Soldiers, families get computers

Fort Bragg, N.C. — Soldiers in the 82nd Airborne's 3rd Brigade Combat Team are headed to Iraq for a year, but they are leaving with donated computers to help them stay in touch with family and friends.

Operation Homefront and CDW-G donated the computers to 108 families.

Pfc. Ryan Rhea will be leaving behind wife, Alexis, and a new baby.

"I'll be able to take pictures and put her pictures on the computer. I'll be able to send them by e-mail. It's going to be a joy. I'm excited,” Alexis Rhea said.

Pfc. Kyle Ingram said the computers will make the trip to Iraq a little easier.

"You can call, but they're not always there on the other end to pick up,” Ingram said.

Since 2002, Operation Homefront has given away more than 5,000 refurbished computers to families that in many cases can’t afford to buy a computer.

“It’s tough,” Ryan Rhea said. “Your expenses change a little bit, and trying to get a computer is not in question at the moment."

Operation Homefront also sends care packages overseas and helps families with emergencies at home.