Albert Lea — In a special tribute to American military troops, AmericInn of Albert Lea shipped care packages to soldiers serving overseas during a recent event at the hotel coinciding with Veterans Day.

The event was part of a nationwide Veterans Day initiative by AmericInn hotels resulting in the preparation and shipping of several thousand care packages to troops deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq and other bases worldwide.

“The participants in this initiative gave generously of their time, demonstrating inspiring and heartwarming support for members of America’s military,” said Marsha Rafdal, general manager of AmericInn of Albert Lea. “We are proud to be part of this nationwide program by AmericInn expressing gratitude for the service of military members deployed overseas.”

The care packages prepared by AmericInn included such items as food treats, personal care items, clothing, games and donated gift merchandise. AmericInn hotels around the country reported that the gift box packing events attracted participation from a broad spectrum of citizens in their communities, including many local businesses, student groups, Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, church groups, retirees and competing hotel employees. The Blue Star Mothers, a national troop support organization, also participated through local chapters.