DES MOINES, Iowa -- As yet another Iowa soldier deployment looms, the Blue Star Mothers are gathering cards and donations to send to the soldiers overseas.

Blue Star Mothers is a non-profit established during World War II that supports mothers with children deployed in the U.S. Military. The organization advocates for families, raises funds for soldiers and their loved ones, and provides a support system.

The Blue Star Mothers have manned a table at the Iowa State Fair since opening day, hoping to gather holiday cards and funds to send 2,700 care packages to Iowa's deployed soldiers in November.

Over the past week, Blue Star Mothers spokesperson April Conway says families and soldiers have shared their stories and put thought into their letters.

"We had a sister say, 'Hey, if you happe

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