The Villages Daily Sun

LADY LAKE — For the past two years, Lillian “Aunt Lil” Riley, of Harbor Hills, has baked about 35,000 cookies as a “crumb” through Treat The Troops, a volunteer effort to support soldiers in Iraq.

“It’s a win-win situation, because I’ve always loved baking them, and they love eating them,” Riley said. “Their favorite is chocolate chip, but I also make oatmeal-raisin, snicker doodles and peanut-butter cookies.”

Riley has received several responses thanking her for her treats, and one recent communication from an American soldier especially warmed her heart.

The serviceman, who simply signed his e-mail “Scot,” described Riley’s service as a “ministry” and told her how his friends were surprised when he informed them that “Aunt Lil” wasn’t a real relative, nor has he met her. He shared the cookies with several Iraqi air force lieutenants with whom he works.

Riley was overjoyed to learn this.

“The Iraqis are wounded and giving their lives just like our guys,” she said. “Why shouldn’t they get cookies? We don’t discriminate and just help our own. We help anyone.”

Riley contacted Jeanette Cram, who has been baking since the 1990 Gulf War, about becoming a “crumb.” On average, Riley mails about 20 boxes of cookies a month. It can get expensive.

“I get donations from all over the area and Harbor Hills,” she said. “There’s a lot of people who support and help me.”

Although it is a lot of work, Riley said sending treats has been tremendously rewarding.

“I think most people in the states would like to do something for the troops,” she said. “I’m not a social person, so this keeps me busy. It’s been the fulfillment of my life. I’ve had so many blessings connected with it.”

Those interested in making a contribution to Treat the Troops can send checks to Lillian Riley at 5147 Grove Manor, Lady Lake 32159. For information about the cookie-baking project, call Riley at 753-1831 or visit the Web site at treatthetroops.org.

Azia Li Forrest is a reporter with the Daily Sun. She can be reached at 753-1119, ext. 9069, or azia.forrest@thevillages media.com.