Aunt Nancy USA - Supporting The Troops

Happy New Year 2011! New blog/website combination site

2011-01-04T20:35:00.000-08:00

Hello and Happy New Year!

I have several updates I plan to put out in a group email, but right now I just want to let you know that my email and website are being updated by the friendly folks at Turtlehut who have donated them to me for almost 8 years.

The website will also include a blog so there will be just one place to go for both the blog and the website! www.auntnancyusa.com Yeah!

We are in transition, and right now, I can't receive email (and don't know why). You can leave messages here or better yet, on my Facebook fan page.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! on to Valentines Day packages...

2010-12-27T19:30:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for such great participation this year!

In addition to over 800 Christmas stockings being sent, a couple of hundred packages were mailed. I'm hoping to receive more photos from the troops, and when I do I'll post them here.

It was especially gratifying for me this year as I connected with several Marine families right here near me at Camp Pendleton (San Diego). This was a totally new adventure, and became very personal as I was able to meet them in person.

The Marine wives only asked for some support and cheer for their husbands, but many of you jumped in to make their Christmas a little more enjoyable after I found out how great the need was. Frequent deployments, and several medical issues put a real crunch on their finances and emotions. A simple request to you all and gift cards, toys, tickets to Disneyland, and even decorated Christmas trees were offered. Then I connected with the Camp Pendleton Rotary Club and they provided toys, dinners, and car seats to these young families.

We will continue to follow these Marines, as one family has a newborn who was in 3 different hospitals in one week, and an older child in the hospital with pneumonia. Another has pending surgery for Dad, Mom, and a 5 year old all about the same time.

I'll update here as usual.

Valentines Day is only 6 weeks away, so if you didn't get something out for Christmas or New Years, or even if you did, consider a package to be mailed in the next few weeks.

Stay tuned! And again, THANK YOU! It is my pleasure to be the conduit to our troops.

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Lunch with Korri, a new baby, and 800 stockings!!

2010-12-06T21:57:00.000-08:00

Today I had the rare pleasure of meeting one of our recipients! After finding out "Proud Marine Wife" Korri was living at a base just 10 miles from my home, we made plans to meet for lunch.
Then, another online friend, Rita, who has been supporting the troops through this program of mine, mentioned she would be in my area this week, so, we all met! A triple blind date!
And we were joined by my sister too.

We had a nice Mexican lunch, talked a lot, walked the coast a bit, and showed Korri a little life off the base!

I never know where this project will lead me, but it's always good!

Thanks to all of you who jumped in to help our 3 Marine families.
Good news for the LeTourneau Family: Dustin came home early from Afghanistan, and their new baby boy also arrived early! There's a lot of adjustment going on at their home, and your notes of cheer and support are a very big help.

Here are some photos from today. Oh, and another 100 stockings were pledged! We went OVER the 800 mark! whoo hoo! Now THAT'S a great day!

Rita, Nancy, Korri, Ronee

It's nice to finally getting more connections with our Marines! (Especially since I live near one of the largest -- THE largest? -- Marine base in the country! Camp Pendleton.) Let me know if you can help.

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Holiday summary, and Fundraiser

2010-12-03T20:55:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving over my "Aunt Nancy" emails have slowed down from dozens to just a few a day, and I can get a little more sleep! I am happy to be able to say that this season you all pledged almost 700 Christmas stockings, dozens of goody boxes, and some Hanukkah packages to our troops! Plus a couple hundred troops have been "adopted"! You guys are AWESOME!!!

A couple of last minute requests for support have come in from our troops, so it's not to late to help out.
Email me: Nancy@auntnancyusa.com

This year something new: in addition to the troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, I have a few Marine families I'm getting support for. And, something else for the first time, a fundraiser: Greeting cards purchased online.

The cards are $2.99, including the 44cent postage stamp. You personalize them online, and then they are printed and mailed for you.

100% of the profits go to the troops. Proceeds from the cards allow me to donate free cards for our troops to mail home. It's convenient for them, as all of us, as you can go online from anywhere in the world, customize greeting cards, and then the cards are printed, stamped, and taken to a US post office for you. Whether you are in Iraq or Iowa, Afghanistan or Arkansas!

Some of you have already participated, and I thank you. If anyone else would like to send even one greeting card this way, that would be awesome! Send a card to a friend, family member, a soldier, or whomever you want. You'll make at least three people happy: your recipient, a soldier, and the soldier's card recipient! Of course if you want to send one to a soldier or Marine, I can help you there!

Visit Aunt Nancy Fundraiser
It's fun AND for a good cause!

Thanks for all you do!!!

ps: note that the $2.99 cards include a 44 cent stamp, and are only for destinations within the USA (cards are printed and mailed in the USA). But that includes APO (Army Post Office) and FPO (Marine) addresses as mail to them is actually delivered to a US base and the military ships it from there to Afghanistan or Iraq.

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A few troops still available for Christmas. And Thank Yous from the troops.

2010-11-28T19:25:00.000-08:00

There are still a few un-sponsored troops available for holiday or full-deployment sponsorship. Plus, about 25 more Christmas stockings could be helpful.

If any families, work/Scout/church groups can send some extra Christmas cards out, I have destinations for you. Whether you add just one name to your list, or make up 100 -- they all help.

Lastly, I'm looking for a little holiday cheer for a 3rd Marine family.

Thanks for any help you can give.

And "Thank Yous" are coming in:

Hi Nancy,

I just wanted to touch base with you again the guys have started receiving some care packages in the mail already they really do appreciate them. Well i have to keep it short time to get back to work.

SSG Davis

Another:

Ms. Reinhard, I would like to pass my personal thanks along with the thanks of my
platoon here at FOB Orgun-E Afghanistan for your generosity. It is
great to have people back home who care. Wish you all could have seen
the faces of my soldiers as the boxes came open. It was like watching
kids on Christmas morning. I ensure the items sent were divided up so
all my guys got some delicious treats. Thank you for the wonderful
cards from your class as well. They were beautifully done. Once again
thank you for everything and have a wonderful Christmas.

