"DU soldier" adopters, please check in here

I wanted to start this thread for those of you who have been sending things to "our guys"..

Just share what you would like.

Please leave full names out though.. First names are ok, and if you have pictures or snippets of letters you would like to share, please do :)

I want to copy this thread and give it to Jimmy's parents so they can see how much their son and his friends are appreciated..

If you would put your city/state in the subject line, it might be interesting to see how widespread the adopters actually are..

This is not a request for censorship, but if others have bad things to say about the soldiers, this is NOT the thread for it , please :)

My "adoptee" is CK, who I haven't heard from personally yet, but I sent some pre-stamped envelopes for him to write. I am *thrilled* to have the chance to do this and from what I've heard in other threads, these guys are a great bunch and deserve better than the shabby treatment they're getting.

The beanie baby story Skittles shared was touching. These guys are a class act.

Oh, and my mom wants to adopt someone too. I told her for now she can contribute to this current group who shares the goodies when they come and she agreed.

had no stamp - it was free, handled by the military. And you can't send pre-stamped to another country.

My Guy is TG. He did write back and it was a really sweet letter. He sent us a gift with his letter also which we really enjoyed.

By the way they don't need stamps to send mail back, I'm not sure about packages but letters are free.

TG. Would love to see his picture if anybody has it and know what the guys need out there.

I'd also like to know if there are any guys who have in any way been overlooked.

How about adopting some Iraqi children who have been maimed and injured by your beloved soldiers.

Or how about care packages for the Iraqi people who have lost there fathers, sons, daughters, and mothers.

Where is your concern for those people?

SoCalDem--sorry to invade your thread with my thoughts, but if you wish to have only opinions you want to hear, consider having folks e-mail you, in the General Discussion forum, open and uncensored opinion should be the call of the day.

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No one at DU wishes any harm upon ANY Iraqi.. This thread is about how DUers are sending things to the young soldiers,who did NOT ask to go there, and who want this to end as soon as possible..

Our helping THEM , soes not mean that we regard the innocent Iraqis any less..

If there was a way to send something directly to an Iraqi family, I am sure we would have as many volunteers.. Maybe that could be YOUR research project.. I am sure if you had a valid address and name of a family in need there, you would have an outpouring of offers..

Most of us are probably wary of snding money to the "organizations" for fear that our help will not reach the intended destination ..

As I said in the original post, THIS thread is about sharing thoughts about the packages sent to my friend's son and his friends, NOT about the overall injustice of it all..:(

NONE of these guys WANT to be there.. They were SENT there by our government, and are honoring their commitment, and that's IT..

To commit general atrocities on Iraqis?

I have seen pictures of maimed children. I have also seen pictures of troops stomping the faces of Iraqi men in the ground in front of there families.

The troops may be under orders to be there, but there conduct while they have been in Iraq leaves alot to be desired.

Maybe YOU should look into sending things to the Iraqi people since you already have a great list of donors.

...to specifically kill iraqi civilians?

You want to talk general atrocities? How about Saddam's general atrocities. Oh I'm sorry, I forgot, those don't amtter but the rare American atrocities do.

Now I understand why freepers call us Saddam lovers.

"Now I understand why freepers call us Saddam lovers."

uh, because they're insane?

What the hell does Saddam have to do with this?

I thought the point was INNOCENT IRAQI CIVILIANS.

Not Saddam "Ooo, Scary" Hussein.

I have sent four boxes of beanie babies to Iraq. My soldier told me they helped clean up an elementary school - he was swarmed by children when he handed out the first toy. In his letter to me, he mentioned it three times how much fun it was handing out those toys.

He did not kill a few, a few days later, or earlier for that matter.

What a courageous force we have.

SoCalDem was going to print out this thread to give to Jimmy's parents, so they would know how much we've enjoyed our care package project. Now, she may be having second thoughts, thanks to you.

You know, you could have started your own thread to criticize the care packages, but NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, you had to include it here, didn't you. Because after all, it's all about you, isn't it? Sleep well.

I'd like to wish you a good day, but I'm afraid I'd choke on it.

This is a place for opinion, I have one on THIS topic. If SoCalDem wanted a quiet place to praise the troops despite there actions e-mail would have been a better choice, or perhaps free republic?

I will say it AGAIN... We do not wish any harm to the Iraqis.. The guys who were SENT there are trying to stay ALIVE.. I am SURE they are not out killing people for the fun of it ...

