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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/5/2008 11:34:05 PM | | This is really good. I am getting even more good ideas. I need to comprise my own list to cary with me in my purse. MontrealGuy, those blankets are a great idea and the solar battery charger. I haven't seen those blankets in forever, know a place where they will always be? Maybe a hunting store? | |
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4rum
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Joined: 5/10/2008
Msg: 52 | |
| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/5/2008 11:41:04 PM | OP, if you do a search, there's a thread asking about care packages. A couple of serving and ex military blokes posted on the thread, telling what there's an abundance of and what things they liked getting.
Also , a couple of civvies who send stuff and how they got into it. I can't remember the thread's name sorry. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/6/2008 6:51:09 AM |
MontrealGuy, those blankets are a great idea and the solar battery charger. I haven't seen those blankets in forever, know a place where they will always be? Maybe a hunting store?
Well, you could most probably find them in a hunting supply store or medical supplies store. I've seen them in dollar stores here. Amazon and Ebay should have them, too.
Keep a couple for yourself, btw. They can be placed in a cars glove compartment, purse , or coat pocket and take up little room. They can also be used for a variety of things, both in Iraq and America.  They should be available for less than one dollar each, in bulk.
As for solar battery chargers, Google for something like the Solio.
http://www.solio.com/charger/
Solio® Hybrid 1000™ – Never be caught without a charge!
When on the go power for your gadgets is key, plug into the Solio® Hybrid 1000. This hybrid boasts a powerful solar panel and battery in an incredibly compact and slender case, conveniently geared with a built-in rugged carabiner and cable. The Hybrid 1000 is simple to use. Just clip on, plug in, and charge up!
Universal Charger – Power virtually all your electronic devices. Works out of the box with most common mobile phones, MP3 players, and GPS units - simply change the adaptor tip.
Stores Power - Charge your devices anytime, day or night. Internal rechargeable battery stores power for up to one year. (A full Solio H1000 will charge a typical mobile phone once or give 10 hours of MP3 music - just 1 hour of sunshine = 15 minutes talk time or 40 minutes of MP3 music).*
Hybrid Charger - Charge anywhere on Earth. Plug into the Sun and charge Solio through its solar panel, it’s free and green! Or use the included tip to charge from the USB port of any computer.
Technical Specifications: Rechargeable battery 3.7V 1000mAh (Lithium Ion). Rated output 1.5 to 5 watts. DC input charge range: 5-6 volts at 400mA. Solar panel output 0.6 watts. Dimensions 198 x 68 x 18mm.
http://store.solio.com/s.nl/it.A/id.189/.f?sc=7&category=109
Now if someone is stationed out in the middle of nowhere, something like that will allow them power for any battery powered devices they might have. It can even be clipped on, and carried around without worrying about losing it.
International phone calling cards might be a big help, too. They also become a gift for yourself, as being the one probably called.
Phones are available, but can be expensive, and the lines to use them are often quite long. Individuals are limited to about 20 minutes per phone session. To use one of the phones, a soldier must use a credit or debit card. Calling cards may be used, but if you're planning to send one to someone in Iraq, be aware that a card worth 200 minutes here, might be worth only 20 minutes (or less) in Iraq. International calls are much more expensive than domestic calls.
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=16751761&BRD=
1140&PAG=461&dept_id=151338&rfi=6
If you don't have anyone serving in Iraq, you can still help the ones there :
http://www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com/
Locking carabiners , high quality ones, are always useful. They are not standard issue, surprisingly, from what I've heard.
Small LED flashlights (red's best for night vision reasons) are cheap and always useful in the field. A book light might be another thing to think of, and they aren't expensive either. Something like a Mini Maglite flashlight is very useful anywhere. A good quality headlamp is always practical to have access too.
How about a small portable "air conditioner" that works with tap water ?
10 oz Misty Mate Pump Personal Misting Air Cooler
Introducing the newest member of the Misty Mate™ family. The 10 oz Misty Mate™ Pump. Unlike its siblings, this little guy clips right onto your belt or pocket with a belt clip. Although small, this convenient unit provides the same mist which keeps you up to 30 degrees cooler than the surrounding air temperature.
Lightweight! Weighing less than 2 lbs. when full, the 10 oz Misty Mate™ is so lightweight you'll hardly know your carrying it! Just clip it on with the built-in belt clip and you’re ready to go.
Easy to use! Simply unscrew the cap, fill with water and pump it up! Built-in pump pressurizes the system. No Batteries, no motors!
The 10 oz. model can last up to 1½ hours of intermittent use. Add ice cubes for a real cool sensation in high humidity. Includes coiled tubing with clip for attaching to your pants or shorts.
Great for any outdoor activity! Sunbathing, hiking, biking, golf, spectator sports, fishing, boating, construction, outdoor work, fairs, festivals or anywhere, anytime it's hot! Assorted Colors Only: You will receive Blue or Yellow.
http://www.safetycentral.com/10ozmismatpu.html
No moving parts, nothing to break, and all you need is water. When it's over a hundred degrees outside, something like this might make life a lot more comfortable for a soldier.
A Frisbee ? That's something that might go over really well, too. 
A good quality inflatable pillow ? That packs easily, and is another godsend in the field.
A really creative idea I read about ? Send one of those portable seatbelt cutters you can find in stores today. It can be used to cut a seatbelt (soldiers do wear them, you know), or even cut webbing or uniforms .
http://www.defensedevices.com/seat-belt-cutter.html
Forget about the one's with the window punch, which will be useless against bullet proof glass. 
