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StrictI often get asked by people what they should send in care packages to soldiers who have been deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when deciding what to send.
It’s hard to create a list of the “best” stuff to send in care packages, because the things that soldiers need will depend greatly on where they are stationed, whether there is a PX nearby, and what their individual preferences are. Here are some general tips to keep in mind (I use “he” a lot, but these apply to female soldiers as well!):
- The classics are always a safe bet: baked goods, snack foods, drink mixes, or anything that can keep well without refrigeration. This includes Lunchables, tuna salad kits… basically any alternative to Army food. Try to get bulk sizes (Sam’s Club!) if possible so he/she can share and trade with others.
- Coffee, sugar, and creamer are always in short supply. Find out if they have a coffee maker, and if not send instant. Even if your soldier doesn’t like coffee much, a) he’ll probably learn to! and b) he’ll make great friends with the other coffee drinkers in his platoon!
- Toiletries aren’t too hard to come by anymore, but if there is a particular brand he uses that’s not available over there, send that his way.
- Phone cards, envelopes, and postage stamps are a great way to help your soldier keep in touch. Find out first what type of phones are available; some use regular phone cards while others have to use a certain provider’s card.
- Most base camps now have electricity, and so many soldiers have portable DVD players (or a laptop with a DVD player), CD/MP3 players (ipods), GameBoys, and the like. So send new DVDs, CDs, games, etc. that your soldier may like to help break the monotony. AA batteries also help a lot for these small personal devices.
- Magazines are always good; send ones you know he likes (or has similar interests to) or just general magazines that people his age enjoy. They’ll all get passed around to everyone else anyway. If there’s a website he visits regularly (such as news, sports, etc.) then print out some articles and include those too.
- Whatever your soldier likes at home, he will like while deployed. If he really likes your homemade cookies, send plenty of those. And if he doesn’t do crossword puzzles while at home, he won’t like them while deployed either!
- Anything that helps him stay connected to home is great. If he misses a big family reunion or a bunch of his friends get together for a night on the town, be sure to send lots of pictures of those. If he has children, young relatives, or pets that he misses, send new pictures of those too. If it’s a coworker, get everyone together for a group photo holding a sign that says “we miss you!” These will help to ease the feeling that he’s “missing out on life” while he’s gone.
- If he’s been there for a while, instead of trying to guess what he likes/needs, just ask! Don’t worry about “ruining the surprise”; only he can tell you what he’d like that he can’t get nearby.
- Don’t fret too much about what to send; just send something. Just as important as what’s in the package is that you thought enough to send one, and that connection to home is priceless. If he lives in a remote camp that only gets mail a few times a month, there is nothing worse than mail day coming and going without receiving anything. If it’s a choice between one big package once, and several small packages often, go for often. Get together with a group of family or friends and take turns each week sending a package.
UPDATE: I have found a website, AnySoldier.com, which helps people send care packages to “any soldier” (hopefully those that don’t ordinarily get much mail) for those who would like to help out but who don’t personally know anyone to send stuff to.
March 19th, 2005 at 12:04 am
baby wipes
granola bars
soups
no candy
no soaps
no shampo
creams, hands boby
socks
May 9th, 2005 at 4:18 pm
if i dont know anyone in iraq, how do i send a package?
May 13th, 2005 at 4:34 pm
I know there are soldiers in Iraq who have no one back how to write to and get letters and care packages from. Iwould like to help out and correspond with some of them but every web site I find wants money or want the care packages sent to them to be forwarded. Could you please help me get some names and there addresses there so I can help as many as I can. Thank You
May 13th, 2005 at 11:36 pm
Hi, thanks Allen and Kelly for asking about sending care packages to anonymous soldier. As you probably know, the Post Office and Army no longer allow packages or letters addressed to just "any soldier" for security reasons.
There are a couple good ways to find a soldier who could use a package from home. One way is just to ask around — friends, coworkers, etc. Chances are you know someone who has a friend or family member that is deployed, whether you realize it or not.
Another good way is the website I mention above, Anysoldier.com. They have hundreds of "contacts" from all branches of service listed who are currently deployed. You can browse through them and find the name of someone who will accept packages marked "Attn: any soldier" in their care. They all describe their unit and the types of missions they do, as well as the type of packages they’re looking for.
It’s just interesting to read through their stories, and eventually you’ll come across one that you’ll want to send a package to. Just be sure to include the contact person’s name *as well as* "Any Soldier" to make sure it gets delivered.
September 26th, 2005 at 3:50 pm
Hi,
Anyone know about how long it takes a package to get from US east coast to Baghdad? I sent one on 9/16…just curious because it doesn’t appear on the USPS tracker…
September 26th, 2005 at 4:06 pm
When sending a package to an APO address, the USPS can track it only as far as the distribution point for that APO’s region. For the Middle East (APO AE), I believe that’s New York. Meaning the USPS delivers it to the Army in New York, then the Army puts it on the first available flight to the region.
So, you will not receive any more tracking information once the Army gets it. When I was deployed in 2003, it generally took 2-3 weeks from the postmark date for me to get stuff. That all depends on lots of factors like availability of flights, how often the recipient’s unit picks up mail, etc.
October 3rd, 2005 at 4:41 pm
I sent my cousin a cheap handheld fishing game, available in any WalMart. He and his friends loved it, he reported they couldn’t put it down. I sent lots of batteries, so even if he gets tired of it, he can pass it on to someone else. I’m about to send another one, any ideas that would fun and successful? I have the food and magazines he likes down, but I’d like to include a surprise too.
October 6th, 2005 at 7:47 pm
my school is going to send care packages to iraq.where do we send them to?
November 23rd, 2005 at 11:48 am
I had heard that there are certain items are are polically incorrect to send… such a beef products. Any comments.????
November 23rd, 2005 at 4:49 pm
No, there is no problem with sending "politically incorrect" items such as beef. There are restrictions based on the area they are being sent to against some things like obscene/dangerous materials, etc.
While sending beef/pork/etc. to soldiers is OK, no doubt those soldiers will have already been given training on how not to offend local civilians with these items. Every soldier deployed overseas goes through extensive training on local customs, taboos, beliefs, etc. in order to help prevent these things from becoming an issue.
If in doubt, ask the post office; they have a list of specifically prohibited items. However, when filling out your custom declarations form, you’ll find that being just a little vague can sometimes be of help.
December 20th, 2005 at 9:27 pm
Instead of "any soldier" check with friends who have relatives overseas. Ask them to check with their soldier for guys in his platoon who never get mail. That way it will be personal. A great website for ideas is http://www.operationmilitar... Lots of good ideas and tips for mailing. The post office has a two sizes of flat rate boxes - stuff them with as much as possible and it only costs $7.50 to mail.
January 29th, 2006 at 2:29 am
My husband is in Balad, Iraq. He is requiesting homemade baked goods, but I worry that by the time they arive they will be no good. What can I bake that will stay fresh for that long and how should I package them?
February 10th, 2006 at 8:10 pm
My Fiancee is in iraq now and what I hear from him is that the water is basically Sewage and any bottled water(even though that may be a heavy thing to send) Wipes, Hand sanitizer, and anything else that could help them be a little more sanitary would be great! he said beef Jerkerky and Gum are a big hit! He’s really having a hard time being away from home, he could use some words of support from others! His name is Joe and his address is
(Address removed; see comment #270)
Any encouragement helps!! Thanks
March 17th, 2006 at 11:05 pm
how and where do i send a package to a soldier if i don’t know any?
