Cajun Navy Ground Force
4400-A Ambassador Caffery Pkwy
Suite #342
Lafayette, Louisiana 70508
August 8, 2024
Dear friends:
Nearly two years ago, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Fort Myers, FL and changed the lives of many thousands. Those of us who endured the storm were overwhelmed. Without power, transportation, or housing, we felt fortunate to be alive but unprepared for the tasks ahead.
Then one day, tents and trailers appeared at the end of our road. Smiling and welcoming, the people there offered ice and water and clean, dry clothing. They were the Cajun Navy Ground Force, and they rescued us from despondency and fear. My neighbors and I were moved to tears by their generosity, kindness and empathy.
Months later, after I was able to return to my home, I met with my writers’ organization and my arts association – two area nonprofits. We wanted to do something to help our fellow citizens to draw meaning from our shared ordeal. We chose to ask people to tell their Hurricane Ian stories, and the response was massive. Over 80 stories of survival were submitted.
The Alliance for the Arts created listening stations and an art installation at their gallery to hear the stories and see artist interpretations. The Gulf Coast Writers Association assembled the stories into a book. The book and the art installation were launched on the first anniversary of Hurricane Ian, in September 2023.
Several of the stories in the anthology expressed gratitude for the help offered by strangers. The story of the Cajun Navy Ground Force is one of them. You’ll find it on page 367 under the title “Creeks Became Oceans. Then the Navy Came.”
At the time of publication, Gulf Coast Writers committed a portion of profits from book sales to a charity whose purpose was to help others in need. We chose the Cajun Navy Ground Force. A check for $400 is enclosed. Also enclosed is a copy of the book Storm Stories – Hurricane Ian.
You respond to disasters every day. To the authors of this volume, Hurricane Ian was an event unique in our lives. To some of us, it awakened awareness of life’s fragility and incited generosity.
The enclosed contribution represents the desire of Gulf Coast Writers Association to pluck good from tragedy. We are grateful for all you do every day to help those enduring enormous loss.
Sincerely,
Mary Charles
President, Gulf Coast Writers Association
Enclosures: $400 check
Storm Stories book
