Watch CBS News

Providing the Basics for Troops

DANVILLE, Calif. (KCBS) Thousands of U.S. Marines serving in Afghanistan are getting toothpaste, lip balm and other essentials, thanks to the efforts of a Danville man.

Aaron Negherbon was surprised to learn that Marines have to buy their own foot powder, baby wipes and other essential items that are critical for troops operating in a desert environment.

He sent a 45 pound care package to a longtime friend, who is now a Marine Corps captain in Afghanistan.

Click to listen

Podcast

And that's where Negherbon got the idea to start Troops Direct.org.

"If we can provide that Marine with that sprinkle of foot powder to make them run a little bit faster," said Negherbon. "Or, that protein powder, such as the Muscle Milk that's donated from CytoSport, which makes them more alert when they're facing an enemy, we're increasing the chances of that soldier returning home to their friends and their family, especially their parents."

Negherbon said in just a few months, Troops Direct has already shipped out about a half ton of supplies to Afghanistan.[pullquote quote="We're increasing the chances of that soldier returning home to their friends and their family." credit="Aaron Negherborn"]

And he said the effort is making a big difference for the Marines

"When I get an email from my buddy, who says, you're really floating our battalion right now with everything that Troops Direct is giving us, it just shows that there are other battalions that need it and those battalions are starting to come to us and saying, yes, give us, give us, give us please," said Negherbon.

The Troops Direct website was launched just a few weeks ago and now, Negherbon is in the process of getting it registered as an incorporated nonprofit.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.