March 21st, 2006 at 9:12 pm
I see alot of questions about where to send a package to a soldier who might not be getting anything from back in the states. My husband is deployed to Afghanistan and I know there are some guys in his unit that dont have anybody at home and would love to get something in the mail even if it is just a card. If you are interested in sending something please email me for the address.
March 23rd, 2006 at 7:35 pm
I have three guys in my team that don’t get a lot of mail. They’re names are SPC Pinska, Tyler; SPC Conlin, Seth; SPC Turcotte, Nicolas. Their address is,
(Address removed; see comment #270)
April 6th, 2006 at 8:53 pm
me and my dad want to send packages to iraq but we dont know to give them to someone or to go to a post office. anyways can u help us out on what to do and what to bring?
thanks alot
zac
April 6th, 2006 at 9:01 pm
Hello Zac,
If you don’t have a particular soldier to send stuff to then AnySoldier.com and TreatAnySoldier.com are two good sites which will help you send care packages to our soldiers overseas. If you do have a specific soldier to send stuff to, then the post office can help you answer any questions.
April 30th, 2006 at 10:25 pm
Ummmm but how do you become a pen pal I am 10 and want to become a pen pal to a soldier to a soldier in iraq or iran but what is the adress
May 21st, 2006 at 12:56 pm
I am loking for scottie stevens, she is in the us army.
May 25th, 2006 at 5:21 pm
Adopt a Soldier http://www.adopt-a-soldier.net send letters and packages to a solder who doesn’t get any
Write letters of support to the soldiers to be read on the air on Spotlight Radio(listen http://www.thespotlightradi...) Show is on Wednesday 11am -1pm EST
Write letters to lettersto-fromhome@hotmail.com
May 29th, 2006 at 11:37 am
Don’t bother sending postage stamps. Soldiers don’t have to pay postage to send letters home. Uncle Sam covers that. Lunchables need to be refrigerated, they can not tolerate heat. Remember that a phone card that is worth 100 minutes here might only last for 15-20 on an international call.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:41 am
Did anyone answer the question on how to make & pkg. baked goods so that they will still be good when they arrive in Iraq?
June 19th, 2006 at 9:11 pm
Gail,
When you send baked goods, I was told by an veteran mom it’s a good idea to place a piece of bread on top of it and packed in a tin can. That helps with keeping it fresh on it’s long trip. Hope this helps.
June 24th, 2006 at 10:34 am
1 SGT WIFE: My boyfriend is overseas and I’ve sent over cookies and brownies in a plastic bag with a slice of bread in them. You can also use unsalted unbuttered popcorn. I’m not sure exactly what it does, but it sure does help to keep the baked goods fresh. He is getting his packages in 4-6 days though. That also helps to keep things fresh. Hope this helps.
June 30th, 2006 at 11:58 am
I belong to an organization called Soldiers’ Angels. I wanted to support our troops overseas so entered my name as an "angel". I received the name of a soldier who I send email, letters and packages to as often as possible. The organization suggests one letter/email a week and one package a month minimum. Military personnel can enter their names as a hero and an angel will be assigned as soon as possible. I’ve met 3 awesome heroes being an angel. Wouldn’t it be awesome if there was an angel for every hero? :o)
July 4th, 2006 at 8:09 pm
I do not have much to send to our soldiers, but I would like to send a letter to a whole unit…not just one soldier… That way, any of them that want to make a new friend can write me back and eventually it can become more personal for them. How can I get a letter to a whole unit??
July 11th, 2006 at 8:31 pm
My son is in Afghanistan. Military is new to me and I’m 45 years old. The support you give each other is really touching. I’ve learned so much just by browsing the internet and reading what military families have written. Thanks for sharing your experience with those of us just learning what a sacrifice it truly is.
July 13th, 2006 at 4:31 pm
My nephew is in Iraq. In his care package I included some random fun stuff: a hoola girl that will stick to the dash of his Humvie and dance as he goes over every bump, a harmonica, a magnetic picture frame, a football magazine, recent local publications, one of the Worst Case Scenario books and some candy all wrapped in gag paper (w/ naked women on the underside of the paper so that when he opened each thing, he was met with more than a smile). He said it’s been his favorite package yet and he said all of his buddies got a kick out of it too.
July 22nd, 2006 at 4:38 pm
Another good thing to send is Air fresheners ..I would have never thought about it , but my husband requested them. Now that I think about it when putting that many boys in one room it is definatly going to stink..especially over there in the heat. Be sure to put them in a ziploc incase they melt.
July 31st, 2006 at 3:52 pm
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August 12th, 2006 at 7:53 pm
Does anyone have some helpful hints on filling out the customs form? The instructions read like tax forms, and state that I have to list the exact content, weight of each object etc and not just a general discription… Did the post office give me the wrong form? As for the baked goods, hows about vaccum sealing them (ie: foodsaver or seal-a-meal)?
August 12th, 2006 at 11:33 pm
Hello Ikaika13,
Yes, those customs forms are horrible but don’t be too worried about it. Because they use the same form for every country, they err on the side of asking too much information.
You can give a general description such as "baked goods, 2 lbs.". Other acceptable general terms are "printed reading material", "music CDs", etc. If you aren’t sure what one of the boxes means, just put what you think is right. The weight doesn’t have to be exact either; just put your best guess. If it weighs 6 pounds and you wrote 10, it won’t really matter.
When sending mail to soldiers using an APO/FPO, the customs form is really just a formality. I have never heard of a package being rejected or held up due to its customs info. In all likelihood, no one will even look at it before it arrives.
I’ve never tried the vacuum sealing method but it sounds like a good idea!
August 14th, 2006 at 4:18 pm
On the baked goods questions: I have sent many packages with homemade baked goods. They have taken as long as 3 weeks to get there and they were still fresh when he opened them. Wrap them in plastic wrap, then foil and put in a plastic baggy.
August 22nd, 2006 at 12:51 am
there are alot of men and women out there who need our support. morale can become very low, especially when they feel they have been forgotten. this site is awesome,and can open many hearts that have been so down trodden. remember that the simplest gesture will make a world of difference!
August 22nd, 2006 at 12:53 am
there are alot of men and women out there who need our support. morale can become very low, especially when they feel they have been forgotten. this site is awesome,and can open many hearts that have been so down trodden. remember that the simplest gesture will make a world of difference!
August 31st, 2006 at 8:37 am
i am doing a grauation project for school… i am trying to get different schools in our county to donate things to be sent over to iraq to different units.. coming from an army family i know what people need over there.. if anyone has any ideas.. please let me know
September 10th, 2006 at 5:42 pm
Can we send any alcoholic beverages?
September 16th, 2006 at 6:01 pm
I am currently supporting our soldiers in Iraq as an MWR Coordinator. As a Mother of a soldier, and as someone who is here in the sand box with them. I will tell you that these guys just want to know that the American people still care about them. I will gladly give you all the addresses you need if you’ll just contact me.
