

[Simomatra]

Today I recieved on behalf of you all that supported the project this letter from Padre Simmo smd the Commanding Officer Major J A Wells.

You should all be very proud. :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

The padre also sent me some picture from Christmas that have been cleared to post, wil do in a following post

What would you wish me to do with the photo and the coin I know that Amos has the previous ones, do you want me to send them to him?

[Simomatra]

Here are some pictures from the troops part 1

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0744.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0812.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0811.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0810.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0758.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0757.jpg

[Simomatra]

Some more pictures from the troops

http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0755.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0751.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0750.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0749.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0747.jpg
http://i329.photobucket.com/albums/l369/simomatra/Pens%20for%20the%20troops%202011/DSCN0745.jpg

[Ironwood]

Today I recieved on behalf of you all that supported the project this letter from Padre Simmo smd the Commanding Officer Major J A Wells.

You should all be very proud. :2tsup::2tsup::2tsup::2tsup:

The padre also sent me some picture from Christmas that have been cleared to post, wil do in a following post

What would you wish me to do with the photo and the coin I know that Amos has the previous ones, do you want me to send them to him?


Thats really good to read the letters and see the photos. Thanks for posting them Sam. :2tsup:

I'm not 100 percent sure, but I think I recognised one of my pens in one of the photos.

As for the photo and coin, as you are the Skipper of this Ship now, my vote is for you to keep them.

[Grommett]

I agree with Ironwood. You are running the show ,so you should keep/display the responses.

[cookie48]

Ditto.
Display with pride in your house mate.
Thanks for posting the pics and letter.
Very nice to see and read.

[David Mitchell]

I agree ,you should display the badges in your place Sam,as you have been doing all the work getting the pens to the soldiers.
Great job well done Sam
Thanks for posting the letters and photos
Regards
David:2tsup:

[Touchwood]

I agree wholeheartedly - you will display it with pride! What a lovely set of photos and letters to go with it.

Keep up the good work every one!

JD:aussie5:

[Simomatra]

Many thanks everyone it wil be displayed in my home with pride for you all.

Many thanks for all your assistance without you this can not be achieved.

I have been ib contact with Pafre Simmo and he has given me the contact for the Anzac pens.

[Sawdust Maker]

better get me bvm into gear than

[Simomatra]

Just received this thank you letter of appreciation, keep up the good work ladies and gents

[cookie48]

Thanks for that Sam. Nice tosee indeed.

[FXST01]

Time for an update.

OK, I must admit I gave away my prized possession today to a young Australian lady working with the troops in the Sinai. She fell in the love with the pen and couldn't stop raving about it, i left her office before any tears arrived but heard her last word from down the hallway "gorgeous". You now have another fan over here.

I gave it to her as she felt left out on Christmas Day when there wasn't one for her, but she stoically didn't say a word about how she felt until yesterday over a lunchtime meal when pens come up in conversation.

Unfortunately the new troops now know they missed out something special and the typical 'oh where's ours?' Told them Christmas is 10 months away :D and you have to be good.

Keep up the good work. :2tsup:

p.s. I have bought a lathe now, so I may join the crew depending on how talented i become when i return.

[Simomatra]

G'day Eddie

What a man giving the prized possession to a lady:p:p

Eddied no problem I can replace it and let me know how many more you need we can do an Anzac day run for the new people.

Hoping to cover Timor and Solomans Anzac Day :2tsup: