Don't forget the wounded Iraq war soldiers While Americans debate the war in Iraq - many times more bitterly than intellectually - we have forgotten our wounded men and women who are recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and other military hospitals around the country. Every week planeloads of seriously wounded military arrive in the United States for medical treatment and recovery - often staying over a year in a hospital. They arrive with few if any of their personal possessions. Many are amputees who make the hospital their home-away-fromhome while learning to move forward with their lives with the aid of outstanding medical, physical therapy and occupational therapy staffs. In 2003, the Angels of Mercy Program was founded to help these wounded men and women and their families. In 2004, Newman's Own named the Angels the best volunteer program in American supporting our military. The program provides clothing suitable for rehabilitation, comfort items, and a broad range of support for young family members who have uprooted their lives to be with their loved ones at the hospital. We need help to keep this non-political, all-volunteer program going. Our total effort is on helping those who have given so much, and letting them know their Country cares about their sacrifices. The Web site www.SupportOurWounded.org contains many background details, and suggests ways Americans can help. The Angels of Mercy Program can also be reached by phone (703) 938-8930. Our wounded need your help. Jay Edwards MarianChirichella Founders/directors Angels of Mercy Program McLean, Va.