Good Things to Send Army Soldiers From Kids
When a soldier is deployed, mail call may be the best part of the day. Not all soldiers have someone waiting at home to send mail, so a package from a child can brighten the soldier's day. Most deployed soldiers have access to a small shopping center that may not have all the specific brands the soldier prefers from home, so sending those items will bring a smile to the soldier's face.
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Nonperishable Items
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There are many items in this category; however, specific brand names for the items are most appreciated. Some items that are often requested include hand sanitizer, lip balm, toothpaste, toilet paper, sunscreen with an SPF 45, aloe vera gel, mouthwash, first aid kits, nail files and clippers, Tylenol, bug spray and multivitamins.
Snack Foods
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The most requested snacks and drinks are beef jerky, coffee (ground), powdered drinks, sunflower seeds, tuna and chicken salad in foil pouches, and protein powder and bars. Granola bars, gum, hard candy, pretzels, chips, ramen noodles, small boxes of cereal, fruit snacks and trail mix are also requested.
Sending chocolate candy and cookies is best during the winter months, as they are less likely to melt. Also, glass bottles or jars should not be sent.
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Entertainment Items
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Soldiers enjoy magazines and video games during their downtime. New and used video games and systems can be sent overseas. Batteries needed include AA, AAA, C and 9 volt. Recently released movies on DVD help the soldiers pass the time. Itunes gift cards, disposable cameras, electronic hand-held games, computer flash drives, headphones, board games and sports equipment are all items the soldiers will appreciate.
Personal Items
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Soldiers can use sunglasses, cotton T-shirts (green or tan undershirts), cotton or wool socks (black, olive green, or white), alarm clocks, fleece blankets and hats, small flashlights and air fresheners.
Small Items to Give to Iraqi or Afghani Children
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Soldiers enjoy sharing the items they receive with the children in the communities where they are stationed. Small stuffed animals as well as school supplies make great gifts.
Cards and Letters
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As enjoyable as all these items are to receive, nothing will bring a smile to a soldier's face more than a personal note from a child. Whether it is a card that simply states "Thank you" or a banner with a group of children's signatures, the soldier will treasure the handwritten items most. If the child requests, the soldier may be a pen pal for them.
Shipping
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The post office has boxes with a flat rate, and the only cost is the fee when mailing the package. A customs form is necessary when shipping a box overseas, so have the soldier's name, address and unit available when mailing the box. It is necessary to list the items in the package on the customs form. It may take several weeks for the package to reach the soldier as it goes through different states and countries before reaching its destination.
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- Photo Credit american flag image by Richard Kane from Fotolia.com