Very Respectfully,

1LT Andrew M. Krumm

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Jesse Rada & troops - a thank you and photos

2010-11-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

The mail is working really well -- some of our Christmas packages are already arriving!
It was nice to hear that Lester Holt and the "Today Show" were with these troops on Thanksgiving day! I didn't see them though. Did you?

Aunt Nancy,

It was a nice surprise to receive the care packages from the Schindler Family. We received Christmas Hats and Stockings from Ms Schindler, see photo attached.. Thank you and all your supporters for all you do for us.

We would be pleased if you posted our photo that I sent Ms Schindler on your blog.

In September, for a morale booster, we celebrated Mustache month in Honor of Tom Selleck (I'm kidding, in reality, since most of us had just gotten back from R&R, I figure it would be a good camaraderie builder). In the photo attached are all those that participated from our directorate. We have a pretty good team as you can see.

I'm nearing to the end of My tour here(Two more months to go). For some reason or another, it never fails, time seems to slow down as we get closer to re-deploy. I keep busy by assisting and planning trips all over Afghanistan in support of our mission.

For Thanksgiving, we were joined by Lester Holt and the Today show. Thanks to the Today show, morale was high, as families got to see their loved ones on this special day. Our office made it a family event on thanksgiving, as we were able to sit down a have dinner together. Due to everyone busy schedule it's hard for us to sit down together as a group. At the end of the night, I was able to speak with my wife and children and wish them a Thanksgiving.

The team here greatly appreciates the work and effort that you do and the families from all over that you bring together. Your efforts do not go unnoticed or unappreciated.

From the CJ7 ANA Training, We wish you, your family and bloggers a Happy Holiday season and many thanks!

v/r
JMR
Jesus M. Rada
NTM-A/CSTC-A CJ7 ANA Div NCOIC

If you have troops in this unit, Jesse informs me 3 soldiers have now re-deployed and are no longer in Afghanistan:
Frizi A.
Sameka O.
Eliason, A.

Hello Mr. White!

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Address change notice for JSS Loyalty; other troop updates

2010-11-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

JSS Loyalty
The troops I have at JSS Loyalty have received a slight address change.
The original should still work but start using the new one now.

If you have "2nd BSB" then you have the latest address.

If you haven't received an email from me with the info, ask.
I do not post addresses online.

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Marines in G-6 Unit-40115
Most of the Marines in G-6 Unit-40115 are redeploying out of Afghanistan in January. D. Bonney will be there 3 more months. As for the others, do not send any more packages after Christmas unless your Marine confirms he is staying longer. I'll post more info here when I get it, so look back later.

Meanwhile, if you are not sure, send a card or letter asking your Marine. (And let me know what you find out!)

---

The Marines we were sponsoring in the
1/3 Bravo Co 2nd Plt Unit 44025 and
1/3 Alpha Co 3rd Plt Unit 44020
are back at home base now. They might be deploy again as soon as May '11.

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Mailing Instructions

2010-11-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

WHAT TO DO:

Start at the post office and pick up a free LARGE, FLAT RATE, Priority Mail box, and a Customs Declaration form. It's best to get the boxes ahead of time because you can figure out how full to make your stockings & how many will fit. And the post office often runs out this time of year. Your packages can easily cost double the $12.50 to ship if you don't use these boxes discounted for military destinations. "If it fits, it ships"!

Visit your local "dollar store" for the best prices on the classic red and white stockings that are so sentimental to the troops. You can also purchase some winter-theme boxes to make holiday packages for non-Christians.

While many of the troops I have right now are in bare-bones, remote, locations in Afghanistan, make the stockings fun. Save the soap (unless it's got Santa on it!) for regular packages.

Mailing cut-off dates from the US Postal Service based on APO mailing code: Mailing dates They offer later dates than I recommend, especially to Afghanistan. Some of the troops I have are in remote areas, and additional time is necessary. Also, we would like packages to arrive at least a week before Christmas (or whichever holiday you are mailing for.)

Afghanistan: prior to November 30th*. *updated-- some packages are already arriving!
Iraq: first week of December will still probably work. (Priority Mail)

But never hesitate to mail because an item might be late. Certainly for our troops, "better late than never" is most appropriate. Some mail has arrived in two weeks. We can't be sure. Of course you can always send a New Year's package.

If possible, print this form and put it in your stockings, and packages: Info Sheet

Suggestions for stocking fillers:

candy candy candy - especially chocolate and holiday theme (drug stores are good for these) Mini-candy canes are best for shipping.
cookies (NOT homemade - store bought and packaged only) Oreo cookies are favorites!
treats like Twinkies, Hostess cupcakes, Little Debbie
hot chocolate packets
small toys like a micro-machine - one in a stocking is fun
beef jerky
a current sports or fitness magazine
gum, nuts, pretzels, trail mix packages. Twizzlers licorice is another favorite.
tubes of potato chips, cookies
Starbucks single serving Via instant coffee packets
small cans of energy drinks
a greeting card, maybe include your group or family photo, and "Aunt Nancy" note (see below)
fake snow
nice smelling shampoo or body wash (small bottles - in ziploc bags)
a short string of Christmas lights (if you are mailing early enough)
a hand-held electronic game
left-over Halloween candy
if you have funds: iTunes cards and iPod shuffles are high on their wish lists!

A Santa hat, antlers, or other silly cap goes over well.
No batteries -- unless specifically requested by your troop.
("JSS Loyalty" needs AA & AAA size)
Small footballs and play things are nice gifts.
Check back, I'll be adding more suggestions.

Include a note with your name, city (or full address if you would like) email, and maybe even a photo. lf you want a reply, insert a self-addressed return envelope.
Tell them you are sending the holiday cheer through "Aunt Nancy USA" and include that my program is now on Facebook as well as www.auntnancyusa.com

HOW TO MAIL:

Get the boxes ASAP! The post office often runs out this time of year. Grab a large Customs Declaration form while there too.