Those chemical pocket hand/foot warmers might be a good thing on a cold night too, take them out of the pack, expose them to air and shake them, and you've got hours of warmth.
Ear plugs ? If you are trying to catch some sleep, they can make a big difference.
A Kelly Kettle is another little miracle invention you might want to look at.
http://www.leevalley.com/garden/page.
aspx?c=2&p=43901&cat=2,40725,45454&ap=3
First used over a century ago by Irish gypsies and Irish fishermen, a Kelly Kettle will boil water in just a few minutes, depending on the fuel.
Made from aluminum, it is essentially a double-walled chimney with the water contained in the chimney's double wall. Fill the kettle with water, start a very small fire in the base, set the kettle on the base and drop additional fuel (twigs, leaves, grass, twists of paper, etc.) down the chimney. The large internal chimney surface area heats the water very quickly.
A portable ice cream maker, hand powered ? That might make a man king over there. All you need us access to rock salt, cream, and ice cubes . You might want to check on the availability of those things before thinking of buying it.
Ice Cream Maker by UCO
* Great fun for the whole family while camping or picnicking.
* Make ice cream anywhere you have access to ice.
* Just add ingredients (ice, rock salt, cream, sugar, etc.)
* Shake and eat!
* No electricity needed.
* Made of cxtremely durable translucent polycarbonate and aluminum,
* Weight: Under 2 lbs. (empty).
* Diameter: 8"
* Color Options: Blue, Red, Purple, Pink, Orange, Green, Crystal
http://www.campbound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=269
You could do the same with Ziploc bags, or two coffee cans, btw.
What you'll need:
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1/2 cup milk or half & half
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
* 6 tablespoons rock salt
* 1 pint-size plastic food storage bag (e.g., Ziploc)
* 1 gallon-size plastic food storage bag
* Ice cubes
How to make it:
1. Fill the large bag half full of ice, and add the rock salt. Seal the bag.
2. Put milk, vanilla, and sugar into the small bag, and seal it.
3. Place the small bag inside the large one, and seal it again carefully.
4. Shake until the mixture is ice cream, which takes about 5 minutes.
5. Wipe off the top of the small bag, then open it carefully. Enjoy!
http://crafts.kaboose.com/ice-cream-in-a-bag.html
Condensed milk could be used, too.
A combination stuff bag/football ? Just pack in some socks, and it's touch football time.
Granite Gear Stuff Football
* Stuff a piece of clothing (socks not included) and have a ball anywhere!
* Ultralight cordura balls with water-resistant YKK zippers.
* Fun camp toy and useful stuff bag all in one.
* Assorted colors.
http://www.campbound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=271
Just some ideas to make like a bit more pleasant, for those serving.  | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/6/2008 8:24:42 AM | OP..I have a huge list of things to send to our TROOPS overseas,being a Military Mom,,I learned that sometimes the simplest of things bring the greatest joy to our troops...this may take 2 emails...but very well worth it to anyone who has a loved one overseas,or even stateside!
Gel insoles
Foot powder
T-shirts
Underwear
Socks
Glade Stick-Ups
Blanket from home
Pillow with a soft pillowcase and maybe a fabric softener sheet
A big fluffy towel
Toilet paper
Small battery operated fan
Baby wipes
Eye drops
Instant coffee. You can get it in many different flavors.
Tea bags
Powdered Gatorade. Don't forget a pitcher, jug or some sort of container.
Lemonade mix. (pre-sweetened)
Kool-Aid. (pre-sweetened)
Powdered hot chocolate. It also comes in many flavors.
Send self addressed stamped envelopes.
a roll of stamps
Calling cards
Pictures of you ("G" rated ... that means NO shots of naked body parts)
pictures of family
pictures of friends
pictures of home
Send letters that you've recorded on tape
Send him a video letter
Make a mix tape of all your favorite songs
Send board games-the ones they have made into key chains.
Videotape their favorite shows on tv. Ensure they can watch it.
Send favorite magazines. Check the postal restrictions
Disposable cameras.
Send a few toys. Slinkys, squirt guns, etc.
Theme packages.
Send pocket electronic games. About $10 each
Make and send a miniature scrapbook.
Dixie cups
Small battery operated light
Batteries
Cordless electric razor
Sunblock
A small sewing kit.
A stress ball
Stamps, paper and envelopes
Padded mailing envelope
Eyeglass cleaner wipes
Non-Microwave Meals: (Ensure that there access to a source of HOT water.)
Cup 'o Noodles soups
Dry cereal. Small, individual serving boxes.
Instant oatmeal or grits.
Breakfast bars. Granola, cereal and power bars.
Bowl Appetite dinners.
Pop tarts.
Tuna in the "fresh pouch". Doesn't require draining
Beef Sticks such as Slim Jims
Crackers and a Cheese spread.
CAUTION: Spray-cans may explode!
Potted meat and crackers
Single servings of bagged chips.
Cookies.
Tuna with crackers.
Triscuits and Ritz crackers
Lunchables. Many varieties that don't have to be refridgerated.
Candy, of course.
Snack Cakes
M & M's
Graham crackers.
Chocolate-dipped pretzels
Pre-packaed brownies.
Licorice
Bubble gum
Snack mixes like Chex Mix
Nuts - Cashews, peanuts, etc.
Pretzels
Rice Krispie Treats!
Applesauce, pudding or fruit cups with the pop-off lids.
