Stuff to send:

We sit here all warm and cozy in the winter or cool and comfy in the summer while our troops are experiencing
extreme hot and cold temperatures.  We cannot imagine the problem with dirt, dust (as fine as talcum powder),
and sand.  While some may actually be housed where there are walls, others remain in tents.   From all reports,
conditions are not very pleasant.  Here are some of the items that would be appreciated:  

A recent comment was that personal hygiene products were nice but snacks are even better.  

Toiletries (hand sanitizer, baby wipes, lip balm, kleenex pocket packets, dental floss, hand and foot lotion, 
     deodorant (unscented), face cleansing pads, Q-tips, soap, shaving cream, toothpaste, and tooth brushes).
Essentials:  Insect repellent and Ziplocks (freezer type preferred) in all sizes but more gallon-size than others.)
Snacks:  Any kind but don't bother with Tootsie Rolls or Combos as they're included in MRE's.  Suggestions 
         include Pop-Tarts, red licorice, rice krispie treats, Doritos, pretzels, Cracker Jack,  M&Ms, nuts, 
         beef jerky (hey, deer hunters!) , fruit rollups, Chex mix, individually wrapped cookies and snack cakes,  
         chewing gum (this also keeps their mouth moist on patrol).  Homemade goodies that will last for the 4 
         week shipping.  Most units have access to a microwave (we shipped our son one) and they love microwave popcorn.
Canned goods:  Tuna, chicken, chili, stew, bean or cheese dip, sardines, salsa, ramen noodles, fruit.
Beverages:  Crystal lite, Gatorade mix, coffee bags, flavored teas, Tang, Kool-Aid (with sugar added), instant 
            hot chocolate.
Clothing:  Socks, underwear, and large handkerchiefs.  Winter gloves and thermal underwear are good seasonal items.
Recreation items:  Games, books, magazines, CDs, DVD movies, taped TV shows and taped sporting events. 
Tobacco products like Skoal and cigars.  The war is mainly long periods of boredom interrupted by short periods of terror.

Okay, now to the items that cannot be sent:  
Nothing flammable.
No alcohol products of any kind.
No pork of any kind - read labels.
No pornography or anything that can be construed as such (Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, racy paperback covers)

It doesn't have to be anything major.  Just pick up an item the next time you're walking through Wal-Mart.

Roberta Liechty