An Ocean County man is doing his part to support the United States military by shipping tons of personal items to troops overseas.

Bayville resident Lloyd Mullikin says that he got the idea 15 years ago when he sent a soldier a Christmas card.

The military provides soldiers the basics, but the soldiers are responsible for personal items. So Mullikin sends them all sorts of donated items, including books, puzzles and clothing. He says that he has sent items all over the globe – wherever troops are stationed.

“Everywhere. You name it. I was sending to Gitmo at one time,” he says. “Some of these areas – not like you can go to the Gap and buy something.”

All of the items are donated, but Mullikin says that he pays for the shipping. He says that he spent $8,000 last year alone. He says that he plans to send 500 boxes out this year.

“Sometimes I wonder why I’m doing this. Then you get a wonderful ‘Thank you’ note from a solider,” he says.

Mullikin says that he plans to keep sending items out as long as there are troops stationed overseas. He says that any item he doesn’t ship out, he donates to charities around Ocean County.

Anyone who wishes to make a donation can send a check to:
"Troop Mailing Fund"
VFW Post 9503
383 Veterans Blvd.
Bayville, NJ 08721

Mullikin can be emailed at lloyd.mullikin@gmail.com.