Trail mix
Razors
Shaving cream
Foot powder
Shampoo
Conditioner
After shave lotion
Soap
Mouth wash
Panty shields (the men use them as helmet liners)
Pizza Party in a Box
Aluminum Pizza Pans
Pizza Cutter
Mixing Bowl
Pizza Mix in a Box
Can Sliced Mushrooms
Can Sliced Olives
Pepperoni or Turkey Pepperoni
Packets of Red Pepper & Parmesan Cheese
Red & White Checked Pizzaria Napkins
Plates or Small Personal Pan Pizza Boxes
The guys who received it said it was the best meal they had over
there! I'm sure it brought many smiles as well as happy taste buds
to all the guys/gals. They'll find an oven somewhere, where there's
a will there's a way! Some have cooked it on the pan on a bbq grill,
they'll find a way.
I think it would be easy and fun to send Pizza Hut personal pan boxes
over. Just to remind them of home.
ITEMS SOLDIERS HAVE FREQUENTLY REQUESTED FOR:
1. Easy Mac & Cheese
2. Tuna in a Pouch
3. Hearty Soups/Stews
4. Beef Jerky/Beef Sticks
5. Any can food you can warm up like soup
FOOD:
Any kind of prepackaged snack foods
Apple Cider Mix Packets
Applesauce in pouches
Beef Jerky
Beef summer sausage
Breakfast and granola bars
Brownies
Candies that travel well, like gummy bears and licorice and trail mix
Candy Canes
Canned chips, pringles, Single serve bags of chips,
Canned soup, any canned food they love - without pork
Cereal, Single Size Boxes
Cheese Crackers
Cheese in a can
Chex mix, individual packets
Chips, individual packets
Chocolate – any kind that travels well
Chocolate Biscuits
Chocolate drink mixes
Coca Cola and other soft drinks in Plastic Bottles
Coffee, creamer and sugar, in individual packets
Coffee, Instant and flavored coffee mixes
Cookies
Country time lemonade sweetened powders
Cracker Jack
Crackers - Triscuits and Ritz crackers are great
Crunch & Munch
Cup Of Noodles
Dried Fruit
Easy Cheese
Fast food condiments (Hot sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt and pepper
packets, relish, Mayo)
Fresh breeze or other throat lozenges
Fruit Roll Ups
Fruit, Canned For One in Pull Back Lids
Gatorade
Granola Bars
Gum
Hard Candies
Hot Chocolate, individual serves
Jelly, individual packs
Juice in pouches or boxes (CAPRI SUN, ETC)
Kool aid, pre-sweetened
Kraft Easy Mac,
Licorice
Life Saver Candy
Little Debbie snack cakes
Lunch box size-Jolly Ranchers have been suggested)
Lunchables (non-refrigerated)
Mini Marshmallows for Hot Choc. Mix (and for packing material)
Non-melting candy, gum, marshmallows, lollipops
Noodle packets, instant
Nuts, individual packs
Oatmeal
Oreo Cookies
Pop Tarts
Popcorn, Microwave packs (some units have access to microwaves)
Powdered hot chocolate
Powdered sugared drink mixes (Gatorade, Kool-Aid, sweetened of
course, etc.)
Pretzels
Pringles
Pudding For One
Ragu Express
Raisins - HEB has a bag of tiny packs for $1
Ramen Soup
Ravioli, Canned with pop top/ pull back lids
Rice Krispie Treats
Salad dressing & any other sauces they can use to dress up their MREs
Salsa and corn chips of course! Bean and cheese dips are a favorite!
Sardines
Shoe String Potato Sticks in a Can
Slim Jims
Soup, Instant or canned
Spices (Onion powder, garlic powder, spice all, etc)
Sunflower Seeds, individual packs
Tea - powdered lemon tea or Iced Tea Mix
Tea bags
Throat Lozenges
Tostitos Snack Packs (especially for our Texas guys!)
Trail mix
Tuna Snack Kits
Tuna, in pouch or cans with pop top/ pull back lids
Turkey breast in pouch or cans with pop top/ pull back lids
Water – bottled drinking water
TOILETRIES & PERSONAL ITEMS (travel size where applicable):
After shave lotion
Antibiotic cream
Baby powder
Baby wipes
Big bath towel & wash cloth (dark colors only)
Black Kiwi cream shoe polish (paste only)
Blister pads
Boot powder,
Breath mints
Bug Repellent & Mosquito Coils
Carmex (tub style) Wal-Mart $1
Chilly willies (these can be used as cold and hot compresses too)
http://web.cetlink.net/~angel111/chillywilly/Chilly%20Willy%
20Neckties.htm
Clorox/antibacterial wipes - for surfaces
Combs, brushes
Comfort bath body towelettes (one pkg. Is 2 complete body baths)
Cot organizer
Cotton balls
Dental floss
Deodorant, sample size
Disposable cameras
Disposable razors
Dr. Scholl's footpads
Dust masks
Emergency toothache kit.
Eye drops Wal-Mart $1
Eyewash
Face cleaning wet pads
Facial tissue
Feminine Hygiene Products
Fly swatters
Gel insoles
Gold Bond (for feet)
Hand Warmers (little bag type warmers)
Hand/body lotion (unscented)
Imodium pills, ibuprofen, aspirin, cough drops, etc
Insect Repellent, Wal-Mart $4 OR SKIN SO SOFT (Avon)
Lip balm with sunscreen, also handy in winter
Liquid antibacterial soap
Medicated foot powder
Mouth wash - Walgreen's OR Wal-Mart sample display $1 (make sure it
doesn't contain alcohol)
Nail file and clipper
Odor Eaters (for boots)
Parachute cord or small line for laundry
Personal cooling system from Sharper Image
Plastic bags, trash and zip lock
Q-tips
Rolaids or Tums
Saline Nasal Spray
Shampoo & conditioner, sample sizes
Shaving cream, individual use sachets are great
Shower shoes
Single use cold compresses
Skin Softeners (moisturizes)
Soap or body wash
Soap, for body and clothes Wal-Mart samples aisle 2/$1
Socks, white
T-shirts, undershirts, white
Solar shower
Sports cream or ben-gay
Squeeze breeze
Standard bed pillow / case (dark colors only) you can roll pillow to
squeeze out all the air and secure with shipping tape to keep it
small for
shipping.