September 16th, 2006 at 7:39 pm
Here are several idea’s for packages:
Dried Fruit
Eye drops
Granola bars
Trail Mix
Sport updates (magazines)
wet wipes
face lotion
My boyfriend is over in Iraq and he says though they have plenty to eat it is not always healthy food. So anything to keep them healthier is a plus!
September 30th, 2006 at 9:55 am
YOU ALL REALIZE YOU CAN BAKE ANYTHING OK IT WILL STAY GOOD I SENT MY HUSBAND A CAKE AND COOKIES HE SAID THEY WERE STILL VERY SOFT THE ONLY THING IS THEY MIGHT BREAK BUT HEY HE STILL LOVED THEM ANYWAYS AND IF I AM NOT MISTAKEN TOO EXPRESS IS THE ONLY ONE THAT CAN BE TRACKED I BELIEVE IF U SEND SOMETHING VERY VALUABLE SEND IT REGISTERED MAIL YOU MIGHT NOT CAN SEE WHERE IT IS BUT THEY HAVE TO ACCOUNT FOR THE ITEM AND AS FAR AS WHAT TO SEND THE TROOPS I WOULD HAVE TO SAY ALOT OF FREEZE POPS ITS VERY HOT THERE THEY LOVE FREEZE POPS
September 30th, 2006 at 10:02 am
I WOULD LIKE TO REMIND YOU ALL SOMETHING NOT SAYIN YOU ALL WILL DO IT BUT DON’T YOU CAN NOT SEND ANY ALCOHOL OVER THERE IF U EVEN ATTEMP TOO THEY WILL SEND YOU A NASTY LETTER BACK AND THEY WILL NOT RETURN YOUR ALCOHOL TO YOU THEY WILL DISPOSE OF IT AND TRUST ME THEY CAN FIND OUT THE POST OFFICE IN IRAQ FOUND THIS LIQUOR IN A CAKE OK THE MIDDLE WAS HOLLOWED OUT THEY FOUND IT CRUMBLED THE CAKE IT WAS ALL IN PIECES AND SENT THE CAKE WITH NO LIQUOR THAT PERSON GOT A NASTY NOTE
September 30th, 2006 at 10:07 am
ON THE CUSTOMS FORM OK IF U HAVE COOKIES JUST SAY COOKIES FOR THE DESCRIPTION AND AS FAR AS THE WEIGHT YOU DON’T HAVE TO PUT THE WEIGHT NOW IT WILL ASK YOU THE VALUE SAY 5.00 10.00 ESTIMATE HOW MUCH IT IS IT DON’T MATTER UNLESS YOU ARE INSURING IT DATE AND SIGN IT
September 30th, 2006 at 10:16 am
EVERYONE IF U SEND A LETTER FROM APO TO APO THEN PUT MPS ON THE FAR TOP RIGHT CORNER BUT EVEN IF A SOLDIER IS SENDIND A LETTER TO THE STATES OH YES THEY HAVE TO PAY FOR STAMPS NO MATTER WHAT I AM IN GERMANY I DON’T HAVE TO PAY TO SEND MY HUSBAND ANYTHING OR VISE VERSE HE DON’T EITHER BUT IF HE SENDS A LETTER HOME TO THE STATES THEN YES HE DOES HAVE TO PAY TOO AND IF SOMEONE CAN’T AFFORD .39 CENTS SOMETHINGS WRONG
September 30th, 2006 at 10:24 am
HEY FROM THE US TO IRAQ PACKAGES TAKE ABOUT 7 TO 10DAYS THATS FOR PRIORTY SAM MAIL IS THE LAST THING THAT GETS LOADED ONTO THE TRUCK THAT TAKES LONGER EXPRESS TAKES BETWEEN 2 TO 3 DAYS
September 30th, 2006 at 6:49 pm
If I´m in Repdublic of Panama, how can I send even a card to my son in Iraq.
e-mail:melida_deleon@yahoo.com
September 30th, 2006 at 6:53 pm
If I´m in Repdublic of Panama, how can I send even a card to my son in Iraq.
e-mail:melida_deleon@yahoo.com
September 30th, 2006 at 6:55 pm
Ì need to send somethings for my son in Irag, Içm from Reppublic of Panama
October 8th, 2006 at 10:51 am
Okay…am I the only one disturbed a GREAT deal over the blatant violations of OPSEC/PERSEC on this site? Good grief…why don’t you all just post their SS#’s on here too! You are not supposed to EVER say where they are deployed to…it is considered a "need to know" thing. Heck, the fact that they are deployed is considered "need to know." Also, the two people who put Soldier’s names and addys…shame on you! The Military won’t allow "any soldier" for saftey reasons and now you have given people ALL over the world, including hostile enemies a specific name and addy. Someone needs to delete or augment that post.
October 9th, 2006 at 11:11 am
Dear Military Spouse,
Thank you for your comment and I appreciate your concern. As an ex-military member I take OPSEC very seriously and monitor all posts made to this site for problems. In fact I have even "airbrushed" several of the photos in my photo gallery to remove geographical features which could be used to identify locations of troops, etc.
That said, I do not know of any OPSEC issues involving posting the APO address of a soldier. Most deployed military units’ websites will already post this information for loved ones to contact their soldiers. Information which *does* violate OPSEC would include: dates of troop movements, numbers of troops, specific locations in theater to which a unit is deployed, etc.
APO addresses can and do change frequently, and can’t really be tied to a specific location in theater, so I don’t have any concern with posting those. I have searched for OPSEC guidelines regarding APO addresses and what I have found reflects this. If you know of more specific information, please feel free to send me an email using my Contact Form:
http://www.tobiasly.com/ind...
October 11th, 2006 at 10:37 pm
Hello. My cousin is stationed near Balad and says it is tough to get potable water. Does anyone know a good site that will ship water reasonably cheap to an APO address? Local shipping center in my hometown has given me a price of about $30.00 to ship 20 pounds, $20.00 for 10 pounds. Does that sound reasonable or am I being ripped off? Thank you for any information.
October 24th, 2006 at 12:59 am
My son is literally begging me to send him some liqueor..go figure.
He gave me specific instructions in a way to send it there, so it would not be detected. Like in a scope bottles.
Anyone know what the exact rules are for sending this stuff to Afganistan? Isn’t this normally not permitted?
October 24th, 2006 at 9:31 am
Hello Jan,
Unfortunately the price you mention is probably rather standard for shipping water. It’s just too heavy. On top of that, what water you get won’t last for very long out there, so all in all it would be very expensive.
Keeping potable water on hand (whether in water trucks or bottled water) is one of the top priorities of any military unit. Our soldiers simply can’t do their job without lots of water to drink out there, and I’m sure the logistics personnel at your cousin’s battalion are working on making the situation better. Of course there are always glitches that come up but I’m sure the problem will be fixed ASAP.
October 24th, 2006 at 9:33 am
Marie,
You are correct, any alcohol is strictly prohibited. Of course that’s not to say people don’t try, but there is absolutely no leeway in the policy.
October 25th, 2006 at 1:24 am
My husband is in iraq and to send me a letter he writes "free mail" on the corner and I always get his letters and he’s never had to pay for a stamp. I’ve heard from post to post, over seas mail is free including packages. But from US to over seas it is not.