Unless you are mailing very large quantities, always use USPS Priority Mail for best assurance of delivery. The LARGE FLAT RATE Priority Mail usually saves money. There is a $2.00 discount on the large Flat Rate boxes to Army Post Office (APO) and FPO addresses. ($12.50 instead of $14.50). You should be able to get 2 or 3 filled stockings per box.

You can even buy the flat rate postage online and save! It will cost only $11.95. Print the postage, fill out the customs form, and call the post office. They will come to your home or office and pick up the packages. How cool is that!!!

Keep boxes neat and professional. No stickers or drawings on the outside. If the addresses are not neat and easy to read, especially the RETURN address, it may not be delivered. For security reasons the military is very fussy about this.
Use clear tape if possible, wrapping all edges of the boxes. They have a long way to go and are not handled gently. All liquids must be in ziploc style bags.

Customs Declaration forms are required, and are available at the post office along with the free Priority Mail boxes. In the area marked In case of non-delivery put re-direct to "Chaplain" and the same address as your soldier. (Unless I gave you another name.)

Your packages are actually being mailed to a domestic military base, so you are not paying to ship overseas. The country your soldier is in does not matter. The military will fly the packages to your soldiers' units.

Note: No homemade baked goods are allowed in packages, for the safety of our troops.
Only after you have developed a relationship with a soldier you personally adopt are home made cookies or goodies permissible.

Here are some ideas of what to write on a note in the Christmas stockings:

Hello and Merry Christmas from _____________________
We received your unit through "Aunt Nancy USA"
www.auntnancyusa.com
We hope this gift sheds a little sunshine on your day,... brings a smile to your face, (something like that) or,
Sending these goodies in case Santa cannot get clearance to fly over.
We are thinking of you and the sacrifices you are making for our country.
A reply is not necessary, but we would like to know this package was received,
and you can let us know of any special requests we might be able to help you with.
Your name,
Group name
address
and email (if you want them to email -- which is more likely than a returned note)

If you want a reply, in each stocking include:

a self-addressed reply envelope (no stamps required)
a reply card, index card-size paper with something like this:
Soldier's name ________________________
APO address _________________________
[ ] Yes, I received your package
Items I could use are ___________________
My email address is (optional) ____________________

Attach it to your note or envelope.

Female stockings: If you would like to make a Christmas stocking specially for a female, tie a big pink ribbon on it and a label "FEMALE". All the stockings will be passed out randomly,

One further note for holiday packages:
On your box, and Customs Declaration form, please include
"Aunt Nancy USA "
in your return address.
That way the chaplains or other troops will know your package is part of our Christmas project.
This isn't absolutely required, but can be helpful to the Chaplains.
Example:

Jane Doe

Aunt Nancy USA

1234 Main St

New York, USA

Fundraiser:

I'm hosting a fundraiser for cards for the troops. You can help by visiting my website:
www.sendoutcards.com/storefront/simcocards and creating a greeting card for $2.99 (includes 44 cents postage!) Have the card mailed to a soldier or a friend, whomever you choose.
From your computer you can personalize cards, and then the cards are printed and mailed for you!
ALL profits go to "Aunt Nancy USA" for free cards for the troops. Thanks!

PLEASE DO NOT send stockings directly to Andrew May without checking in with me. I have certain numbers requested for a variety of units and have to keep track of how many packages are going to each one. The stockings are sent to one person collecting them, and will be passed out at Christmas services.

There is just me and my laptop here, no large organization. I try to answer every email within a day or two, but it gets difficult in November! :)

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Christmas stockings now - 200 new troops!

2010-11-17T12:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for wanting to help send some cheer to our troops for the holidays!!! As is typical this time of year, I am swamped with requests. I will do my best to reply to everyone within a day or two for as long as I can. Yesterday I received 200 new troop names and I'd like to have them all receive something!

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS:

I can promise a reply for Christmas stockings for these men and women.
If you can pledge 1, 3, or 100, email me with the approximate number you can do and I'll reply with a chaplain or other point of contact who will collect them and distribute them over Christmas.
Suggested date for mailings, Priority Mail: Iraq, by December 1st, but better is Thanksgiving Weekend.

(Good news: some stockings have already began to arrive!)

And take photos! I'd love to post pictures of stockings you put together for our troops!

Oh, if you want to send cards and letters for the troops, I can still do that. Speaking of cards:

FUND RAISER - Greeting Cards for Our Troops to use

My first fund raiser: I provide free cards for our troops, by setting up online accounts for them to access from anywhere in the world, personalize their greeting cards, and then, the cards are printed and mailed in/from the USA and delivered by the US Postal Service to the homes of their family and friends.

Your help would allow me to offer more to the troops. For every card you purchase for yourself I can offer another free card to one of our men and women in service. 100% of profits are returned to the troops' cards.

So, check out Aunt Nancy USA Cards. (It's really a pretty cool, and fun, system!) You can buy cards and send to whomever you would like, and, know you're offering the same opportunity for our troops. Individual cards cost $2.99, and that includes the postage!

ADOPTING A SOLDIER OR MARINE:

Marine families: I have 3 Marine families at a base in California who are struggling to pull together a little Christmas. Some need shoes for the kids, clothes, and some small toys might be nice. And lots of Christmas cards from all of us?
While I do have some individual troops available for "adoption" that is generally only for their full deployment (generally a 4 to 10 month commitment on your part.) If you only want to send something for the holidays, please consider volunteering to send Christmas stockings.

IMPORTANT:

Remember to pick up the LARGE, Flat Rate, Priority Mail box free at the post office ASAP. They often run out this time of year. It will help you know how much will fit. Generally, 3 filled stockings per large box.
Also pick up the Customs Declaration form ahead of time so you can list contents before sealing your package.
The large box will cost $12.50 regardless of how heavy your gifts are. "If it fits, it ships!" Without this particular box you could end up paying double the shipping costs.