Bad stuff happens in a war.. ON BOTH SIDES.. Whatever happens, they will wear the scars for their whole lives...external AND internal..

Should we just turn our backs on them because they honored their military commitment?? Didn't we all learn that lesson THIRTY FIVE years ago??

And, just in case you are interested, I AM trying to contact my Iraqi friend who is IN Iraq.. If he can get us the names of some Iraqi families to help, I will be posting about that as well..

I expect you to be the first responder for an address :)

I will be the first in line for that, and will even help to organize if necessary.

I never said anyone here wished harm on the Iraqis. I am saying that they seem indifferent.

I do not buy the argument that troops are simply mindless automotons under orders to kill women and children, and civilian men, because that is what is happening daily there.

I have never supported the troops, I find illogical to support the instrument of war, and oppose the war.

The lesson that SHOULD have been learnt in Vietnam was that with enough public outcry and outrage people can make a difference. With your desire to not support the war--maybe you do--and support the troops at the sime time gives legitimacy and support to that war. It is mixed message that only serves to bolster the administrations effort to colonize Iraq.

If people stood up for there convictions maybe we would all get what we want, which is the troops out of Iraq, and the Iraqi people free to control there destiny.

Therefore, I will not support the troops ever. I will however be the first to help an Iraqi family.

So you don't support minority 18 year olds who don't make policy? Who carry out orders?

Please don't give me that "they are ordered to kill inocents" bullshit.

Are soldiers carry out their missions, they are not ordered to "cleanse" out and execute innocent civilians. If civilians die, I really don't think majority of soldiers are ordered to specifically kill civilians.

I am. By the way, I have never hooked up with anyone to get addresses. Do you have some? I would like to help. I had a
nephew in Bosnia-Kosovo and if someone had done this for him,
I would come over and mow your yard.

Peace.

You're assuming we don't contribute elsewhere.

We do, but it's really none of your business.

I am just asking that you troop supporting folk also consider the Iraqi people, which does not EVER seem to be done on this support the troop threads on DU.

It would thrill me to no end to do this! However, I will not enforce a sanction or embargo against the soldiers there. Only they know their hearts and who is to say how a person is or isn't changed. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness result in the most profound changes.

And in fact that is indicative of my whole point, that no one really cares enough, hence there has been no organized concerted efort here to help the Iraqis.

People in America, and on DU fail to give two shits about the Iraqi people, but clamor for a very poor dishonorable military force.

Are YOU willing to figure it out for us since you care so much? I will do what I can to help.

I am physcially not up to this challenge atm just coming off a brain MRI and trying to get some of this stuff figured out healthwise. BUT I would love to support you or whoever has the fortitude and brains to get this info out, so we can send stuff the these people!

EDIT: I am physically ill because of all the killing throughout this world and not just the Iraqi people. Your generalizations are so very hurtful. I want to be empowered not shamed. I just want the info to do what my heart says do and my body isn't willing atm. Please don't be one of the ones Wallace you are pointing fingers at and help to provide this info. :hug:

I would suggest putting William on ignore, and talking to SoCalDem about cooridinating some sort of program between the troops in Iraq and the children in Iraq. I know someone else sent some Beanie Babies to the soldiers, and they gave them to a bunch of kids at an Iraqi elementary school.

That seemed very uplifting to me.

if this 'william' is put on ignore, his posts will vanish and the thread can be salvaged from his idiotic, "if you're not saving EVERYONE and if you aren't CONDEMNING all military personnel, you're a freep."

feh! you are ignored

know what you mean. Caring about out kids doesn't cancel out caring
for Iraq. Lordy, I would love to spend a year of my life where there
wasn't a war.

That said, what can I do to help the boys and girls and the Iraqis?

why don't you start a drive. I will contribute. This woman is connected because she knows someone. I was connected to Bosnia
because of my nephew. It sort of telescopes reality for people
when they have their own blood on the line. It doesn't mean
you forget anyone one else. I pray for the Iraqi people every
night.

I also pray for our kids. Last time I looked, no private ever
changed policy. Hell, even a majority of us voting for Gore
didn't change what happened.

Either put up some good works or let her have her thread. SHe
asked for specific information and if you don't have any, bye.

If you're so concerned about the Iraqi's, why don't you do some RESEARCH and find out the names and addresses of some you can help out. 99% of our soldiers in Iraq didn't want to go there and are being treated terribly by the Bush cabal, we are just doing what we can to send them a few things.



BTW, I have sent two care packages with simple things like soap, shaving cream, toothpaste, and some magazines (Time).