Sunglasses (wrap around)
Sunscreen/SUNBLOCK - even in winter, the sun can be harsh
Thermal Underwear
Toilet paper/tissue
Toothpaste & toothbrush Walgreen's has a small Colgate with a compact
covered brush for $1
T-shirts
Underwear
Vaseline skin care lotion
Vitamins, multi, c, zinc, b-12, etc
Wash cloth
Waterless antibacterial hand soap
Wet ones
Wool/cotton blend or 100% cotton men's socks (dark solid colors only
black, dark green, blue or gray, men's size 10-13)
Zinc oxide
Ziploc bags-dollar tree has these for $1 a box and the ones with
zippers
are excellent!
FREE TIME MATERIALS.
Address Books
Air mattress
Balloons
Bandannas
Banners
Baseball caps
Batteries (like AA, AAA, etc)
Battery powered fan for cot
Birthday decorations
Board games (chess, checkers, Monopoly, etc.)
Books
Crossword Books
Dartboards
Disposable camera – include a padded mailer with the appropriate
postage so that they can mail it back to you for developing
Electronics hand held games
Envelopes
Film
Flashlight w/red lenses
Frisbees
Hackie sacks
Joke books
Journals
Jump ropes
Key chains games and puzzles
Magazines (wrestling, boxing, fitness magazines, sports magazines,
comic books, Mad, Field & Stream, Guns & Ammo, Outdoor Life)
Mini hand held fans
Mini or full size foam footballs and basketballs
Newly released movies, movies you tape from cable or TV programs
(pornography is not allowed)
Newspapers
Notepads
Paper and envelopes
Patriotic Stickers or Bumper Stickers
Pens
Phone cards
Playing Cards
Pocketknife
Portable CD players
Post cards from your home state
Puzzles
Radio headsets
Sidewalk chalk
Silly putty,
Single sheet sets
Slinky
Small Photo Albums
Stamps
Stress ball.
Tiny Christmas Trees With Decorations
Toys and Games…anything extra silly.
Travel Board Games
Trivia Books
Walkman radio
Word puzzle books
Yo Yo's
Themed Care Packages
" Surviving the Sandstorms"- Eye wash; Nasal spray; Chapstick;
Bandana; goggles/sun glasses; etc
"Laundry Load"- Laundry soap (`sample size' or Tide tablets kind) to
pack in with their clothes….in case there are no washer/dryers;
Fabric softener sheets; clean socks and undershirts; Febreeze
"Lotta Java"- Tea; Cocoa; Coffee singles; creamer; sugar;
International Coffee tins; cookies for dunking in coffee
"Thanks a Million!!"- Things that may "seem" expensive. Ex: Grey
Poupon; electronic game of "Who wants to be a Millionaire?"; .
"Hang in There!"- Stuffed animal monkey; Banana bread; Banana chips;
Banana pudding (the kind that doesn't have to be refrigerated);
Monkey's in a Barrel game; card with a monkey on it.
"A Day at the Beach!"- sunscreen; beach towel; beach snacks; flip
flop sandals (shower shoes); aloe vera gel;
"Medicine Cabinet"- aspirin; band-aids; Neosporin cream; A&D
ointment; cold medicine; alka seltzer; Rolaids; etc.
"Staying Healthy"- nutrition/health bars (ex: Powerbar; Tigers Milk;
Myoplex); vitamins; Nutri-grain bars; Gatorade or other sports drink
(to stay hydrated);
"MRE/Mess Hall Survival Kit"- restaurant size condiment packs of: bbq
sauce, mustard, ketchup, mayo, relish, salt. Pepper, taco sauce,
ranch, cheese in a can dip, etc
"Correspondence Carton"- notebook paper; stationery; pens; pencils;
stickers (who knows they may even play with these!!); envelopes,
address book (filled out already of course); camera (with a note to
send back once it is full);
"Action Hero's"- Powerbars; squirt guns; Red Bull drinks; small Army
figurines; comic books; Gatorade; Red Bull drinks; etc
"To Be A Kid Again"- silly string; bubbles; small bouncy balls; hacky
sacks; brain teaser toys (rubix cube, etc); deck of cards; dominoes;
slinky, Frisbee's; Pez w/ dispenser; Nerf balls; sand box toys (pail,
small shovel, etc);
"Bathroom in a Box"- TOILET PAPER!!! (the soft stuff); razor refills;
foot powder; bars of soap; fresh, clean, soft washcloth; travel size
shampoo/conditioner; toothpaste; toothbrush; etc
"Ruck Sack Snack Pack"- packed full of your loved one's favorite
snacks….possibilities endless. Doritos; M&M's; nuts; chips; dips;
crackers; jelly beans; beef jerky; gum; etc.
"Breakfast on the GO"- mutrigrain bars; instant oatmeal cups; small
boxes of cereal; pop tarts; Hostess donuts: Otis Spunk Meyer muffins;
cocoa; coffee; Tang;
"Tube O Tasties"- Just as something different…send a package in a
tube instead of a square box. Make sure the parameters are acceptable
though.
