The Care Package project event to honor U.S. troops at Ocean Pines Yacht Club on October 8, 2023 was a tremendous success. 

The event was made possible through the sponsorship of Steel Blu Vodka, Matt Ortt Companies, Big Wave Marketing, Fully Promoted branded apparel, and Ocean Pines Get Involved.

Steel Blu, based in Delaware, donates 10% of the company's profits toward care packages for those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. With those funds, the company purchases nonperishable goods – such as toiletries, snacks, and office supplies – and packages them to send to our troops with the help of local volunteers.

Chelsey Chmelik, a Matt Ortt Companies manager, helped to organize the event.

"We are thrilled to support our troops and make a difference through the Steel Blu Vodka Care Package Project," Chmelik said. "This event is a testament to our commitment to giving back to the community and expressing our gratitude to the brave individuals who serve our country."

The event was scheduled to run from 11 am through 4 pm. This reporter arrived around 1:30 pm to photograph the event, only to have Matt Ortt say, "Joe, you missed it. We had maybe 150 people show up and the packing work was done in a little over an hour. A terrific turnout."

A fair number of folks were still around, including board members Rick Farr and Elaine Brady, and friends.

Each item on the Missing Man Table represents the emotions and feelings reserved for those who did not come home. The ceremony symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit. All Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call to serve and fought for our freedom with honor. 

Missing Man Table – War Memorial Center

A SteelBLU Voda representative presented a check for $10,000 to cover the costs.

Finally!