Killing and maiming children is part of there duty? Or has the military force of the USA gone out of control, and unaccountable for the atrocities they inflict?

I believe in the latter, so I do not support the troops, the mission is immoral, and the behavior is reprehensible. I do not feel compelled to support men who would kill women and children indiscriminately.

I do feel it is more necessary to support those whom we have enslaved, the Iraqi people. I would hope more at DU feel that way as well.

I tell you what, since you aren't doing anything to really help Iraq.... except sit around and accuse everyone over there of being baby killers.... we can let you know where the soldiers will be arriving when they return home.

You can spit on them. They'll procede to kick your ass. We'll sit back with popcorn and watch.

It will be fun.

Those men follow orders. Period. And they aren't running around shooting children, that's hogwash. You could actually make a pretty good case for the pilots who drop bombs, but you don't have any idea what a typical grunt in the field does.

Could that be the reason?

You want a support the Iraqi people thread, START ONE.

BTW, precisely what are you doing, besides whining, to support them?

Tell me in a different thread.

This thread is not about the suffering of the Iraqi people, something we ALL decry. You are a troublemaker and if you really want to help those civilians affected by the war, then do it instead of coming here and breaking our balls. You're all talk, no action.
Besides, I seem to recall that Iraq will soon be receiving $87 billion American dollars to help in the rebuilding of their country. I think that should cover any needs they have. Our soldiers need stuff NOW so that they can survive while they are over there. Why would you begrudge them that? They are ORDERED to be there,and while they are, we as fellow Americans have chosen to support them. If you don't care to, then don't, but don't come here and give the rest of us a rash of shit about it.

Edited to add: This forum's ignore function is great. You can't see the offensive idiot's name at all anymore. :thumbsup:

If someone knows who or how, please PM me! I will not send anything where any of this cabal or their puppets can get or keep it! I just don't know how you can do that or if it's even possible?

He may be getting quite a bit of stuff by now in that case, perhaps we should PM each other so that we are sending him different things.

eom

what to send :)

I have only found two of the older threads and don't remember if that was covered in them

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=235204
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=276771

Also if you go to google and type in
soldiers free phone cards, there are several organizations who offer them :)

I want to support these folks as well. How do I get a name and address?

Although she will likely PM you once she sees your post...

:)

Purex anti-bacterial handwash
Toothpaste, toothbrush, mint floss picks
Shaving cream and razors
Deodorant
Visine
Shoe pads
Miniature packets of Pepto Bismol and Motrin
Snacks galore, ready-made tuna meal, mac and cheese
Magazines young guys will like
Toilet paper
A plastic robot that blows bubbles. Really cool bubbles.

I keep on reading about how filthy it is over there and how bad the shower and toilet facilities are. I don't know what the enivironment is like for these soldiers, but next time around I will send Baby Wipes and some of those pre-soaped dish wipes.

Jump

but I understand the individually wrapped ones are more helpful then what I sent. Next time I'll send those also.

I sent a package in late September to RM. I haven't heard back yet; but I don't have any idea how long it takes a package to get there.

Sports Illustrated
Rolling Stone Magazine
White Socks
Batteries
Paperbacks
Razors
Toothbrush
Toothpate
Deodorant
Hard Candy
Cookies
Powder
Wet Wipes
Gatorade Energy Drink
And some other stuff

Lucy

to get there.

I've sent packages to each of the first five guys, and a second package to CK and MB. I'm in the process of getting second packages together for Jimmy, DW, and JM. I've heard from all of them except JM.

They seem like such nice young men. Very young men! MB sent some pictures and an Iraqi $5 dinar bill (with Saddam face). My kids took it to school to show their classes.

Their responses are interesting. MB is very gung-ho, kick ass and take names, very God Bless America. The rest are more subdued but are trying to remain optimistic.

I write encouraging things to them - I think they need to hear this in order to remain sane. I like for them to know that we appreciate their service and we have not forgotten about them. I tell them that we are praying for their safe return.

In my packages, I send mostly food. Tuna, salmon, sardines, jerky, crackers, snacks like Doritos, and lots of candy, gum, etc. Hot sauce is always good, too, as are seasonings like Mrs. Dash. I also include powdered drink mix, like KoolAid or Crystal Light. MB asked me to send him some creatine (body building pills), so I did.

I put reading materials in each package, like paperback mystery novels, sports or NASCAR magazines, crossword puzzles, and the like. I stay away from anything with too much skin, I understand that is not permitted in Muslim countries.