"Stress Reliever"- back scratcher; bubble wrap; yo-yo's; bubbles;
squeezy tension ball;
"Sloppy Kisses"- since we know chocolate melts over there….send a
bunch of Hershey's kisses. Bound to be "sloppy kisses!"
"I'm Nuts About You"- peanuts; cashews; pistachios; peanut butter
cookies; any candy or cookies with nuts in them; Nutter Butter's;
Peanut Lover's Chex mix; Fiddle Faddle with peanuts
"Rock On" or "Charlie ROCK"- pop rocks; music cd's
"Chili Today, Hot Tamale"- hot tamales (candy); small cans of chili;
red pepper flakes (like the ones at pizza parlors); salsa sunflower
seeds; Cajun flavor Pringles; Spicy chex mix; Boston red hots;
peppered beef jerky; taco bell hot sauce packets; Extreme Doritos;
chili powder; nacho cheese sauce in a can; Tums/Rolaids ,
Jalapeño Ritz;
"And this little piggy went to the sandbox"- (foot care kit)- foot
powder; Dr, Scholl's boot inserts; foot lotion; foot file; fresh,
clean socks; toe nail clippers; scrub brush; odor eater balls for
shoes/boots; foot soaks (either include a small bucket or large
Ziploc bags to soak feet it)
"How do you eat your OREOS??!!"- regular Oreos; peanut butter Oreos;
double stuff Oreos; low fat Oreos; chocolate filled Oreos; chocolate
covered Oreos; holiday Oreos
"Muchas Gracias…Nachos Supreme"- Doritos &/or Fritos &/or any corn
tortilla chips; Mexican Velveeta; salsa (wrapped in bubble wrap);
small can of olives (don't forget the can opener); bean dip; nacho
cheese dip; small can of green chilies; jar of jalapenos (wrapped in
bubble wrap); taco seasoning; small paper plates or bowls (so they
can make their nachos); taco sauce (especially easy are those
condiment packets from Taco Bell); You could also send the sauces
from the various Mexican dinner kits (they also have tortilla's in
those dinner kits that are sealed so they would probably get there
without molding or drying out); Taco Bell Nacho Supreme kit
"Sweet Tooth"- Nerds; Gummy Bears; Laffy Taffy; Bubble Gum; Tootsie
Rolls; Lolli pops; (any candy that won't melt)
"Pamper Party" (for females)- Feminine hygiene products;
shampoo/conditioner; hair barrettes and scrunchies (same color as
their hair); facial scrub &/or soap; facial mask; lotion; shower gel;
razors; facial moisturizer; tweezers; nail care kit; toner; special
facial products (alpha hydroxy; eye cream; etc);
"Congrats on your promotion"- congratulation party favors; all your
loved ones favorites snacks; sparkled cider (wrapped in bubble wrap
of course); etc.
"For the Fisherman"- Goldfish crackers; tuna pouches; canned smoked
salmon; cans of sardines; gummy worms; Go Fish card game; Field &
Stream magazine; electronic fishing rod game; Sponge Bob Square Pants
stuffed toy; fishing game toy (made by several different toy
companies. Has a small fishing pole with a magnet on the end. Fish
have magnets on their mouths);
"Say CHEEEESE!"- disposable cameras; cheese dip; Doritos; Cheetos;
Cheese nips; Better Cheddars; Velveeta;
"Kick Back & Relax"- Dominoes; playing cards; magazines; books; music
cd's; crossword puzzles; jigsaw puzzles; word searches; hand held
electronic games; squirt guns; water balloons; bubbles; hacky sacks;
Nerf balls; board games (Axis & Allies, Clue, Trivial Pursuit, etc);
"Christmas in July"- wrap everything in Christmas wrapping paper;
peppermint flavored hard candies;
"Italian Stallion"- Italian cheese Ghardetto's; Pizza-licious
Pringles; Pepperoni pizza Combo's; small Boboli pizza bread; pizza
sauce (for dipping Boboli); canned Ravioli, spaghetti, lasagna, etc;
"American Classics"- Pez with dispensers; Cracker Jacks; Lifesavers;
Necco Wafers; Pop Rocks; Nerds; Good & Plenty; Candy Necklaces; Candy
cigarettes
EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
Letters from home.... And lots of them.
Pictures from home.
Send a video from home with everyone sending a message,,there are some vcrs around believe it or not!!
PERSONAL HYGIENE
(Use trial size when available)
A&D Ointment
Avon Bug Guard
Antifungal cream
Foot powder
Chapstick
Blistex
Sunscreen
Razors
Mach III razor refills or other type as requested
Unscented baby wipes
Lotion
Bar soap
Hand sanitizer
Motrin, Tylenol, Excedrin, etc.