As for things to send, I send PO flatrate boxes so even if it is filled with bottled water or Gatorade, it still only costs $8 and some change to send. And I buy in bulk and each box contains snacks and drinks, and if i want to stick extras like psp games or movies it’s still only $8! Medicine is also good, asprin, dayquill or nitequill pills, tyger balm, any muscle rub or thermal care heat patches for muscles aches ( after carrying 100+ lbs of stuff all the time you’d need some too!) Travel games like checkers or chess. And for the holidays like Halloween, I send little bags of candy for my husband to pass out to his buddies! Of course its the little things that matter the most, Simple cards that show that your always thinking about him. Ladies, spray your perfume on your letters to your soldiers, they’ll love it!
October 31st, 2006 at 9:04 pm
My friend in Iraq wants me to send soil and seeds for something that will grow in that climate (or under fluorescent light). He is desperate for something green and growing and I like the idea of sending him US soil. Does anyone know if this is ok, or have suggestions for what might grow there?
Thanks!
November 1st, 2006 at 8:09 pm
I am excited about sending packages for our soldiers. I’ve read every post here so far and have learned a few things. I’m glad I stumbled on this site. The soil and seeds idea was mentioned on the news a few weeks ago here and it is okay to do so. Please do NOT send any type of liquor - that’s just asking for trouble. I think another idea for those who DO know soldiers by name, send a little package in with the big package for another soldier who has nothing.
For homemade goodies, use Ziploc baggies. For homemade candies and bars, I’d use tin foil for each one individually, then placed in a small tin or Ziploc baggies. You can also get small plastic decorated tubs that will be cute as well. Include a couple of small unbreakable ornaments. I’m sure that would be a welcomed surprise. Don’t forget video games, CDs, and batteries. Individual sized packets for flavoring water might be nice too. Pictures, postcards, souvenirs, etc…as well as silly putty, Rubik’s Cube, puzzles, People/US magazines, local sports news reports, football, balloons, crackers, cookies, chips, granola bars, fruit snacks, etc… The list is endless. Use your imagination. Also, include a little ‘Thank You’ Card so they can say ‘thanks’ in return. Request more names of soldiers to share with your friends and family members for future care packages.
Include bandaids, tissues, Tylenol, etc… as well.
November 1st, 2006 at 8:19 pm
Oh, Gretchen, I have a few ideas for your soil and seeds idea.
There is a plant called POTHOS. It grows in any temps and is very tolerant to the heat and dry climates. In many parts of the world, they call it ‘the money plant’. It doesn’t have flowers but it’s green and pretty. I’d go with that. Ask a local florist if they could provide you with one of those tubes for keeping it watered until its arrival overseas. But again, it’s very tolerant. You could even put a few ’starters’ of the plant in a ziploc bag with a heavily soaked paper towel or two. Then put the soil in a separate Ziploc.
Most ferns and ivy plants are ‘friendly’. You can check with a florist or local grower. POTHOS is like an ivy, it’s very easy to grow and maintain. Send a few different plants (or even Cilantro/Parsley) or their starters in different baggies. Even if a couple don’t make it, the others will - POTHOS for sure.
Good luck. You CAN do it - it’s allowed.
November 4th, 2006 at 5:16 pm
my husband just deployed one month and 2 days ago. this is his second deployment, but now we have a 17month old little girl. so i sent him a picture of her hands with glitter on it she did in school. he absolutely loved it! and i mailed it just from her to him and that meant so much to him. i am mailing one of his military issued trunks this next week. there was stuff he forgot and needs. where he is at is alot less americanized. there px doesn’t really carry much choices in stuff. there’s not alot for them to do on their off time either. he has also stated that there’s quit a few soldiers that have no one back here so i’m doing my best to send stuff in bulk for him to share. i have made friends with a few of the guys he’s with and am helping send stuff to them too. but if anyone would like to help out it would be greatly appreciated. they are asking for phone cards, peanuts, trail mix, beef jerky, baked goods, gatorade and water, xbox games (new and used), movies (new and old), cd’s (new and mixed), alarm clocks, cigarettes (any kind, they can’t get much there), lifesavers (fruit and mint), gum and bubble gum, twin size sheets (their beds are nasty and they weren’t given ANY sheets!!), blankets and pillows! if i find out more i will post it! but they really are in need and i can only due so much. they don’t need stamps or envelopes, that is given to them and postage IS FREE!!! this is my second deployment with my husband, but the first we were just friends. we are high school sweethearts and not having him here has been tough. he is my gardian angel and hero. i thank god everyday for him. i love seeing all these people supporting our troops and willing to send care packages. even my husband says that no one really knows how much these mean to them!! being over there sometimes the single soldiers feel forgotten about. please help me let them know they are all still remembered and cared about! and i promise that if you mail something for everyone to my husband, he will pass it out to the other guys before he takes anything for himself! THANK YOU VERY MUCH AND PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR SOLDIERS TO COME HOME SAFE AND SOON!
MAIL CARE PACKAGES TO:
(Address removed; see comment #270)
November 7th, 2006 at 12:38 pm
how do you send baked goods so that they are still fresh…any ideas???
November 7th, 2006 at 12:38 pm
how do you send baked goods so that they are still fresh…any ideas???
November 7th, 2006 at 9:57 pm
I just received word that a young friend of my grandaughter was deployed from Fort Hood in this past month. I have his Fort Hood Address but how can I get his APO address in Irag. The young man needs all the encouragement he can get and is from Ohio. I spoke to some of his family and they are at lost too. Can the recruiting office help?
November 8th, 2006 at 4:10 am
HI. I’D LIKE TO KNOW HOW I CAN SEND PACKAGES FROM SOUTH AFRICA AND HOW I CAN CONTACT SOLDIERS FIGHTING AS TO SAY BE PENPALS. I WANT TO HELP ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT THEM SO THAT THEY WILL KNOW THAT THEY ARE NOT ALONE. PEOPLE ARE PRAYING AND THINKING OF THEM. PLEASE HELP
November 10th, 2006 at 6:16 pm
My boyfriend is down there. And I write him letters but I havent send a package yet, because I thought the military would take of them, because he always said that he is fine. But now while he was on vacation I saw the pictures and I saw the way they have to live. I m German an live here. So I m not quite sure how it works with the packages. So my questions.
Can I send deoaerosol cans to Iraq? And Coke in plasticbottles?
And where I have to write down what is inside?Just on top or do I need any special paper? I just can say send more they need this open a box where is sth inside just for you. God bless all the people in iraq. The soldiers and the iraqis. May they find ways for life in future. And may all soldiers come home soon
November 11th, 2006 at 10:44 am
If sending postage stuff for soldiers to send mail (do they send mail???) — like letter, envelopes, and stamps, etc — what POSTAGE type and amount should you include so they can send letters BACK???
November 13th, 2006 at 1:24 pm
My son has just arrived at his FOB in Iraq, so I’m still new at this…but maybe I can help answer some of the recent questions based on recent research & speaking with a wife of his boss.
Re: postage - soldiers are supposed to get free postage back to the states.
At USPS there is what is called a ‘Military Pack’ and they will send all the fixings to you (tape, forms, boxes) free. All you do is supply the postage which is the same as if you were mailing in the states. The ‘flat rate’ box which is $8.10 is a great deal.
