In an effort to support our troops, I decided to make a care package. So, instinctively, the first thing I did was Google, “how to make a care package.” WikiHow and eHow gave me the jist of
things (weight requirements, length requirements, etc). But I wondered what I would actually send and who to send it to.
First, I learned that you used to be able to send a care package addressed to “Any Soldier (Airman, Marine, Coast Guard, Sailor, etc.)”. But after 9/11 and the threat of Anthrax and other deadly, mailable substances, you can no longer do that. So now, Anysoldier.com, give you a list of military men and women and address to their base, so you can help them out. http://anysoldier.com/WhereToSend/
Secondly, I learned what to send and what not to send. Anything illegal will land you a date with the FBI. Alcohol is off limits, which was a shock to me because I thought they were allowed to drink. Pornography is also prohibited. According to anysoldier.com, porn is highly offensive to most Middle Eastern countries and you do not want to disrespect them.
If you know people in the military, then ask them specifically what they need. If you choose someone on the registered list from anysoldier.com, there are general things that every soldier needs overseas:
Toiletries –
MUST be travel sized, labeled and put in a zip locked bag
Toothpaste
Sanitizer
Toothbrushes
Babywipes (these are extremely important – sometimes they cannot shower for days)
Sun Block
AA Batteries
Magazines (again, nothing offensive)
Phone Cards
Deck of Cards
Energy Drinks – I was told by a Marine friend that Gatorade Powder is a favorite
Socks
Writing Materials and Envelopes
CDs / DVDs
Non-Perishable Food (nothing that can melt)
I’ve also been told that depending on where a soldier is and what they are doing, they would like coloring books and small toys to distribute to children around their base. Do not just send these items anywhere – make sure that they are stationed near and work with locals.
After getting a box, purchasing the items and securing them, seal the box securely and address it to the person you have chosen. When taking it to the post office, pay a flat rate instead of weighing it – it comes out cheaper.
These packages are a great way to support our troops as a whole and each person individually. Make sure to include a note to personalize your package, you may not get a response, but it will definitely brighten their day.
For more helpful tips and restrictions visit the United State Postal Service Web Site:
http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/
Great list of things to out in a care package, one would think to get them a sort of gift more so than necessities. Good posting.
ReplyDeleteThis is an excellent post. My best friend is going into the Army in August so this will be helpful when I need to send her things. Also the thing you said about porn... I agree with what you said, but I've heard soldiers tell me stories that they will trade things like cd's to get porn from other soldiers. Anyways, Really nice blog
ReplyDeleteThis post is very great. Its wonderful to inform people how to make a care passage and support troops.
ReplyDeleteNice, now I know what to send my friend in Iraq.
ReplyDeleteThe high school I went too did alot with the care packages. I'd like to get back in to sending things. Great post, very relevant to your topic.
ReplyDeleteI think this really important for obvious reasons. Most people don't send the essential which are really very simple. If more soldiers were able to receive everything they needed, the whole transition would be easier.
ReplyDeleteVery informative post. I'm sure this will help a lot of people.
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