Iraqi Coins Aid And Honor U.S. Troops

Many Americans are searching for a meaningful way to honor the men and women who defend the nation's freedoms.

Fortunately, a Charlotte, NC- based company, Products for Good has created a unique way to do just that.

It has taken Iraqi coins, called "fils" which were decommissioned by Saddam Hussein, because they did not have his picture on them, and placed them in patriotic shadowboxes surrounded by symbols of American freedom.

This special tribute was created for two reasons: 1) to honor all of the nation's men and women in uniform who made these symbols of freedom possible; and 2) to raise moneys for the families of wounded and fallen heroes in the current global war on terror. So far, Products for Good has raised over $86,000 for these causes and hopes eventually to raise more than $20 million.

"The funds from the sales of the shadowboxes are nothing short of a lifeline for some of the receiving families," said Lee Greenwood Singer/Songwriter of God Bless the USA. "Whether the funds go towards medical bills, upgrades to a home to make it wheelchair accessible or for grieving families coping with loss, these patriotic collectors' items help our nation's heroes and their families to have a better life."

The coins, relics of a tyrannical regime, are set against an inspiring backdrop, including photographs of the American flag and American soldiers, along with a written definition of freedom.

Founders of the group wanted a patriotic means to say thank you to America's heroes. They say they have already received hundreds of letters from appreciative veterans, dozens of whom were moved to tears.

This is not the first time the fils have been used to benefit the victims of Saddam's brutality. When British troops initially captured the coins in the spring of 2003, they decided to consign them to raise money for the Basra Orphanage.

They were then shipped to a metals dealer in England. There they came to the attention of the co-founders of Products for Good, who envisioned how they would benefit American troops and their families.