My son Jimmy Ceballos recently returned home after serving three tours of duty in Iraq. This holiday season will be very special to our family.

However, I have visited a local grocery store several times only to find a collection box for items donated to the troops for holiday care packages totally empty. Well, sometimes it had trash thrown in it.

My heart aches for the troops who are away from their families especially during the holidays. My son was fortunate that we were able to send him regular care packages.

Please remember the troops in any way possible this holiday season. It is heartbreaking that my son is now home and sees or shall I say does not see the support for our troops that was once so strong.

Please donate items, write a letter, say a prayer on behalf of our troops. Yes, people, the war still exists as you sit there and sip on your morning Starbucks or climb into your cozy bed!