SAN CLEMENTE : Businesses Mount Gulf Card Drive

The day after the Persian Gulf War began, San Clemente businesswoman Teri Todd started gathering signatures on oversized greeting cards to send to troops that had been stationed in Southern California.

So far, Todd has sent 13 cards signed by employees from about 200 Southern California businesses and about 500 individuals who have stopped by her real estate office in San Clemente. The cards were mailed in time to reach the Gulf by Valentine’s Day.

“It makes me feel good to do this because I know how they feel,” said Vietnam veteran Mel Pickett as he signed a card. “We are going to be part of a campaign that shows them our appreciation while they are there.”