Allergy medicine
Face wash (like Clearasil)
Eye drops for dry eyes
Jock itch spray
Throat lozenges
Moleskin (pads for sore feet, Dr. Scholls type)
Dr. Scholls shoe liners
Toothbrushes
Dental floss
Toothpaste (gel)
Mouthwash
Shampoo
Clear deodorant
Waterless soap
Paper toilet seat protectors
Travel size toilet paper
Toilet paper (remove cardboard and flatten roll)
Bandaids
Echinacea
Vitamin C
Cough drops
Neosporin
WORK EQUIPMENT
Waterproof Matches
Thick rubber gloves
Flashlight with red lens
* www.maglite.com -- Maglite mini-light
Duct tape -- Military green, tan, black or gray
Electrical tape - Brown or green
Handyman tool
-- Swiss Army Knife
-- Leatherman tool
-- Mini tools
Tactical rifle sling
CLOTHING
Bandanas
Thermal underwear for winter
Under Armour Shirts -- olive green
* http://www.underarmour.com
* http://www.reddiamondonline.com
* http://www.lapolicegear.com/micu.html - Will ship overseas
* www.rstacticalgear.com
Boot socks - black or green
* http://www.thorlo.com
* blackhawkindustries.com
* http://www.sockcompany.com/stronwesmil.html
White socks (inexpensive ones)
Nomex gloves
* www.specialforces.com
* www.rstacticalgear.com
* www.blackhawkindustries.com
Soffee green PT shorts
Cooling neck ties for summer
* http://www.actiongear.com/cgi-bin/tame.exe/military/level4.tam?xax=8534&M5COPY%2Ectx=26232&M5%2Ectx=26232&M2%5FDESC% 2Ectx=Headwear%20%2D%20Everyday%20Caps%2C%20Rain%20Hats%2C%20Bandanas&level3%2Ectx=results%2Etam
* http://www.baylangroup.com/
Jungle Boots
* http://www.usmc-mccs.org/uniforms/index.htm
Head wrap
* www.rstacticalgear.com -- Spec Ops Gear Recon Wrap
FOOD ITEMS
Chocolate may be sent during winter months only.
Chewing gum (preferably sugar free)
Breath mints
Hard candies
Candy bars
Gummie bears, Skittles, Etc.
Single serving canned fruit
Fruit leathers
Ready to eat soup (such as "Chunky") with a pull tab top
Hormel Chili
Single serving pudding (may want to include plastic spoons)
Mixed nuts
Single serving cracker packs with cheese
Single serving chip and dip packs
Canned nacho cheese/salsa (must be canned or in a plastic bag)
Snack crackers
Pringles or other chips in sturdy containers
Protein bars
Poptarts, cereal bars, "milk & cereal" bars, granola bars
Single serving sweet cereal boxes
Tuna (preferably the tuna in an envelope rather than a can)
Canned smoked salmon
Dried soup mixes
Dehydrated foods
Beef jerky (NO PORK)
Pre-packaged, pre-cooked ground beef (can be used to create "taco kits")
Spice blends
Condiment packets from fast food restaurants
Gatorade powder
Instant hot chocolate
Instant flavored coffee mixes
Presweetened drink mixes (Kool-Aid type)
Russian tea mix (recipes available on internet)
Tea bags
Flavored coffee creamer
ENTERTAINMENT
Crossword puzzle books
Seek-A-Word books
Brain teaser type games
Playing cards
Nerf type footballs or other throwing items
Stress balls (hand-held soft balls)
In summer, cheap hand-held fans - just for fun
Magazines -- NO PORN (Not even something like Maxim)
Books
MISCELLANEOUS
Goggles
* http://www.wileyx.com/cqc.php
International phone cards
* http://www.consumer.att.com/prepaidcard/fy/#
Writing paper
Envelopes
Pens
Journals
Charcoal pencils for rubbings
Small sketch pads
Batteries (especially AA)
Disposable cameras
Padded envelopes to mail camera homes
Ziploc bags (quart and gallon sizes)
Sealable, disposable containers
Magnetic picture frames
Clothesline with small clothespins
Cheap sunglasses
Camping pillows
Bed sheets
Flannel bed sheets for winter
Bed pillow
Thin blankets
Inflatable air mattress (like those used in pools)
Beach balls (can be used as pillows)
Disposable foot/hand warmer packs for winter
Plastic containers with lids
Can opener
Dryer fabric softener sheets
Travel size Febreeze spray
Portable Camping Stove
* www.coleman.com
MSR Dragonfly Backpacking Stove
* http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47792737&parent_category _rn=4500454&vcat=REI_SEARCH
Laundromat sized laundry detergent
Portable shower
* www.coleman.com
* www.cabelas.com
Collapsable water cup
Pinup posters
Stick-up air fresheners
VICES
Chewing tobacco/Copenhagen/Skoal
Cigars/Cigarettes, pref. Marlboros
FEMALE MARINE SPECIAL NEEDS
Sports bras
Astringent pads for face
Manicure kits
Nail files
Nail clippers
Travel size scissors
Cuticle conditioner
Hand creams (unscented if possible)
Moisturizing lotions (unscented if possible)
Olay Moisturinse in-shower body lotion
Q-tips
Cotton balls
Combs, brushes
Hair bands
Bobby pins
Razors for women (and razor blades)
Tampons
Sanitary napkins
Panty liners
Vaseline
Midol
Cranberry pills (for urinary tract infections)
Pyridium (for urinary tract infections)
Feminine wipes
Tweezers
Skin care samples
Deodorant - gel type only
Travel size containers
Facial cleansers
Foot care products
Hair gel
Leave-in hair conditioner
Hot oil hair treatments | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/6/2008 9:59:21 AM | | That list is awesome and thank you!! My question is, can anyone give me a reputable address to send a care package to? I know there are many organizations but I've always held back because I don't know which one is honorable and will ensure my package is actually going to a soldier who'll need it. I guess that leads me to another question. Is there a reputable place I can go and send a specific soldier a care package so I know they're getting exactly what they need? This thread is wonderful and so informative. I know tensions and opinions run high concerning war and a person is not a loser because he/she voices their opinion. Perhaps this thread isn't the place for it but neither is the name calling. You don't have to support the war to have respect for these families who have friends and loved ones fighting and risking their lives for us. Your cruel words will not stop any of this so state your opinion, don't bash anyone who does and respect individual views. God Bless | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/6/2008 11:50:01 AM | Also another little hint when sending cookies over seas...(when you bake them)..as soon as you bake them and let them cool..wrap ini wzx paper,put in plastic zipper bag(large) and place in freezer until tiime to mail them...I also found out from my son when I sent things that if ytou sent chocolate in the summer(heat is 122 degrees0,the chocolate of course melts..but he has seen his buddies lick it off the paper...so it is better to send in winter months...also...make up little boxes...as an example..