More details and suggestions are on my posting below dated 11-9-10.

THANKS AGAIN!

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Marine's wife asks for support

2010-11-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

Updated 11/19/10: A couple of corrections and updates. Shane is on his way to recovery enough that the Marines put him back to work, but it didn't last long, he's back home again.
I also received two other families' requests though. Since these are US destination (Camp Pendleton, San Diego, California) mail time is shorter than overseas. Priority Mail can arrive in less than a week.

11/11/10
"A Proud Marine Wife" wrote me about her husband and is hoping we all can give him some support. He has served 4 combat tours, was injured and had multiple surgeries. She quit her job to take care of him (and their 2 little girls).

She would like some cards to show him he is valued by more than just his family. It's hard to believe our troops don't know how special they are to us and how much we appreciate them!

She asked for cards, but I'm also looking for help to get his family some extra presents for Christmas.

Hi! My name is Korri and I was wondering if I could nominate my husband to be adopted? I do not know if he is eligible or not. He has been in the Marines for almost 13 years and has done 8 deployments and has served 4 combat tours but after being injured he is home now just having completed his 3rd corrective surgery. I just thought I could possibly find an organization that would add him to their list so he could see that he is a hero to more than just me.

He is having a rough time being down with his injury and I could love to be able to put a smile on his face and remind him of the people who are out there who support what he does and what he has sacrificed. After 3 surgeries, 2 steel plates, 14 screws and a bone graph he is finally done and on the way to a full recovery! Now that we have fixed him up physically I need to cheer him up emotionally. He is very stressed out with the holidays coming up for our kids since the last year has taken such a huge toll on us.

If he is not eligible I understand and still want you to know how much we appreciate your dedication to supporting out troops!! Thank you so very much and have a blessed day.

Korri
*Proud Marine Wife*

Of course, since there is no "official" organization here, just me and my laptop, and those of you reading this, her husband "qualifies"! If you can send a card that would be awesome. I have some local 2nd graders sending birthday cards to her "about to turn 5" daughter whom she says is also struggling with daddy's condition.

While this isn't what "Aunt Nancy USA" usually is involved with, it's kind of a nice opportunity for all of us.

Please consider sending a card, and, if you can, also consider sending one via my fundraiser for the troops. By buying, and sending, a card through this website, not only will you send a REAL greeting card to her family, but, 100% of the profits go back into "Aunt Nancy USA" free cards for the troops to use to send greeting cards home to their families.
Check it out here: www.sendoutcards.com/storefront/simcocards

To get their name and address email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com

I found out they are stationed at a Marine base just 10 miles from my home. I plan to pull together a little something for them for the holidays. If you would like to contribute that would be awesome. Mostly though, cards of encouragement and appreciation.

Email me for their address for cards.

Thanks for your support. Maybe we can get a couple other Marines from my neighborhood to send a little holiday cheer to.

This is their family.
Shane & Korri, and daughters:

Christmas mailings 2010

2010-11-09T19:24:00.001-08:00

It's time to mail packages for Christmas arrival!

Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com to request a name to send your Christmas stockings, or other holiday packages to. Please give me an estimate of how many stockings you might be able to send. I do not post troops' names online.

PLEASE DO NOT send stockings directly to Andrew May without checking in with me. I have certain numbers requested for a variety of units and have to keep track of how many packages are going to each one. The stockings are sent to one person collecting them, and will be passed out at Christmas services.

Consider mailing left-over Halloween candy to the troops too. Maybe even put it into Christmas stockings.

Fundraiser:

Veterans Day - November 11th

2010-11-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

Time to show appreciation to our Veterans! -- Our few remaining WWII vets (like my Dad, on the left!) as well as our younger vets.

If you don't know one, I can give you a name and address. (Heck, you can even send them to my Dad, an 86 year old, proud WWII vet!)

Consider sending a card through my fundraiser at
www.sendoutcards.com/storefront/simcocards
For $2.99 you can select and personalize a card online, then we print it for you, put the stamp on it for you, and take it to the post office for you!
ALL profits are returned to "Aunt Nancy USA" for cards the troops can send home.

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Halloween Candy Left Over? Send it to our troops!

2010-10-31T21:48:00.000-07:00

If you have left-over Halloween candy, you can send it to our troops.

Usually I say just email me for a name, but look what I found: dentist offices who will accept your candy, and ship it for you! whoo hoo!
http://www.halloweencandybuyback.com/index.html
And some even BUY it back from you!

If you don't find a dentist near you, then of course, email me and I'll give you a destination!

You help the troops, we save your hips!
Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com and ask for a destination.

Mailing tips and suggestions are below in the Christmas stocking drive posting.
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Time to shop for Christmas stockings!

2010-10-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

It's spooky! It's scary!

UPDATE 10/30: Halloween is HERE, and in 4 short weeks is Thanksgiving, and well, you all know how quickly the holidays sneak up on us. We need to mail in EARLY November this year!

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Therefore, it is important to plan and shop for your Christmas and holiday packages in October! That's only two weeks. Most of our troops are in Afghanistan and it can take six weeks for mail to arrive. Even Priority Mail.

If you want to participate with Christmas stockings for the troops, please get your groups and/or families to start now. Target mailing in the first 2 weeks in November if you want to be sure your packages arrive in time for the chaplains to sort through the boxes and have them ready to distribute.

Of course we'll still be mailing throughout November and hope for less than 4 week delivery.
For Christmas cards too: You want your soldier, sailor, or marine to enjoy the card a few weeks before.

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Andrew May sends his THANKS!

2010-10-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

Here are responses from Andrew May in Afghanistan. His unit is receiving the packages you have been sending! (Mail to him has been taking 4 to 6 weeks to arrive. His return replies also take that long.) He's been working on Thank You notes for everyone, but also mentioned he lost some of the return addresses. So please accept this note of appreciation on his, and his troops, behalf. You guys are wonderful to have jumped in and help these troops!

