Inside a modest warehouse in Angleton, Texas, the sound of tape ripping and boxes being filled tells a story of love, support, and sacrifice. Among the snacks and handwritten notes being packed are simple but powerful gestures meant to reach U.S. service members deployed far from home.
One of those volunteers, Frank Morelli Jr., understands this mission on a deeply personal level.
A Navy veteran himself, Morelli’s daughter, Kaysa, now wears the uniform. She’s currently serving as a logistics specialist aboard a U.S. Navy ship stationed in the Middle East—a deployment that was extended unexpectedly just before Easter.
“It’s difficult at times, proud at others. It’s hard,” Morelli shared, reflecting on his new role—not as a sailor, but as the parent of one.
Morelli volunteers with the Military Moms and Wives of Brazoria County, a group that assembles and ships care packages to troops stationed overseas. Among the recipients is Kaysa, who now represents the next generation of service in her family.
“I usually say it’s like a false security,” Morelli said when asked about his daughter’s deployment. “She’s not boots on the ground, but she is in harm’s way.”
To stay connected and cope with the distance, Morelli sends a care package every other month. He often includes extras for his daughter to share with other sailors who may not receive much from home.
“Even when I send my daughter a box, I’ll put extra. I’m like, ‘If it’s too much, give it to someone else,’” he said.
He hopes these boxes offer a morale boost, especially for troops who may be struggling.
“They could be low morale right now,” he said. “That’s a little pick-me-up, at least to get them through a couple of days. It helps. Some might not think so, but a little goes a long way.”
While communication with Kaysa is limited, their messages are heartfelt and simple.
“It’s usually just ‘I love you’—keep it simple,” Morelli said. “As long as I know she’s okay, I’m good.”
Through each package, Morelli sends not only comfort items, but a message: that someone back home is thinking of them, that they are not forgotten.
“I’m not saying we’re special,” Morelli humbly added. “Just remember—there are Americans in harm’s way.”
If you’d like to support deployed service members or get involved:
- Donate, volunteer, or request a care package for a loved one serving overseas by visiting MilitaryMomsAndWives.org.
- You can also connect with the group on Facebook by searching Military Moms and Wives of Brazoria County.