Assembling care packages unites Americans in support of troops serving overseas
One of the best parts of the day for a deployed soldier is mail call. A soldier's morale is often improved by a show of support from home. Whether you have a soldier serving overseas, or you plan to adopt a soldier to support during his deployment, sending care packages is an easy way to show you care.
Game Night
To pass the time when not on duty, many soldiers play cards and board games. Send a game-themed package that includes a deck of cards, poker chips, board games, puzzles, candy and nuts. Also include a pad of paper, pens and pencils.
Love and Kisses
Send a special care package to your sweetheart to remind him of the love that waits back home. Include a framed photo of the two of you together, his favorite candy and a romantic letter. Make the box even more personal by including a pillow or blanket that's been sprayed with your perfume and sealed in a plastic bag. Fill extra space in the box with red balloons or fabric rose petals.
Hawaiian Luau
Nothing says party like a luau. Send a Hawaiian-themed care package to your deployed soldier that includes canned pineapple juice, macadamia nuts, coconut macaroons, plastic leis, grass skirts, and a CD of ukulele music.
Workout Supplies
Deployed soldiers spend time off duty working out. A fitness-themed care package can supply items that are unobtainable in a deployed environment and will be put to good use. Include packages of sports drink powder, jump ropes, energy bars, vitamins, white gym socks, foot powder and deodorant. Use fitness magazines to fill extra space in the box.
Items to Avoid
Never ship any item that will melt, such as chocolate, and wrap all perishable items in plastic. Sunscreen is issued to the troops in large quantities and will likely not be used. Pork products, alcohol, pornography and aerosol cans are strictly prohibited. Peter Graeve, an analyst at the Military Postal Service Agency, encourages anyone shipping care packages to deployed soldiers to ask the local post office for a list of package restrictions.
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