Dear Nancy,

This is Andrew May I am deeply grateful for all the packages that have been sent to us thru your network. I appreciate everything that you have done and so do the troops. I do have a few people in mind that packages can be sent to so that they can supply their troops with all the stuff that has been sent to me. . . They would greatly appreciate some packages to be able to pass out to their guys. Once again I would like to thank you for the work that you do for us.

With Great Respect
SFC May, Andrew
U.S. Army
Infantry

And from PFC Coombs:

"My platoon and I would like to thank you for your care package! Your support is greatly appreciated. We recieved your package this morning, August 25. We are a small scout unit living far out from any other troops and modern civilization. We live off military rations and water, we have a small generator and share a water well with a village next to us. Your box was the first of this month. We have supply helicopters come twice a week and we pray for mail everytime. Your package put a big smile on everyone's face! The munchies were a good change to our daily dret. (loll). We ask you to pray for us and continue... to support the troops! Feel free to send us boxes or letters whenever you get the chance! THANK YOU!!!
Pfc Coombs, M."

If you would like to send some packages to these troops, please email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Thanks!

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Halloween Candy!!!

2010-09-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

It's time to send out some Halloween candy to the troops!

Mail a box to your soldier now, maybe even add a few little decorations?

Candy can also be sent to our wounded troops in Germany at:

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

ATTN: MCEUL-CH/Chaplains Office,

CMR 402

APO AE 09180

And if you and your kids have left-over candy, you can send that too!

ps: Our Christmas stocking project will begin soon. Because mail to Afghanistan takes longer, we'll want to send packages in early November this year!! Stop your shopping now!

_______________________________

Afghanistan troops needing some care packages

2010-08-08T17:43:00.000-07:00

We have an urgent request for help here. Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com if you can get a package out for Andrew May. He has about 9 soldiers reporting to him and about 50 total with them. The 1st Cavalry unit may end up with about 250 troops at this Camp Blue Devil. But I don't know all the details.

"Tami gave me the address for Andrew today. She is thrilled that you want to send him stuff. He is in worst shape than Scott. They are four hours from any base that has anything. These guys have NOTHING! No food or anything. They are eating MRE's. ICKY! so she rushed to get you his address. They have a whole lot of nothing. Thanks for all of support."

Anything we can get out to them over the next few weeks would be awesome. Cookies (OREOS!), candy, gum, canned goods (with pull-tab lids)..... Unfortunately, mail to Afghanistan can take 4 to 6 weeks.

I suspect we'll need to support them for many months to come.

Stay tuned.

UPDATE Aug 9:
If anyone would rather just donate some cash, the wife of Andrew works with a program to help the military families. I can put you in touch. T

On Mon, Aug 9, 2010 at 8:58 AM, Linda B. wrote:

"I just spoke with Karrie again ... they should be contacting you but she is on her way to Tami's home (Andrew's wife) to share the 'good news' ...

Linda

These families are so very grateful for everyone's help!
I'm also getting requests for Scott who is in Iraq, and will be assigning some of you to him too.

"Scott is Karrie's husband and their condition in Iraq are better than those recently learned about through Karrie and Andrew's wife, Tami. The single most requested item are phone cards so these soldiers can call their loved ones. Here is Scott's address, along with a few other names within their unit near Baghdad. Scott LOVES yogurt-covered pretzels, has a need for white, THICK, mid-calf socks (Size 10), Mach 3 razor blades (I just sent him all of the above this past week) and once in awhile, American history books and Harley Davidson, Men Fitness and Maxim Magazines. But based on the urgency from Andrew's wife, they could use good, healthy food (canned goods, etc.). Anything will be much appreciated. (I'll try to get an updated list of 'necessities' from Tami.)"

Note: I do not post addresses here or in the group emails. You have to email me and request that information. Thanks. Nancy
_______________________________

Celebrate Independence Day by sending a note of appreciation to our troops

2010-07-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

We've all heard of the increased violence in Afghanistan and wonder when will it end. We may also wonder "what can I do"?

Here's my suggestion: this 4th of July, as you are celebrating our freedoms with your families and friends, take a few photos. Then send them along with a note to one of our troops.

Soldiers have told me that now more than ever, they need to hear that they are not forgotten. They enjoy hearing about "normal life" back here in the USA. With what they are dealing, it is often difficult to even imagine that there IS normal life still going on! Think of how it feels in the middle of freezing cold January days in Michigan when, while we KNOW there is plenty of warmth and sunshine on the Florida beaches, it's almost impossible to imagine that "sun and fun" activities are actually going on... Now imagine how THEY must feel.

To get a soldier's name email me at Nancy@auntnancyusa.com

_______________________________

No more packages to the 211MP BN

2010-04-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Today I was told that the 211 Military Police Battalion will be moving out in a few more weeks, and will not be able to use packages in May. Please do not send any additional packages. They can still receive packages that have already been sent.

Chaplain Pickens sends his thanks for all you have done to support the troops there. Captain V. Mack also has sent her regards for all that you have done for them.

Hopefully I'll receive their replacements' names in June.

_______________________________

4th of July celebration goodies

2010-04-12T13:02:00.000-07:00

It may seem hard to believe, but it's time to gather up goodies for 4th of July Independence Day packages!

Considering mail to Afghanistan usually takes at least 4 to 6 weeks, we should be mailing very soon.

Visit your local party supply center for patriotic themed decorations, plates and napkins, balloons, whatever looks fun. Add a few water toys, like squirt guns, for those 120 degree July days, throw in a few packages of Oreo cookies, and YOU will be the hero to our troops!

While it's not the best time to send chocolate, the troops tell me "melted chocolate is better than NO chocolate!" If you send some, make sure to put it inside ziploc bags so if it does melt it won't get all over everything. Buying chocolate bars that are inside individual wrappers helps too. Many of the soldiers have access to refrigerators and they store the chocolate there. Then later when they eat it it's like "a little air conditioner for my mouth!"

_______________________________

Easter Egg Hunt for the troops - or at least a card!

