Military Family - Afghanistan?

**ml2620** · 04-09-2009, 08:41 AM

Is anyone a member of a military family with a loved one deployed in Afghanistan?

I learned last night that my old college boyfriend, now just an old friend, is being deployed to Afghanistan. We'd like to send him care packages on a regular basis and keep the prices down. Any suggestions or advice for family and friends of those members of the service stationed in Afghanistan?

Also, he is a doctor so I'm thinking not just in terms of him, but his patients as well.

What sort of questions should I ask him to get these care packages up and running?

**edsalld1** · 04-09-2009, 03:06 PM

Your cheapest way to mail is to get the APO box at the post office. The box is free and is costs $11.95 to mail no matter how full or heavy it is. It is still very cold in Afghanistan so warm hats, blankets are very welcome.
Dee Edsall
Platoon Mom, AdoptaPlatoon

**ml2620** · 04-09-2009, 04:45 PM

Dee, Wow how funny, I was a member of Adopt a Platoon 2001-2004. I had 4 penpals during that time, 2 of whom I still keep up with. I was thinking I had to check back in over there and see what they recommended. Thanks for the advice, and for all the work you do for Adopt A Platoon!

**wanderlusting** · 04-11-2009, 06:54 PM

That's wonderful! I send boxes through www.victoryboxes every now and then. Dh has been on a few deployments as well so I like to think I've got it down pretty good

For him:

-antibacterial wipes (for skin)
-beef jerky
-hot sauce
-powder mix drink like Crystal lite, Gatorade, etc
-crossword puzzles, magazines, word finds

For the humanitarian missions:

-children's books
-coloring books
-crayons, markers, pens
-notebook paper
-jackets
-shoes (popular request)
-healthy snacks (no beef or pork products)
-beanie babies
-toys
-candy

I agree with Dee. Get a military flat rate box- it's cheaper and bigger than regular flat rate boxes. You can get them delivered to your house for free if you order it through www.usps.com

**jamie79** · 04-12-2009, 10:23 AM

Dont forget lotion. They need to take care of their feet and they can get awfully dry and cracked so lots of lotion. Also if you want to help some of the female soldiers they can always use feminine products