Re: Soldier from Ft Hood - go to the Ft. Hood website and look for FRG which stands for Familly Readiness Group. Those folks should be able to point you in the right direction as to who could supply the address. It is usually the Rear Detatchment officer.
Re: What to send…I was told to make sure you put ‘everything’ in the customs form. If you leave something out, like batteries, and they detect something suspicious, they will probably destroy the package. I’d rather them be safe than sorry with my son!
I also was told not to send baked goods, to only send things in packages. If anyone has been successful sending home made products, please share.
I think this is a great website and will visit it often…
Thank you…
November 13th, 2006 at 4:04 pm
Would like to write and share the holiday season with soldiers that are there thru the Christmas season. Please advise me on how to do this. Thank you
November 14th, 2006 at 5:34 pm
I was reading this as our school is getting ready to send packages for the third year to soldiers from our community. We have always sent them at regular postage rates. Several people mentioned military pack rates. However, when I went to USPS I could not find it. Can someone help me out? Do they get their at the same rate as regular price packages?
Thank You.
November 15th, 2006 at 4:35 pm
hey was wondering if neone could help me, i want to send a package to my bf in iraq, hes an american soldier however im british and live in london, and i cant find anywhere that will send to his location. can anyone please help me.
much appreciated
November 18th, 2006 at 5:17 pm
This is awesome. My friend was just deployed to Iraq and I just got his new address. Thank you for all of the awesome ideas and info for sending care packages.
November 21st, 2006 at 12:53 am
just a thought about the water issue… it would be so expensive to send bottles of water, but how about something like a Brita pitcher with a water filtering system? that would be much cheaper!
November 25th, 2006 at 6:00 pm
My 21 year old granddaughter is a military policewoman in Iraq. I would love for her to get some mail, goodies, a card or something to know we are thinking of the men and women overseas. Please email me if you would like to send to my granddaughter and her battalion.
November 27th, 2006 at 4:16 pm
You can request a Military pack which is free, or you are supposed to be able to pick up flat rate boxes free from the USPS office. I’m doing that tonite so if I have a problem getting them free, I’ll let you know…The flat rate boxes are all $8.10…no matter how heavy.
Oops…got to go b4 the po closes!
Take care everyone…
November 28th, 2006 at 12:53 am
my husband has been gone almost two months and i swear i’ve sent ten packages! he’s gotten everyone of them. as for the "CUSTOMES FORM" you MUST put every item. now, the weight and cost doesn’t have to be exact, but do list everything, even if it takes more than one form! you can send liquids (soda, shampoo, mouthwash, etc.) just put it into two ziplock bags incase it does leak. as for the "FLAT RATE" boxes, they are out in the open at the post office. they’ll have a RED CIRCLE that says "FLAT RATE" on it! as for the military packaging kit, i’ve never seen or heard of it before and this is our second deployment! for those of you wanting to be a "PIN PAL", my husband just got two through the "ADOPT A SOLDIER" program. i’ll find out how to get connected with it for those of you interested! and for the one needing the mailing address, they don’t get their correct address til they get settled which usually will take from 2 weeks to a month after they deploy! they have to convoy from where they land (after all equipment gets there too) to their final destination, then they will be informed of their final and correct mailing address! even rear detachment won’t know exactly til they’re soldiers are settled! just hang tight and he’ll contact family and friends with his mailing address as soon as he’s notified. we were given an address before my husband left and it was NOT CORRECT! plus, if i would’ve mailed something before he got to that location and checked in, he would’ve never gotten it! just give it time, about a month at the most! thank you everyone for your help and support!
November 28th, 2006 at 10:08 pm
Hi everyone,
There is a place on the USPS website that addresses the Military Care Kit:
This is the description of the kit and a link to the page where it details the deadlines for sending packages this holiday season is:
http://www.usps.com/communi...
The U.S. Postal Service introduced a Military Care Kit, or "Mili-kit" in 2004 to make it easier for military families and friends to send care packages to their loved ones stationed overseas. Since the inception of the Military Care Kit, the U.S. Postal Service has shipped more than 150,000 kits. Each kit contains two Priority Mail boxes, six Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes, eight Priority Mail labels, one roll of Priority Mail tape and eight customs forms with envelopes.
This kit may be ordered by calling the USPS Expedited Package Supply Center at 1-800-610-8734. There is no charge for the kit. The Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes included in the kit can be shipped to any APO/FPO in the world, regardless of weight, for $8.10.
December 2nd, 2006 at 3:25 pm
Is the USPS the only way to send care packages to Iraq?
January 5th, 2007 at 4:31 am
i have a friend who is in iraq. he dosen’t get much mail, but i try to send him some when i can. he is on his second tour. we hope he comes home safe. if you would like you can send packages to my friend in iraq, he would be estatic. thank you.
(Address removed; see comment #270)
January 6th, 2007 at 3:15 pm
Hi-
I just found out that a school friend of mine is currently deployed to iraq. I know his name, and I think his unit. I’d like to send him a letter and was wondering if there was a way to find out the rest of the address…
Thanks!
January 18th, 2007 at 12:36 am
Hi,
I am a Lieutenant in the Marine Corps and this is my first deployment to Iraq. I will be here for a year, and don’t see myself receiving much mail or packages while I am here. I wanted to post my information so that anyone who might want to correspond or send packages can do that. I will definitely be extremely grateful and write all correspondents a reply. Thank you for your support and consideration.
[Mailing address removed per request of comment submitter; see Comment 139 below]
Once again, thanks for your support.
January 18th, 2007 at 2:07 am
Hey, My name is Michael Wickenhauser and I am a Specialist in the Army recently deployed from MN. My squad and I would appreciate any support we can get. Where we are going our communication will be limited to mail but we will be sure to respond with letters of gratitude. For anyone interested here is my information.
(Address removed; see comment #270)
Anything from DVD’s, Games, to Snacks and Books would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much for your time, MIKE
January 18th, 2007 at 9:41 am
Hello Tabitha and Michael, thank you for serving our country and I hope your deployments are safe.
Michael, I have edited your comment a bit to remove information about your unit size and movement dates. Please remember that OPSEC prevents revealing this information publicly.
January 23rd, 2007 at 1:17 am
I have friend over in Iraq and I wanted to send him a care package. I’ve gotten a lot of different ideas from this site which is great, but I still have one question. I know this is probably going to sound stupid and people may yell at me for even thinking it, but are we allowed to send like Christian oriented books? Not necessarily the Bible, but like a devotional or something or is that totally off bounds??
January 31st, 2007 at 5:18 pm
My brother is leaving for Iraq next week and I wanted to send him some magazines in his care package. I know he reads Maxim and Stuff but I also know they don’t allow pronographic material to be sent to the troops. Technically, they aren’t porn but they do tend to have some pretty risque pictures in them. Any suggestions/comments? Thanks :)
February 1st, 2007 at 3:45 am
I am a member of a group called Soldiers Angels, they match up soldiers whos names are given by other soldiers that notice they recieve no mail or packages. It is an awesome thing to do, you ‘adopt’ your soldier for his or her deployment…
http://www.soldiersangels.o...
