Southern Piping Co. of Wilson, N.C., has undertaken "Operation Comfort" to help U.S. military troops in Iraq. The company has "adopted" the 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne) and is sending packages of miscellaneous items periodically.

The brigade protects convoys, performs law enforcement activities, and helps restock and rebuild clinics and schools.

The first Southern Piping shipment arrived in July and included toothpaste, books, razors, bug spray, soap, hand wipes, and disposable cameras. A second shipment being prepared will also include medical supplies and toys for the clinics and schools.

"We're having a great time doing this, and plan to continue when the 16th rotates home in January," said Tim Williford of Southern Piping, a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association (PHCC).

Publication date: 11/15/2004