I include some toiletries, especially travel size packages of toilet paper, and baby wipes too! I send mostly trial size hygiene supplies, in case they have to hurry up and move out - they may not be able to lug around big bottles of shampoo, etc.

Telephone calling cards are also good. I try to include one goofy toy in each package - something small like a nerf football, a travel-sized etch-a-sketch, deck of UNO cards, Silly Putty, and so on. Seems like they might enjoy something silly, and if they can't really use it, maybe they can give it to the Iraqi kids (like the Beanie Babies).

They seem to really appreciate getting packages from us. With all of the many people here participating, they must be swamped with goodies!

edited to add my locale.

In addition to the toiletries & calling cards I've been sending:

tuna fish (in the envelope)
crackers
torengos
pringles
peanut butter (squeeze tube)
pudding (squeeze tube)
instant soup mix
granola bars
fruit cups
tastykakes (a Philly fave)
instant oatmeal
jerky
kool aid

I believe they requested more tuna.

are so easy to slip into the care packages, and very lightweight. Does anyone know if unopened mayo can survive the trip to the desert? I know it won't last long once it's opened, but so long as it's unopened, will it stay edible until it gets to our guys?

Peanut butter squeeze tubes are also very good, and so are the fruit cups. Too bad water is so heavy - I think they need that the most.

but I didn't want to take the chance because of the heat. At least now you can get flavored tuna (hickory smoked, lemon & pepper etc.) but it's still so dry. x(

I mailed four aluminum things of them. :puke:

I've sent 3 packages so far, going to the grocery store tonight to get a 3rd ready to go tomorrow. I've sent 2 packages to Davias W., and one to Robert M. Haven't heard back on the last 2 packages yet, but figure it might be any day now. Heard back in late August after first package from Davias. He sent a letter with a Saddam note in it.

I pack pretty much the same stuff as you do bunnyj.

How fun :)

I just use it to refer to the "hick" place where I live. My town in actually named Vandergrift - about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh. Definitely in the boonies.

to all of the other adopters.:hi:

I sent off another package to Mike B. about ten days ago, so I won't hear anything from him for a little while yet. Has anyone else noticed the recent reports of troop deaths/injuries in the Kirkuk area, where "our" soldiers are? They are very worrying.:scared:

Mike didn't really give me a list of what they want or need, so this last time I pretty much just sent what I thought they'd like:

Laundry detergent tablets
Athletes' foot spray
Foot powder
Jolly Rancher hard candy
Cheetos
Pepperidge Farm cheese goldfish
Charmin
Baby wipes
Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
One of the latest fiction thriller books--I can't remember the title or who wrote it, though
Pecan Sandies cookies (which shouldn't melt)
Artificial tears eyedrops
Aftabite stick for insect bites
Extra-moisture lip balm
Fierce Grape flavor Gatorade drink mix powder
Fruit roll-up type snacks
Granola bars
AA & AAA batteries

I think there were a few more items, but I can't remember them. I visited with my stepson last weekend, who is in the Marines, & he was showing me a few of the MREs. Some of them contain Snickers bars or granola bars, & packets of peanut butter, or cheese & crackers. They all have a little packet of condiments which contains small packets of salt, sugar, & instant coffee, a tiny bottle of hot sauce, damp-resistant matches, & sometimes a packet of flavored drink mix powder. The toilet paper that comes with the MREs is terrible; thin, rough, & pretty much useless. So "real" TP is always appreciated!

Edited for typo & to add a few things

I've been looking all over for those?

They sell only one brand of the tablets. I almost didn't see them, as they were vastly outnumbered by all the brands of loose powder detergent. I think it was the Wisk brand of tablets.

I'm sending goodies to RMc and DZ, which include:

Gatorade
Chex mix
Gum
Quaker Oats bars
Puffs
Slim Jims
Deordorant
Floss
Soap
Rice Krispie treats
Toothpaste & brush
Fig Newtons
Maxim
FHM

I will keep your send info in mind and will try to ship this week! Shall I take on RMc as well? Will be happy to do that!

I was kind of stumped on what to send -- I am hoping to get some indication of what they liked/didn't like so I could better take care of their needs with future packages.

