The City of Sarasota has been affiliated with the non-profit organization America Supporting Americans (ASA) since 2003. ASA was created in 1968 to provide a mechanism whereby all branches of the United States Armed Services would be “adopted” or “fostered” by an American city. The purpose of the program is to bond American communities with the military men and women who bravely serve their country by providing moral support with no political affiliations.

The City Commission in 2003 “adopted” Charlie Company, 701st Main Support Battalion, 1st Infantry of the U.S. Army, deployed to Iraq. Members of the City of Sarasota Gulf Coast Chapter of Florida Women in Government launched “Operation Shoebox” which resulted in over 120 shoeboxes full of donated items being sent to the troop for Christmas. After returning to the U.S., the Commanding Officer for Charlie Company visited Sarasota, was recognized by the City Commission, and presented a flag to the City that was flown on missions in Iraq. The flag is proudly displayed in the City Hall lobby. The Charlie Company platoon was then deployed to a base in Germany, disbanded, and members were reassigned to other companies, ending that relationship.

In 2005 the City was recruited by ASA to “foster” a troop serving in Afghanistan by stepping in for a parent city who was unable to continue. The City began its relationship with Alpha Company 2-504th Parachute Infantry Division (82nd Airborne) early in the troop’s deployment to Afghanistan. The Sarasota Association of City Employees for Service (ACES) stepped forward as coordinator, launched “Operation Toiletries for Troops,” and with overwhelming employee and community support, several shipments were sent to the troop.

Upon the redeployment of the troop back to its home base of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in May 2006 the City was honored to give a “hero’s welcome” to the Commanding Officer of Alpha Company and the three paratroopers who accompanied him when they came to Sarasota. The Commanding Officer presented a plaque to the City Commission in appreciation of the City’s support. The group also visited St. Martha’s School to thank the kids for the letters they had written. A couple hundred students stood outside the school waiving American flags when the paratroopers arrived.

Alpha Company redeployed to Iraq in spring 2007. The new Commanding Officer expressed his desire to continue the troop’s relationship with Sarasota during this deployment, and the City Commission passed a Resolution “adopting” Alpha Company. The troop is expected to be in Iraq for a 15 month deployment.

City employees continue to support Alpha Company by collecting donations of goods for shipments to the troop in Iraq. The City is thankful for the sacrifices these men and women in the armed services are making as a volunteer force defending freedom and the American way of life.

City of Sarasota Resolution

Herald Tribune Article

America Supporting Americans

"Letters Home" at the Van Wezel - To See Excerpts from the performance

Tampa Bay News 10 Article About Alpha Company Gift Wrapping Party

Photos From Alpha Company Gift Wrapping Party

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