Grateful for GIs

No matter what the fourth-graders call them — hero, American hero, brave soldier — Katherine Lang assures them all those descriptions are right.

The titles were used time and time again writing to U.S. soldiers in Iraq in Nathan Gibbs’ fourth-grade class at Newport Coast Elementary School Tuesday. Soldiers will receive more than 50 letters from them, all thanks to Katherine, a 16-year-old junior at Corona del Mar High School.

“These kids are so young they’re not going to understand the war, but they do know we have soldiers out there fighting for us,” Katherine said. “I think it’s important they know what’s going on. I hope they feel appreciative.”

Katherine began her solo “A Thousand Thank Yous” campaign two weeks ago to send thank you letters to soldiers in Iraq. She is on the cusp of 1,000 today, her last day collecting.

“I thought it was really important we thank the troops for all they’ve done for us,” Katherine said. “They’re really an inspiration, they’re so brave. To be willing to give their life for the country, that patriotism, it’s contagious.”

“I hope it will give them hope and they know their family misses them a lot,” said 10-year-old Curtis McMackin.

“I’m thankful for them fighting for us,” said Tiffany Ginger, 9.

Gibbs and the rest of the school happily cooperated with Katherine, giving her about 700 letters.

“It’s the spirit behind it,” Gibbs said. “It doesn’t matter what the war is for, forget the politics. They’re risking their lives for a cause.”

“I think our troops want to know that we’re thinking of them and that what they do for us is important,” said Marie Osterberg, whose daughter was among those who wrote several thank you letters.

Katherine hands over the letters to the Give 2 The Troops nonprofit foundation today. The organization ships letters and care packages overseas. Katherine’s are expected to be shipped Tuesday.

For more information on the organization, go to Give2thetroops.org or call (888) TROOPS-5.

JOSEPH SERNA may be reached at (714) 966-4619 or at joseph.serna@latimes.com.