I sent them both the same first package (the magazines were different). When you send your package(s), just drop me a PM and let me know what was in it, then when I send mine next, I'll do the same for you. That way they can get them a nice variety of things. :)

Thanks :D :hug: And hopefully, they will share their extras with other soldiers!!

when I sent my stuff. I picked a lot of things that were in individual packages so they could be distributed to buddies if they felt so inclined. I have a feeling that the Maxim magazine will find it's way to a LOT of soldiers' hands! ;)

I'm getting some great ideas for future boxes from the other posts!

Jimmy's aunt (I think she's his aunt) sent a huge box of homemade cookies recently for the whole gang :)

When people live in such close proximity, they DO share..:)

Howdy , It has been an honor to support our soldiers .
I started this endevour not knowing the person recieving
care packages from me . Now I have a new friend from
California that someday I hope to meet .

I now know a small hint of what it must be like
to have a loved one over there . The prayers ,
the worry . Here's to Peace may it find us again .

All My Best ,
Trish

The letter I got from Davias said he was from NY - I assume NYC though he was originally from Jamaica. He was in to baseball and football and his favorite teams were naturally the Yankees and Giants - well at least one of his teams is doing good. :)

Can I send baked goods to our Guys?

Whatever is sent, MUST be able to travel well...and bear in mind the extreme heat :)..

Sometimes it can take 2 weeks to even get there..:)

edit: check your pm.. I sent you the list of names :)

willing to do my bit...

info please?

but there are delays in shipping so consider shelf life. Also the package will get very hot so don't send anything that will melt.

send info/instructions etc

thanks :)

They need gifts of food and presents.

:)

UpState NY here!

We're getting ready to send out another package. Hope I can make it a bit "Thanksgivingy".

I haven't heard anything. (that's OK) Wish I knew what else they would really like to have, we're just guessing.

Great Idea ..Okay I'll go shopping for it
tomorrow . Hopefully it'll get there in time .

I guess it'll be canned turkey, gravy in a jar, instant mashed potatoes, preseasoned stuffing that needs just hot water, cranberry sauce, canned veggies, apple sauce and shrink-wrapped pumpkin pie.

It saddens me that they won't be around a table with their families on that day but I can try at least to make it feel authentic.

I have a benefactor who would like to help.. I do not want to be a conduit for it, but would like to get you in contact with each other :)

Brooklyn was part of New York City! :)

:)

Details here

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=563310

I'd like to "adopt" a soldier. My father-in-law served in Korea, and I feel it would be in some way an honor to him if our family could support somone in the service of our country. The only members of the armed services I know are not serving in Iraq (with the exception of the significant other of a co-worker, whose Guard unit was called up in February and isn't expected to return until well into 2004). Thank you.

if you have any names from your co-worker, we can always add to our current list.. There are several people on DU who are sending..

The only real no-no's are skin magazines and overtly political stuff :)

Of course when Time magazine is hitting on *, it's not "our" fault , is it??? :evilgrin:

At least I think so. If it’s not I’ll send a six pack for the holidays.

Are we allowed to send NA beer and yeast? Who knows what they would do with it?

BIG GIANT NO-NOs. I SENT A HUNDRED BEANIE BABIES BUT GAVE THE PIGLETS TO A COWORKER. :)

I'd like to help.

Sent two packages to DZ in late summer and waiting to hear from him. Getting ready to sent another package this week.

:)

and triplicates of packages being sent. Can we expand the list to include other soldiers since we have so many wanting to participate?

Thanks!! :loveya:

I sent a package to DZ last week, priority mail. I don't know how long it will take for him to get it.

As someone else said, I hope to hear from him to get an idea of exactly what they want/need.

I agree that it would be great if we could expand the list. It sounds like these guys are getting lots of attention and I'm sure there are other folks who are not getting nearly as much stuff and could use some care packages.

send me the names of some of his unit, and of course we can send stuff to him as well. I am sure that they can never get too many packages from home..

another friend has a son in Afghanistan, and hopefully she can get some additional names..

some folks have asked for a comprehensive list of stuff that they could/should send..

I always try to leave it up to the imagination of the sender, but we have some new ones on board who need help..