2010-03-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

Want to help a bunch of big tough guys act like little kids? Send some plastic Easter eggs filled with candy, fuzzy chick, Peeps, and the like!

While I should have organized this a month ago, there is still time to send some if you use PRIORITY MAIL. And, besides, like Christmas and other holidays, when it comes to our troops, "Better Late Than Never" absolutely applies!

So, if you want to send goodies to the same Chaplain Pickens of the 211MP that some of you sent to before, go for it. Otherwise, ask me for a name.

Any kind of Spring-themed cards would be appreciated. They are hoping for warmer weather too, it's very cold in Iraq and Afghanistan. Unfortunately it's a short time before it gets too hot. So send chocolate NOW! (but always put it in a sealed baggie.)

And, my "send a FREE card to the troops" campaign is still going:
www.sendoutcards.com/simcocards
You can even upload some family photos to make your card personal for the soldier.

_______________________________

Jesse Rada is deployed again.

2010-03-02T08:15:00.001-08:00

Jesse Rada contacted me this week to say he's deployed again. This time to Afghanistan.

He has also given me a few of his troops to find sponsors for, which I'll be doing over the next week.

They would love to get some M&M peanut candies! ;)

Jesse's photo from his previous deployment is still on the blog, down the left side. You all sent his unit some Christmas stockings back in 2006.

_______________________________

Girl Scout Cookies are a favorite of the troops!

2010-02-26T21:38:00.000-08:00

It's Girl Scout cookie time! Need I say anything more?????

_______________________________

A cool way to send cards to the troops; COP Shocker leaving

2010-01-23T21:06:00.000-08:00

Two items for you today.

1st, If you have been sending to troops at COP Shocker, you should discontinue now. Our troops are leaving and redeploying to home base.

2nd, one of our friends suggested I recommend you look at sending cards via SendOutCards system. It's a very cool online system that allows you to choose a card, personalize it, and just click "send". The company prints the card, stuffs it, puts a real US postage stamp on it, and takes it to the post office for you! And you can do for as little as $1.00 including the postage!

This could be perfect for our mail to the troops! The cards are very high quality. I'm excited about the possibilities!

You can:

personalize your card
send post cards (a little less cost than the greeting cards)
send a tri-fold card (a little more cost than the regular greeting cards)
set up several cards at one time and choose different mail out dates to your soldier
send multiple cards to different addresses
add photos (extra cost)

Anyway, I think it's a great idea! So much so that I joined the company this week and am now a distributor. Ah! you say! There's the catch! Well, maybe. Maybe I can make a couple pennies per card (someday). BUT -- I really want to make it easy for you to send cards to our soldiers. So, I've put in $100 for all of you*. The first people who visit SimcoCards website can open up a FREE SendOutCards account and then send a card to a soldier for FREE. On me. How's that??

Visit: www.SendOutCards.com/simcocards

Once you get to the Card Catalog there is a selection for "Valentines", and another for "Patriotic". If you send one now it should make it for Valentines Day. You can do it right from your computer.

If you don't have an individual soldier (I'm still having trouble getting new troop names) then consider sending a card to Chaplain Pickens. He has over 600 troops he is responsible for and wouldn't it be great if he got 600 cards? (you guys will have to pay for some of those!)

* Donations have been added by some troop supporters. You could also offer your free trial to your soldier to use to send a card home.

While I always promised I would never, ever, post a soldier's information online, this Chaplain said this would be OK. If the cards are addressed as below, he will not open them, just pass them to a soldier. (I may remove his name in a few weeks.) When you do this please include "Friends of Aunt Nancy USA" with your name in the cards so they will know how they got the card.

Send to:

CH (1LT) Jeremy Pickens

In Care of Any Soldier

211MP BN

Camp Taji, Iraq

APO AE 09374

You could also send card to wounded troops in Germany at:

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

ATTN: MCEUL-CH/Chaplains Office,

CMR 402

APO AE 09180

The soldiers can use this online card system too. Even though they don't have to pay for postage to mail to the USA, the cost for these cards and postage is less expensive than most cards all by themselves. Plus the troops can prepare several cards ahead of time to be mailed home in the future and they don't have to worry about remembering or getting time at a computer later.

Thanks again for helping. And let me know what you think of this online card system.

_______________________________

It's time to send Valentines Day Packages -- and buy Girl Scout Cookies!

2010-01-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

It's time to mail packages to the troops for Valentine's Day goodies!

Or at least cards. (Be sure to check that your unit is still deployed. See topic list on left-side, near the bottom of blog. Click on your unit for postings. Ex: the 93rd MPB has left Iraq.)

If you haven't heard back from your soldier don't despair... we most often do not. Send a card and ask what he or she would like. And tell them you'll send more if you hear back from them. In addition, some mail has yet to arrive in Iraq and Afghanistan. In fact, a soldier recently told me she mailed a card FROM Afghanistan TO Afghanistan and it took a month!

One recommendation: just send a Priority Mail, Flat Rate box full of Oreos! I'm told that has never failed to impress!

One group last year made up dozens of bag of treats. I think they even used Valentine ziploc baggies. Remember: no homemade goodies except to your personal soldier IF they agree ahead of time All store bought candy must be in original wrappers. Sand get into everything so putting goodies in sealed baggies is great - and the troops can re-used them.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES are the biggest hit of all. Not only are they delicious, but it's a great "All American" reminder, a real taste of home. Sending some to your individual soldier is the best, but here is another option:

Nancy: Caroline is selling Girl Scout cookies again this year. (I'm troop leader and cookie mom!) They have an awesome option for cookie sales. People can pay for cookies and the Girl Scouts will warehouse those cookies (instead of delivering them to us), then send them to the Troops overseas. Would you be able to post that on your Aunt Nancy website. I don't know if all councils are participating in this or not. People can check into it, or they can order from our troop and just mail me a check or cash to cover the sale. Cookies are $3.50 a box. Vicki

VMorton@DigitalRetroSpectives.com

Chaplain Pickens, in Iraq, covers over 600 troops. Should we start a project to get them loaded up with candy and cookies? Who's in?