a Wash day Box..which would include, a small clothesline,clothes pins,washing powder,softner...etc...\A Day At The Beach would include a beach ball with personal msgs wrote on it so they will see it when blown up..tanning lotion,funky hat...etc...
it doesn't take much to make our guys happy over there at all,,,and little things like nerf balls,,ping pong paddles,,,will go over big...also VERY IMPORTANT!!!!!! Send SILLY STRING!~!~ It helps them to detect bombs....ieds,I believe...we sent some by the case....if you go to walmart,with a written piece of paper explaining what you want to do,,thy usually give you a 25.00 gift certificate....they really love it when you send enough for the platoon(on the goodies of course)..Please if you have any more questions..please do not hesitate to ask!~~~
KJ | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/6/2008 12:25:08 PM | I'm in quite a few military support groups...and it's fun to get creative with stuff to send them. Alot of it depends on where they are deployed, you can check the post office's site I believe to see what can and can't be sent. We send homemade cookies....it helps if you have a food saver so you can seal them, and they love them. Jerky is always a good one, candy (during winter months), if they have a way to warm food we send alot of them ramen noodles, condiments (like the lil packages you get a fast food places....if they have MRE's..alot of them suck and don't have alot of taste to them), popcorn (again if they have a way to heat food), the prepackaged "single" serving stuff (like mac and cheese, things like that).
I also send alot of things to give them a little get away...games, books, puzzle books, small nerf like footballs, baseballs, blank greeting cards (they have loved ones back home..and alot of times can't get ahold of any kind of card to send back for special days), stationary or paper and envelopes and pens/pencils for writing back. I make alot of my own stuff to send, joke books and all. You will no doubt come up with plenty of things. He's your son...you know his likes and dislikes :) Thank you so much for not only your son' s service...but yours too....your whole family serves.
To the ones who have asked. You can no longer send "any soldier" mail. You have to actually have a contact name of someone in a unit to send things too. If you know someone, you can send whatever you want, provided it isn't harmful and meets all the requirements for sending mail to a military address. That's the way it has been for a while...if anything has changed I haven't heard. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/6/2008 10:24:52 PM | Dear OP..
I atually have a group I started back in 2004 I believe..it started out for the Marines...then found a need for ALL MILITARY!!! I will and can get you reputable addies for our troops....My group is USMC PARENTS PLATOON..I do fund raisers...etc...if you or any others would like to write me on here...please do..I will be getting addies for those of you who interested!! I also have threads/websites of where to go to send these brave heroes...
I know soome of these things I am fixing to list to send may seem mundane & childish..but these guys LOVE EM!! One soldier had his wife send him grass seeds!! Another just had a baby giirl and he reieves video tapes I believe about 2 times a month...he shares it with his buddies,,,also nerf balls and frisbees are awesome,,as is candy,,they do sometimes hand them out to the children over there...also comics or just a newspaper from home...go to the dollar store and get all sorts of little "toys"..lol..they will uise them in downtim,e//I will be posting websites on here in a moment if it is allowed,,,if not..pls write me..also there is atually a fatory I believe called goodies...(?) they send dry ice cream and other goodies to our troops..I know because I sent one to my "adopted" soldier over in Afganistan!! he said it was wonderful!! I will get back to you ASAP!!!
Kaci Jo | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/6/2008 10:26:55 PM | | we also have reipes for cake or cookies in a jar..I will pass them on to you also and anything else i an find for you wonderful ladies!!! | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/6/2008 10:31:56 PM | | OKAY>>ENOUGH ALREADY!!! This is NOT THE TIME NOR THE PLAE toBASH anyonme!!! They are over there fighting for your right to express your feelings no matter how right or wrong they may or may not be...I have friends,several of them who have lost their loved ones!!! Please this is about recipes and what to send to our troops...ALL NEGATIVE COMMENTS should just be deleted or ignored ladies & gents!! I for onoe standbehind our troops for A JOB WELL DONE...lets get off this already!! | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/7/2008 2:30:48 AM | Good Morning. I would love to know where to send a care package. I work in a high school with multiple disability kids and 2 days a week in an elementary school so I thought besides what my mom and I put together I'd start a donation drive in the two classrooms. Those cakes in a jar would be an awesome idea for the kids in the high school to make. We have access to a kitchen and use it for life skills lessons. We could even include a class picture. Look forward to hearing from you and thank you!
Amy | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/8/2008 12:30:56 PM | | Target has tons of good and cheap things to send, alot of things in the doller secton. They also have water proof matches, and those space blankets. I sent my little brother a super soaker for his birthday. He loved it | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq.THIS IS LONG
Posted: 7/10/2008 10:11:09 PM | Brokenangel, I especially want to thank you for the Theme food (and other) package ideas. I will start doing more of that.
The next package I am sending is all about Texas and Texan products. Salsa and Chips from Texas is just what I've picked up so far. But there is a gift shop in the mall will all kinds of Texana; so my weekend day is planned...
I usually try to find something a bit out of the ordinary in a can or jar at the grocery store.
I have Snails in a can - so maybe I'll do a "Bug" box theme. I can find lots of bug candy... can anyone think of anything else "buggy"?
I also found a site that sells individual packettes of condiments and other travel size items, including Butt Paste... which is for sweaty spots that turn into a rash (think babies).