February 3rd, 2007 at 6:00 pm
Some phone cards dont work over there, how do i find out which phone cards will work and which wont? e-mail me at da_luvbug_01@hotmail.com; subject: TroopInfo.
thanks for any help!
Ashley
February 4th, 2007 at 11:59 am
First of all, thanks so much for putting this page out there, i’ve been looking all over the net for a good list of things to send to someone in Iraq, so thanks! Anyways.. I have a friend in Iraq who i’m wanting to send a package to.. But what if i send homemade cookies and he doesnt get them for a couple weeks.. are they still going to be good.. maybe i stupid question, but i was just wondering..
February 6th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
When I send cookies/brownies, etc. I Saran Wrap each one indivually, place them in plastic baggies and then seal them up in those disposable Gladware containers. You can use tins too, when I used a tin I also lined the top with foil before I closed the lid to seal in the freshness. I read somewhere that if you put a piece of bread in as well it helps keep them fresh, but I have never done that and my boyfriend says the cookies have been fresh anyway. He’s been lucky enough to get my packages in about 7-10 days so if you think it might be longer you may want to include a piece of bread.
February 27th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
I just read the comment above about wrong addresses and I was curious how common it is for the original addresses the soldiers are given for family to send letters and packages to to be incorrect. My son just arrived in Irag 3 days ago and I wondered if we should wait to hear from him before mailing anything. Thanks for any info.
February 28th, 2007 at 9:37 pm
My son left the beginning of Feb. Today is his birthday… what a way to spend it.. He has arrived at his location… Got his address today but he beat me to a letter and package, he sent me one.. He is requesting things such as jerky, newspapers and really that is all so far but it is because they are not settled.. I have gotten so many ideas off of here, thanks and I am sure my son would thank you too if he could.. They are just trying to learn what is normal and not from their surroundings.. I am sure he will ask for more later but there is a great deal they can buy from the PX and he did remind me that his bebit card works there, what they need is to know we are constantly thinking of them enough to send things.. and a piece of HOME… this site prompted me to adopt a soldier and marine ( my nephew is a marine and leaves in March) while I make those care packages I will just make enough for two extras and be honored to do so.. As a military mom I am having a hard time moving on so this has helped and hopefully will fill my time and get me back to my old self..
I made my sister and I deployment bracelets ( never made a braclet in my life) like the ones on the site, and they were beautiful.. we wear them daily and will till our boys come home… great site
March 2nd, 2007 at 5:32 pm
I have some boxes I want to mail to a solier in iraq. The only address I found in her email to friends was “FOB Shield, Iraq” … is this the address I write on the box?????? Please advise and thanks!
March 2nd, 2007 at 7:21 pm
Hi Lydia, I don’t think just putting the name of their base will get the mail there; you need an address with “APO” in it. You should be able to call the home station of the unit that is deployed and ask them for an APO address for the soldier’s unit.
March 2nd, 2007 at 9:25 pm
I just found out that by going to the United States Postal Service website (www.usps.com) you can sign up for an account (free to sign up.. doesnt even require credit card info) and order flat rate boxes and envelopes at no charge (you pay when you ship them). The boxes cost $8.10, and the envelopes i believe are $4.05, no matter how much they weigh, so it’s a really good deal if you’re shipping something heavy. No delivery or shipping charge to get the materials delivered to your house either!
March 3rd, 2007 at 7:42 am
Thanks, Toby and Shelby, for your quick responses!!! This is a great website! I’m glad I “bumped” into it! The questions people ask are real, and the responses very helpful and informative! I guess I’ll have to do some digging around because I have no idea how to contact the home station of her deployed unit to get an APO address. I’ll try to see if I can figure out how to contact her parents. But thank you for “directing me in the right direction!” And, Shelby, I have SIX of those boxes you mentioned (each weighing a ton!) … ready to go! Thank you both again!
March 8th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
Hello friends and family-
In September of 2001, a Marine Corps wife created a program to support the single Marines of the 26th MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit). What began with a goal to help those service men and women deployed alongside her spouse, blossomed into “The Adopt a Single Marine Program.” Since then over 2,600 single Marines and sailors have been “adopted” due to the support of patriotic Americans, the assistance of many Marine Corps wives, the MCAS New River Single Marine Program, and the founder herself – all keeping the program alive today. The boost in morale and the success of the program has been amazing!
With this in mind, we want to keep the spirit alive and expand the program for a Marine unit from MCAS New River that has recently deployed overseas. We have received support from the command and the founder herself.
Traditionally, there are often a few hundred single Marines in these units who do not have spouses sending them supportive cards, letters, care packages, etc. to lift their spirits while far away from home. Given the present status of operational security and world issues, mail-call may be all that some of these individuals have to look forward to some days. In this unit, there are 112 single Marines that are interested in receiving your support, for they have individually signed-up in order to participate in this program. Therefore, we need 112 sponsors!
If you wish to join this effort, and sponsor (“adopt”) a single Marine for this deployment, PLEASE let us know as soon as possible. This is a commitment to your service member for the duration of the deployment, from the present until they return home to America (we do not have an end date at this time, however, it is anticipated that this deployment may last approximately 6 months). Your only expectation is to support your adopted individual the best that you can, and to do so at least once per month. For instance, you may want to send him/her an introductory card or letter to say “hello” and briefly introduce yourself. The next correspondence may include a care package with some “treats”. Just continue with whatever pace you’re comfortable with; however, it’s very important to send something at least once per month.
We do not want to let these Marines down. If you are unable to make such a commitment, please do not participate. You may help in other ways by forwarding this e-mail to reliable, potential sponsors - friends, family, church groups, Girl Scout/Boy Scout leaders, teachers with classrooms, Veterans, etc., anyone that you know well, trust, and think might be interested in “adopting” a single Marine or sailor.
*For the safety and security of our service members aboard these ships and in the field, please DO NOT post any of this information in a public place (i.e., bulletin board, website, newsletter, open internet chat-room, etc.). Doing so will put this entire program in jeopardy of being canceled. E-mail and word of mouth with personal friends and family are the only modes with clearance from the command to publicize this endeavor.*
If you are interested in adopting a single Marine for this deployment, please reply to Wendy via email at asmp263@comcast.net listing the following information in this requested format:
your name and your mailing address (on the same line please)
your email address (on the next line please)
Once again, we need ALL three pieces of information before we can get started. When we receive your information, we’ll match you on a first-come, first-served basis. Your “Adoption Papers” will then be e-mailed to you, most likely under the subject title of “Your Marine.” It will include your Marine’s name, mailing address, and other information to assist you with your mailings and support. If we have more sponsors than Marines, we will put your name on a waiting list. As a side note, since the Marines are a division of the Navy, and sailors are often attached to Marine units, single sailors are welcome by this program to sign-up for adoption as well.
You only need to reply if you would like to participate. If you e-mail us and do not receive a response within 1-2 weeks, PLEASE e-mail again and inquire about the status of your “adoption” (this will help avoid emails permanently lost in cyberspace).
March 10th, 2007 at 1:35 am
Someone was selling Girl Scout cookies at work and I thought it would be good idea if I bought a couple of boxes to send to our soldiers. The idea caught on and now I have @ 20 boxes to send. Problem! I don’t know anyone serving or an address to use. I know there is a website called “AnySoldier.com” but as I was looking at other sites one mentioned that AnySoldier had been shut down. Does any one have any idea where I can find an address to send these cookies? I would really appreciate it. Thank you!