By the way, this morning I sent a group webmail update. If you are signed up but did not receive it, please leave a comment below. It's been doing that to some people for well over a year. Today neither of my email addresses received it! And it was not in my Trash or Junk Mail folders. What to do? I don't know how to fix it. (and now, what's happening here on Blogger? My words are getting broken up at the end of the lines......)

_______________________________

Christmas stocking tally

2009-11-27T12:25:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone! While we still need stockings for the troops in Iraq, we have met the full request for our wounded troops at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. (IF everyone sends what they pledged). I now have another clinic asking for support -- this one in Iraq.

Should you go way above your pledged amount for any location, please contact me before sending them all.

Likewise, if you find you cannot fulfill what you offered to do, let me know also. Thanks.

Please try to remember to insert a copy of this Soldier Questionnaire in your packages: INFO SHEET.

One faithful volunteer has offered to help while I am gone to Europe. I'll be posting her email here in a couple of days. Thanks Lynn!!!
_______________________________

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-26T11:14:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to everyone who has pledged Christmas stockings for our troops. As of today there are 843 promised! (Assuming EVERYONE sends theirs). Be sure to get them in the mail soon. But, "better late than never" is a good motto to be sure.

With the addition of the 211th Military Police Brigade, I'm still looking for at least another 200 Christmas stockings. Email me at Nancy@auntnancyusa.com if you can help.

I will post a different email address while I'm on vacation next week. A wonderful person is going to fill in for me!

_______________________________

100 new names just received, and 211th MP adddress correction

2009-11-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

This morning I received 100 new soldier names! Will it be possible to get them "adopted" in the next week? I'm going to try! My husband I and I leave for vacation in one week so my time, as well as the postal service's, is limited.

Also, if your soldier is in the 211th Military Police, I was told this:

"When mailing, please remove the TIFRC and Iraq portion. "They" ask that
we don't label packages with this information as it calls more attention
to them."

It would be great to get Christmas stockings sent here too! We did reach our goal of 500 for the wounded troops at Landstuhl!

ps: I sent out a group webmail update this morning. If you have submitted your email address on my website but did not receive the email, check your junk folder.

_______________________________

Time to mail! About 10 days left!

2009-11-22T21:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who has joined in to send some cheer to our troops for the holidays. I have about one week before I leave for a vacation out of the country and will continue to answer as many email requests as I can until November 30th. If someone wants to volunteer to answer a few last minute emails for me, let me know. There will probably be a couple of dozen late joiners whom I won't be able to respond to otherwise. Every stocking helps!

Christmas Stocking count: I could still use about 150 more Christmas stockings for the wounded troops in our US Army hospital in Germany. Priority Mail to this location can arrive in 5 to 7 days!

Also, I did receive some contacts in Baghdad, and since their mail arrives quite efficiently, we can probably get by mailing to them for two more weeks.

REMEMBER: Never NOT mail something because it might be late! "Better Late Than Never" absolutely applies here.

Please try to remember to insert a copy of this Soldier Questionnaire in your packages: INFO SHEET.

Email me at Nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

_______________________________

Time is running out for stockings for our troops! 2009

2009-11-13T19:30:00.001-08:00

Time is moving too quickly -- there are about TWO weeks left to get Christmas stockings out to our troops. (December 1st! if you can't meet this date I can suggest other ways to help.)

If you can help, please email me ASAP. Email: Nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Some suggestions for filling the Christmas stockings:

Candy candy candy - chocolate, candy canes (mini ones ship best), hard candy, whatever.
Tubes of cookies or chips
Small (1.5oz) bags of cookies, Goldfish crackers, nuts, etc.
Mints, breath mints or strips
Fun novelty treats as are for sale at drug stores
Healthy snack/energy bars
Chewing gum
Beef jerky
Small cans of energy drinks (for troops in the field)
Starbucks "VIA" ready brew coffee packets (about $2 for a 3 pack)
Microwave popcorn (commercial only - no homemade products can be accepted)
Hot chocolate packets
Lipbalm (ex: Chapstick. For troops in the field; not needed at the hospital)
Small bottles of lotion
Nail clippers
Current music CDs, or movie DVDs
A short string of Christmas lights
did I mention: candy candy candy?
You'll find many fun items once you start looking!

Check back often as I will be updating this list.

Do NOT send batteries of any kind unless specifically noted for your soldiers.

Be sure to read the extensive DO NOT SEND list for the wounded troops in a posting below from a couple of weeks ago.

Do NOT wrap items in the stockings. For the safety and security of our wounded troops the Red Cross volunteers have to inspect the stockings.

If you and/or your group has some funds available for more costly items, the troops would really love to get
1. iTune cards,
2. iPod Shuffles,
3. long distance phone cards (domestic; with no expiration date)
4. hand-held electronic games.
Items 1 - 4 above should NOT be put into the stockings with the other items however. Put them into an envelope in the same box. The chaplains will insert them into stockings for the troops who need them the most.

Throwing a Santa hat or silly reindeer antlers into the box is fun too.

You may make the stockings personal by inserting a note card with your name and address if you would like, and even a photo.

If you make a stocking specifically for a female soldier, tie a big pink ribbon on to it with a label "Female".

Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com and I'll give you an address to send stockings too.

But hurry -- time is getting short. Plus, I'm going out of the country the first half of December. I'll answer as many emails as I can until then.

DECORATIONS: If you want to send decorations to your soldiers they should go out now to give the troops time to enjoy them before Christmas.

Dollar stores sell the nice 14" furry red and white stockings for, you guessed it, $1.00!

Of course, non-denominational packages can be sent too. In this photo below you'll see some boxes rather than stockings.