He'll get a real kick out of that!
Thanks all for your continued support in this project. And blessings to all who have family members overseas. Thanks to those who so affectionately send packages! | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/11/2008 8:36:08 PM | OK OP..that was JUST A WRONG THING TO SAY..sending them a conscience..I have family over there or there abouts...you need to find another forum..... | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/12/2008 7:18:14 AM | | kaypey... You have restrictions on your email, so, send to me and I will give you a website I've used, about sending packages from Canada. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/12/2008 4:38:59 PM | My friend's husband was in Iraq for 3 years and was always requesting cashews, almonds, and PISTACHIOS! Pistachios were a huge request and they wanted the ones in the shell. He said they could keep a handful in their pocket and suck the salt off the shells then eat the nut. Another request were the hard, crunch, Nature Valley Granola bars. They don't melt and stay quite crisp. Individually packaged biscotti cookies were a huge hit too. You can get them in canisters at Costco, Sam's etc and each cookie is wrapped individually. Again, crisp, hard, crunchy, fruity and nutty with nothing to melt. Good luck! | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/31/2008 4:05:57 AM | Montreal_Guy and brokenangl THANK YOU both so much, what amazing lists you both have. I am learning a lot here. I would have never thought of so many things.
Beauty, if you just want to send packages, my sons unit is leaving in October and in his platoon he said there are lots of guys who will not have anyone to send them things. Let me know if you are interested. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/31/2008 12:15:13 PM | | Smiling, I am interested. Between my mom, me and I work in a high school and elementary school so I plan on doing a supply drive, we should be able to help them out. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/31/2008 12:50:42 PM | My Iraq vets tell me that they now have the equivilant of convenience stores these days. They tell me not to send anything that will melt during the hot weather or anything that won't keep well during transit. (The last thing they need is food poisioning. eek!)
The last of my personal peeps still there get sweet grass & sage from time to time as well as organic loose tobacco. We are Native American & there is no source for these in Iraq. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/31/2008 9:51:11 PM | HI,
i've been sending things to my brother in aghganistan. so some of the things i have sent are as follows: candies (hard so not to melt), choco covered espresso beans, gum, jerky, spices, jiffy pop (the ones you do over fire), shelf stable milk products with those individually packed cereal, power bars, flavored packets for water bottles, trail mix, nuts, rice crispy treats, canned good (soup,chilli,fruit), dry fruit, crackers, packaged cookies, instant rice, coffee, tea, pop tarts, peanut butter, honey, good granola, fancy cup of noodle style stuff (health food store has best choice), tuna salad pre-mixed,
I have found that the best place to get things is costco or a good health food store. i know i'm forgetting things. I also send other things that my brother has found useful like: zip ties, duct tape, zip lock bags, had coffee grinder(on-line camping supply), french press coffee mug, shoe laces, all the toiletries you can think of that would get used daily, bug spray, chap stick, tums, instant heat pads(one time use), sunscreen, lotion, foot powder, shoe insoles, wool socks, cotton shirts, bungee cords, tools, screws & nuts & bolts, dvd's, magazines, suduku puzzles, stationary, pens. i know i'm still forgetting things. I have sent so much stuff.
I also send things that they can pass out to the kids they come by.
your son may not smoke but GOOD cigars are worth trading for something else.
I hope this has been at least a little bit helpful.
Tell your son 'THANK YOU' for the work that he is doing. God bless him. | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 7/31/2008 10:12:30 PM | I just wanted to say...I got tears in my eyes reading this...so many families...mothers/fathers, with loved ones fighting for our freedom...and the littlest things that mean so much! *sigh* Thanks for refreshing my memories!
The lists compiled here are awesome! :) The only thing I could think of to add, would be the dollar store squirt guns...great for some non-serious time, fun, and cooling off! :) | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 8/1/2008 5:11:05 AM | | Beauty, enable women to be able to send you a personal message and soon I will give you some info for him. Thank You so much to you and your mom and anyone else that contributes. My daughter-in-law and I have talked about this and what we would like to do. We aren't telling him anything. He can just be surprised when it happens. I am finding oout about groups in my town and what is going on. I know nothing yet. Thank You | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 8/5/2008 5:39:36 PM |
How about a conscience to stop them killing innocent civilians. [/quote}
you are more than welcome to your opinion, but is it really needed to broadcast it on a thread where you know someone's family is in Iraq? I mean you may not like what they are doing, hell they often dont, but its their job and unlike your job they cant just walk out and quit when they dont like it. So instead of being so rude and classes to demean a woman's son and his job while he puts his life on the line cant you just STFU and take the opinion elsewhere?
you know he joined up and goes over under the pretense that he is protecting american and its freedoms and its rights. rights that give a s s holes like you the freedom to say stupid s h i t like that. maybe he should just stop fighting so you'll learn to shut up | |
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| What to send to Service Personnel in Iraq
Posted: 8/5/2008 6:29:04 PM | | Talked with many soldiers who have been in Iraq these are some of the things they told me they would like: #1. BABY WIPES, bar soap, TYLENOL,DEORDORANT,shampoo.,conditioner,toothbrush,toothpaste,advil,lip balm,vitamins,antacids,sunscreen,small packs tissues,Bandaids,lighters, batteries,pens,envelopes,stamps,writting paper,socks,inner soles,bug spray, minature flashlights #2. gum, hard candy, breathe mints,dried fruit and nuts,cereal bars,skittles,lifesavers,peanut butter crackers,cheese crackers,go to a $1 store they have many of the movie sized candies,good and plenty,red hots,ect, | |
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