I will list what I know people have sent or what I have sent...please add to it, so they can copy and save..:)


white socks
3A & 2A batteries
"canister" snacks
tuna& salmon..they come in pouches now
canned white meat chicken
sardines
car magazines
paperback books
Time Newsweek
A complete local newspaper
puzzle books
peanut butter in squeeze tubes
pudding in squeeze tubes
crispy cookies (NO CHOCOLATE that can MELT)
hard candy
multi vitamins
neosporin
the jock itch stuff
baby wipes
deodorant
disposable razors
SOAP
washcloths
Wisk laundry tabs.. I package them 4 or 5 inside a large ziploc
empty , new ziploc bags
pads of paper
envelopes
phone cards.. (Google...soldiers free phone cards) lots offer free to them
altoid mints & gum
pop top canned fruit
tobacco products..(even if they do not smoke, they can trade them)
small toys for the local children...NO CRAYONS colored pencils are ok
...

you get the idea.. please add your own ideas


We have all asked them to send a list of what they want, and most, if not all, have declined and instead said ...ANYTHING sent is appreciated.. I think they are afraid of being pushy and putting people out, by looking for specific things..

Thanks , you all :):):):loveya:

Sagatious8, Mixxster, HellHathNoFury and myself. I am asking about a rotation basis on sending out packages or something or I'm afraid they will be utterly overwhelmed :wow:

Also, Mc has two supporters: HellHathNoFury and myself.

Hopefully, we will each be pming each other in regards to what we are sending and if either soldier offers any suggestions as to future inclusions.

Again, SoCalDem.. thanks! :loveya: And can't wait to begin the Iraq citizens packages :bounce:

Afghanistan would be great and I was wondering today if there would be some way to get to Palestinian refugees as well?

and they do share with each other..

Since we had so few names and so many interested in sending, it was inevitable that there would be duplication..

When I first started this , I went down the list and alternated, but as the requests poured in, it was impossible to keep track.. There may have been people who asked for a name and then did not get around to sending things, so after a few weeks, I started sending the entire list and let people choose..My mailbox was overflowing.. :eyes:..


It's a good idea to coordinate, so those of you who are sending to the same guys can work out a schedule so they don;t get overwhelmed..:)

I have a DUer who wants to donate money since his schedule is packed.. I am looking for a NYCer or two to put into contact with him.. I do NOT want to be a conduit for money.. When the NYC people get together, they can make private arrangements for the donations..

PM me so I can get you guys together :)..Okay??:)

IMMEDIATELY AFTER SAYING THANKS SAID "I SHARED ALL THE GOODIES WITH MY BUDDIES".

that they could/should send."

There are websites with suggestions, too. Do a search on "soldier care packages" (IIRC). Of course, there are different needs depending on where the soldier is deployed (Is that the right term?). Some guys have no need for wet wipes because they have access to showers, etc. That's why I wish they would be more specific about their needs/wants.

SoCal,

When you get more names, I wonder if we could come up with some kind of system to track who's getting packages. Some people may send things more regularly, some might do it once and done. Sorry to ramble, just thinking off the top of my head.

since March (this was in August), she also said that they did need baby wipes.. They may have access to river water, but I doubt that they want to use it.. I hope by NOW they do have more water available.. But baby wipes can be soothing to hot dusty skin, even out on patrols.. My son used to carry them in his soccer bag whne he played..:)

I guess they always stay "babies".:):)

I and my mom would love to do this for the kids and the Iraqis. We are going shopping tomorrow. :)

:) thanks

SoCalDem, you are the greatest. Thanks to your efforts, countless care packages have been sent to "our guys." I have sent two packages of snacks, drink mix, and toiletries to my soldier and have received one letter from him. He enclosed a 5 Dinar note on the Iraqi Bank! He says Iraq is a hell hole and he cannot wait to get out of there.

to feed like 10 people, if I recall correctly. His list of items to send follows:

Why don't we make a list of thanksgiving dinner items that we could mail and post it in the thread. Have each person volunteer to buy one item and mail enough of it to feed 10 people (I think there are about 7-10 guys in our group). I'll start the list and you fill in anything I've missed and post it in the thread. Here's what I can think of:

powdered mashed potatoes
canned turkey (Hormel has a 100%white meat turkey)
canned ham (allowed?)
canned or powdered gravy
canned candy yams
canned green beans
some preserved form of pumpkin pie (Little Debs has PumpkinDelights)
stuffing mix
canned cranberries

Sagatious8 is vouching for shipping the canned yams...
I'm still thinking of what I would like to volunteer for! :hi:

Shipping packages to DZ and Mc tomorrow with Thanksgiving dinner items included...

As I'm getting ready to ship off today two large packages, I am going to vouch for enough mashed potatoes for 10-20 soldiers.

:hi:

how I can adopt a solider as well? Would love to help out! Last Gulf War I was a pen pal to one and I was a junior in high school. Would like to do a little more this time.

:hi:

I sent you the names

They deserve better, infinitely, than what they're getting. Want to help.