At the 55th annual State 4-H Congress, 4-H'ers, volunteer leaders, and Extension staff showed their overwhelming support of the men and women who risk their lives for our freedom. 307 people (plus Western District All Stars from 5 counties) donated 6532 items. These items included things such as junk food, batteries, and frisbees for the soldiers and diapers, toiletries, and books for the families. Congress participants also contributed 542 cards and letters of support.

Everyone who contributed to the project recieved a plastic 4-H S.O.S. cup, a magnet, a sticker, and a patriotic ribbon-and-star pin. Those who turned in their reflection sheet also received a "4-H...The Power of YOUth!" ink pen. The Central District enjoyed a pizza party because 89% of their delegation participated in Project U.S.

On Monday morning, many volunteer leaders assisted in packing the boxes and preparing them for shipping. Then, the agents and volunteer on the staging crew transported the MANY boxes to the Project U.S. warehouse.

On Tuesday, participants in the Leadership, Citizenship, and Public Speaking contests spent an hour making over 100 cards to send to the troops. After their workshop they went to the assembly, where Lt. Col. Randy Harmon (U.S.A.F., retired), the organizer of Project U.S., spoke to the delegates about how the project was started and how their contributions will go to help troops and their families. He accepted the donations on behalf of the countless men and women who will benefit.