March 10th, 2007 at 11:22 am
Who says that AnySoldier is shut down? It’s still working just fine, you can log on there and ask for the address of a liaison who will distribute your package to other soldiers that don’t get much mail. Seems to work pretty well as far as I can tell.
March 10th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
Thanks! Took your advise and found that it is working. Have an address to send the cookies to. Thanks again!
March 16th, 2007 at 7:54 am
Like Ashley - I would also like to know which phone cards are the best to send?
This is a wonderful website with great ideas on what to send to our soldiers overseas - thanks!!
March 19th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
the u.s. post office is offering free packing supplies to families of military personnell….just call 1-800-610-8734, tell them you have loved ones in the military, and would like to order the package…..boxes,tape,shipping labels,etc…good deal!
March 20th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
this is troop 130, we are thinking of sending care packegess, we need a waye to send pre made packegess, do you knoe a way
March 23rd, 2007 at 9:07 am
A group of us “adopted” a soldier from Soldiers Angels. This is a GREAT way to do it. You get an actual name of a soldier, or if you wish, soldiers, that you can communicate with. They ask for nothing except that you send at least one card or letter a week and one to two care packages a month.
March 23rd, 2007 at 9:07 am
Sorry, the website is http://www.soldiersangels.org
March 27th, 2007 at 11:49 pm
I read that anything illegal sent to a soldier can be prosecuted. I’m wondering about mixed cd’s. How serious are they about copyright infringement? If you buy songs from ITunes and burn a cd, is that still a copyright problem?
March 28th, 2007 at 12:07 am
Hi Angela,
I can assure you that neither you nor your soldier will be prosecuted for sending mixed CDs through the mail. Whatever you read was surely referring to contraband items such as weapons, alcohol, etc., and even in those cases they’ll simply confiscate or destroy the items. I have never heard of anyone being prosecuted for sending items to soldiers, and I saw plenty of stuff get sent that was in that “gray area”.
And to answer your question, I’m not a lawyer, but if you legally purchased those songs on iTunes then the “fair use” tenet of U.S. copyright law generally allows you to do such things as burn a mix CD for your friends. It’s only when it’s done on a large scale or with the intent to steal from the copyright owner that can get someone into trouble.
So, by all means, feel free to burn and send your soldier a mix CD.
April 2nd, 2007 at 1:32 pm
Can anyone tell me how i send a package to my soldier who is from the US and is in Iraq, from the UK, I have no idea and so much to send, and….crazy question what is considerd pornographic material? I cant be the only girl who has some photos to jog her fellas memory can i?? Please help Thank you
P.S love the web site keep up the good work
April 9th, 2007 at 12:11 pm
A really neat way to send a cake and it stays fresh!! They love this!!!!!!!!!
Cake in a Jar
Get wide-mouth canning jars (pint size). You can find them at Walmart, other stores, or online.
Boil the jars to sterilize.
1 (18.25 oz.) package cake mix (you can use ANY cake recipe instead of packaged)
8 jars with lids and rings
1. Make the cake according to the package instructions or recipe
2. Grease the jar. Put 1 cup of batter in each jar and keep the rims of the jar clean. (I fill mine up 1/2 way–try one first before you make all of them so you know how far to fill)
3. Place jars on cookie sheet on rack on the oven (to prevent them from tipping over). Bake for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes clean
4. While baking, boil jar lids in a pan of water ( I do rings too, but I’m anal)
5. When cake is done, take one jar out at a time and cover with hot lid. Screw on jar ring tightening it slightly.
6. The lid will seal as it cools. Listen to hear them “ping” as they seal. But if they don’t, wait until completely cool and then press on the top of the lid. If it doesn’t move at all, it’s sealed.
7. As the cake cools, it will pull away from the jar slightly. That’s ok. It just means that it will slide out of the jar easily.
8. Unsealed jars should be stored in fridge and eaten within 2 weeks. Sealed jars can also be stored in freezer; however, they should last sealed and unrefrigerated for quite a long time.
9. DO NOT FROST cake in the jar! Send frosting along.
10. Make sure you wrap the jars well (bubble wrap’s preferable, but wadded newspaper or clothing and other items will pad it too).
I’d suggest that you do a trial run of cake in a jars before you decide you’re going to send them. Try ONE jar in the oven before you fill the rest. If you don’t do this, you won’t know how far to fill them and could end up underfilling or overfilling them. If they’re slightly overfilled, mash the lid on top and screw the ring down. It’ll seal and be just fine!
Don’t forget a plastic knife (or two) for the frosting and some plastic forks.
You might want to send instructions on how to get them out–unseal, tap gently, pour out. Or the guys can eat them right out of the jar.
It’s fun to hear–”How did you get the cake in there?” Apparently, there have been many utterances of that statement. One person actually spoke about a group of guys gathered around trying to figure out how she accomplished this minor miracle!
DBF’s line was “How did you DO that?” He was truly amazed.
__________________________________
April 13th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Hi,
I am in a simialr situation to Bear (april 2nd,blog 105). I have a friend in Afgha….I got the Apo and the number to send but I have just posted a parcel from the UK using those numbers and I am now wondering if it will get there?
Please help me as I know he will be disappointed not to receive the parcel. When at the post office they asked me for the British Forces numbers and I couldn’t give them that….
April 23rd, 2007 at 3:50 pm
I just wanted to let everyone know how easy it is to order the Military Care Kits. It includes 2 flat rate boxs, 2 cubed boxs, tape and tags.
All you have to do is call 1 800 610-8734
Choose english or spanish options
then select option 1
When a live agen comes on the phone tell her you want to order
Care Kits 04
She will get your address info and mail them out. She said it takes about 10 days to recieve.
I hope this helps
Angels with you all
April 26th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
I would love to write to anyone overseas. I am sure they would like something to read also, how do I get names and addresses?
April 27th, 2007 at 9:21 pm
Nichole & Others,
I wanted to do the same thing and found a group called Soldier’s Angels a few months ago. (www.soldiersangels.org) This was started in 2003 by a soldier’s (Brandon Varn) Mom who was concerned about his fellow soldiers not receiving any mail or packages from ‘home’. Her grass roots idea grew into a non-profit, and through my research I found plenty of good press about the organization that reassured me it is legit.
I requested and was ‘assigned’ a soldier who I’ve had fun sending packages and notes to. For people who wish to help in additional ways, there are other teams you can join such as cards, chaplain support, etc. There is also a weekly newsletter with special support requests for soldiers. Through this newsletter, I have also ‘adopted’ a few other soldiers whose stories touched me.
I have found this to be an incredibly rewarding experience. They caution you may not hear back from your soldier(s), but I don’t need that acknowledgement to know that I am doing a good thing that really makes a difference to someone!
While you may disagree with the war and all the politics surrounding it (as I do), I am determined to do my small part in making sure that these dedicated inviduals who are making huge sacrifices for Americans, not experience the disappointing treatment that our Vietnam Vets did.
Blessings and gratitude for all the other ‘Angels’ on this blog who are supporting soldiers in many different ways. We DO make a difference.
Lilly Beth
May 1st, 2007 at 11:52 pm
My son is being deployed to Iraq in May. I just stumbled upon this site. Wow! I have learned alot about how to ship care packages and items to send. Thank you for a wonderful website. I’m going to order the military kit from the post office so I have care packages ready to go as soon as he gives me his official mailing address. Thank you to all of you who support our soldiers.
May 2nd, 2007 at 4:18 pm
Fantastic blog, lots of information for anyone with friends or family in Iraq.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:31 am
I personally know 3 soldiers currently stationed in Iraq. One is my best friend of 7 years. He has support from his family but alot of the family members have been too busy to send care packages and letters. He will be there until November of 2007, and this has been the best blog on how to get items from America to Iraq. Him and I correspond over e-mail, but sometimes I feel that e-mail just isnt enough. The 2 soldiers are cousins of mine, who joined together and are overseas together.
May 10th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
I would like to know how a package gets to Iraq. ihave been told that many items have been stolen. The Logistics Civil Augmentation Program are the ones who handle the mail. the nation site says:
“Under the terms of KBR’s master contract, the Army is specifically tasked with providing force protection for KBR’s thousands of employees. Since 2002 KBR has held what is known as the LOGCAP III contract, which stands for Logistics Civil Augmentation Program. Under that contract it provides support services for the Army ranging from serving meals to delivering fuel, washing laundry and delivering mail, duties that used to be handled by the Army itself.”
Corp watch says that the Iraqui’s don’t handle the mail. KBR Workers in Iraq Paid 50 cents an Hour.
I always thought that mail went from us directly to the Military Postal Officials. Is it true that Iraqui’s touch the mail and deliver it?
May 10th, 2007 at 9:03 pm
Hello cb,
I obviously can’t speak for every piece of mail that goes to Iraq but when I was there, the mail was never touched by anyone except U.S. military personnel. Not even KBR was tasked with handling it. Once it is transferred from the USPS to the military, it is sent via military transportation to the receiving unit.
Obviously, there will be cases of lost or destroyed mail (such as if a transport truck is hit with a roadside bomb), and no one can say that there aren’t any dishonest soldiers in the system, but it cannot be stolen by Iraqis or KBR personnel as far as I know.
May 12th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
Dear “Friends,”
We started a new project on April 12, 2007 and that is sending goody boxes to Iraq. We have sent 169 boxes so far to one gentleman who distributes them when the boxes arrive there.
We would like to send them to individuals also and my question is where do we get recommended soldiers to send them too. See my web site http://www.humanitariansociety.org
Thank you for your advise and assistance.
God bless us everyone.
Dr. Wayne T. Moses, Ph.D., 6811 Villas Drive, Boca Raton, Florida 33433 Telephone: 561/362-8530
PS: We have been sending them to
(Address removed; see comment #270)
May 18th, 2007 at 10:20 pm
For anyone who’s interested in sending stuff to Iraq and need ideas for care package stuffers….this is what my brother asked for today:
Swiffer pads
small vaccuum
q-tips
breakfast food/breakfast bars
drink powder packets: crystal light, kool-aid, lemonade
mosquito net
canned air
so beyond the obvious stuff like cookies/cards, they need things to deal with the sand, dirt and bugs.
May 23rd, 2007 at 3:38 pm
I would suggest sending everything in a ziplock bag, that way they would have something to store the item in once it is opened. Helps keep the bugs and sand out of things.
May 30th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
If you go to my site on my space (www.myspace.com/wvquietangel) and click on my friend- Operation Adopt A Soldier and they will send you a name of a soldier who you can send things to. They also send a list of most requested items. I just started this about a week ago.I have sent two boxes so far- I am sending one a week. But I just found out a mistake that I was making but will not happen in the next book. I found out today not to send food items in the same box as personal items- oops. So next week I will start sending two seperate boxes. I really feel bad about it- but I did not know prior to today.
June 3rd, 2007 at 12:26 pm
If you go to (www.myspace.com/malboeufjp), you will meet my husband. He is a soldier currently stationed in Iraq. He has explained they are very short of grooming equipment there
(i.e. nail clippers, tweeser, small mirror) the other items quoted in previous Blogs are also wanted and are nice:
Q-tips, powder drinks, dry goods, games, etc.
They do not waste or turn down anything… Their unit is a focal point and is known for sharing, They can also use battery powered equipment (i.e. alarm clocks, flashlights)…and batteries…He also said biggest item needed past tolietries would be they need Pens, pens, pens… hard to reply with nothing to write with….
You can reach them at:
(Address removed; see comment #270)
((or))
(Address removed; see comment #270)
Both addresses go to the same units…..
He promises that they will share any items with all units everything is placed in their common area.
God Bless You
June 3rd, 2007 at 1:47 pm
My finacee is in Iraq and loves Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. He really wants me to send him bread over there because he can’t buy it in the PX. I was wondering if anyone has done this. I am afraid because of the extreme heat that the bread will sweat and it wont be any good. Does anyone have any advice?
June 3rd, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Hi Ashley, I can’t say I’ve ever sent or received PB&J sandwiches while in the desert, but I would recommend you not send “assembled” sandwiches.. instead, send slices of bread and small jars of peanut butter and jelly.
Package the bread into 2-slice “bundles”, wrapping each bundle with several layers of cling-wrap so he only has to open one bundle at a time. Maybe that will help it keep. If the bread doesn’t work maybe you could substitute graham crackers for him to make sandwiches with. At least those would be much better than the “crackers” (I use that term loosely) that come with MREs!
June 3rd, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Hehe! I wasn’t going to send them assembled. Thanks for the advice though. Do you think cling wrap or aluminum foil will be better though? Im afraid the plastic might make it sweat.
June 4th, 2007 at 8:35 am
Well, you never know; while I was deployed I had some very well-meaning friends and relatives who were a bit too optimistic about the condition stuff can arrive in sometimes!
It sounds like you know what you’re doing, maybe aluminum foil is a better idea…
June 4th, 2007 at 5:09 pm
Hi everyone, just wanted to let you know about soldiersnacks.com. We used them to send a package to my brothers girlfriend in Iraq, and she was so happy with what they sent. She said they even added some extra sunflower seeds and snacks in her package, and added extra stuff for other soldiers. This whole package thing is new to us, and the customs form is such a hassle they do everything and it was just so easy using them I thought that I would let everyone know about it. God Bless.
June 5th, 2007 at 9:23 am
Ashley,
If your fiance is in a place where he could use one, send him a bread maker and the bread mixes for it. I have read alot about the soldiers making their own bread and it really is a big hit and the bread is as fresh as it is going to get.
June 7th, 2007 at 12:29 pm
this website is really great! But i wouldnt send bread. Sometimes it takes up to 4 weeks till they get a package. I sent my boyfriend a package and thats almost like 5 weeks ago n he still hasnt go it yet. :( but i will try the cake. I hope it works out!
June 8th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
I have found that over the past 4 years and 3 deployments that my food saver has been my best friend. I have wrapped EVERYTHING with that thing and the items get there just like they were baked yesterday (even though some boxes have taken 3 weeks) I started with shoe boxes, paper towels and bubble wrap with the cookies but that was very difficult and sometimes they didn’t get there in very good shape. So now i just put everything in the plastic bag