Postage rates:

Your packages are actually going to a military base in the USA, so you are not paying international mailing rates. Still, it can get costly.
For mailings after November 15th you must use PRIORITY MAIL. (I recommend always using Priority Mail. The packages are handled better all along the route.)
Priority Mail FLAT RATE boxes usually save you money (over normal Priority Mail rates). As long as you can close the box with the flaps in place, the weight can go up to over 20 pounds.
There is a military discount of $2.00 if you use the LARGE flat rate priority boxes. I think they cost about $14 to mail now, but only about $12 if it's going to an Army Post Office (APO) destination as ours are.

Other mailing tips:

As of November 15th the post office recommends all packages go Priority Mail. Parcel Post may not make it in time for Christmas. USPS dates link

Packages should be neat and professional looking. Using the free boxes from the post office for Priority Mail works well.
Do tape well. All edges and corners. Use clear tape if possible.
Do write all addresses neatly. Security is very important. If your return address is not clear, the package could be discarded.
Do not decorate the outside of the box. Do not make it tempting for possible theft.
Do seal any liquids inside a ziploc bag. (You might use holiday bags to make it look nice.)

click here for USPS: USPS Military Packages link

Customs Declaration forms will be required.

Getting forms ahead of time will be helpful so you can list the contents of the package before sealing it.
You will have to list all contents, but do not make the lists too detailed.
Don't list "Christmas stocking" as that will make it more tempting to thieves. You might put "socks" (hey, that's not UNtrue!)
You will have list the contents, but be as vague as you can and still be legal. Again to avoid encouraging theft.

Joining in late? Too busy?
If you are too rushed to get items out in time for the holidays, I do have a Chaplain looking for supplies you can help with. Ask me about COP Shocker unit.

If you would like to just send a couple of bags of candy for the troops you can do that too!

AND PLEASE NOTE:

Here's a link for other ways Walter Reed Army Hospital can use help: http://www.wramc.army.mil/support/Pages/default.aspx

I have names of troops you can send your cards to if you would like to do so.

93rd Military Police Brigade - must mail now

2009-11-07T21:45:00.000-08:00

CLOSING APO: The 93rd Military Police Brigade is scheduled to leave Iraq in January, and I just received word that they will only be able to receive packages up to December 1st.

So you must mail Christmas boxes NOW! (to THIS unit in Baghdad.) Packages mailed PRIORITY MAIL should arrive in 7 to 10 days to this unit. (Remember to use the large FLAT RATE Priority Mail boxes to get the military discount.)

They can receive letters up to December 15th. If you can send one last note of support and cheer it would mean a lot.

Then their Army Post Office (APO) will be closed as they get ready to redeploy out of Iraq.

_______________________________

STOCKINGS FOR THE 93rd:

If those of you who have adopted a soldier in this unit would like to send a stocking for him or her you must mail it very soon. I would allow 2 weeks - November 15 mailing if possible. You can always put a "Do Not Open Until Christmas" note inside your package. (not that anyone would actually wait!)

If you would like to surprise your soldier, you may address your package to the "back-up name" (In case of non-delivery) I gave you in your intro email. Put a note to her and indicate who the stocking should go to on Christmas Eve, or whenever they hold their candlelight services.

If you have not written your assigned soldier, or have been able to do so for over a month, please let me know. I have a waiting list of people who want to help and no soldiers.

_______________________________

Note: I sent out a group email distribution this evening. If you are signed up but not receiving these updates, check your junk mail folder.

_______________________________

2009 Christmas Stockings for Our Wounded Troops

2009-11-07T18:32:00.001-08:00

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, our US Army hospital in Germany, has asked me for 500 stockings for our wounded troops.

As of 11/13/09 I have pledges for 301.

Some suggestions for filling the Christmas stockings:

Candy candy candy - chocolate, candy canes (mini ones ship best), hard candy, whatever.
Tubes of cookies or chips
Small (1.5oz) bags of cookies, Goldfish crackers, nuts, etc.
Mints, breath mints
Fun novelty treats as are for sale at drug stores
Healthy snack/energy bars
Chewing gum
Small cans of energy drinks
Starbucks "VIA" ready brew coffee packets (about $2 for a 3 pack)
Microwave popcorn (commercial only - no homemade products can be accepted)
Hot chocolate packets
Lipbalm (ex: Chapstick)
Current music CDs, or movie DVDs
You'll find many fun items once you start looking!

Do NOT send batteries of any kind to the hospital.

Do NOT wrap items in the stockings. For the safety and security of our wounded troops the Red Cross volunteers have to inspect the stockings.

If you and/or your group has some funds available for more costly items, the troops would really love to get

iTune cards,
iPod Shuffles,
long distance phone cards (with no expiration date)
hand-held electronic games.

Items 1 - 4 should NOT be put into the stockings with the other items however. Put them into an envelope in the same box. The chaplains will insert them into stockings for the troops who need them the most.

You may make the stockings personal by inserting a note card with your name and address if you would like, and even a photo. But know that we rarely hear back from the wounded troops.

If you make a stocking specifically for a female soldier, tie a big pink ribbon on to it with a label "Female".

Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com and I'll give you an address to send stockings too.

But hurry -- time is getting short, and, I'm going out of the country the first half of December. I'll answer as many emails as I can until then.

Of course, non-denominational packages can be sent too. In this photo below you'll see some boxes rather than stockings.

_______________________________

Another good reason to send candy to our troops....

2009-11-06T16:11:00.000-08:00

Besides the fact that our troops LOVE candy (especially chocolate!) they often share what they receive with the local children. Many of you have sent candy (one women last year sent over 200 pounds of left-over Halloween candy she collected!) and some have sent Beanie Babies, school supplies, and even soccer balls.

This week I received a wonderful 1945 story from a woman. She said I could share it with you. You'll never know how long lasting your good deeds might be:

Hi y'all,

my daughter in law sent me your email and since
we do have so many Halloween candies left, I'm sending
them out together with her and another friends candies .

The reason I want to adopt an soldier is the following.

I was 10 years old the month of April in 1945 when
the American troops marched into Korntal bei Stuttgart
in Germany. Since we were the first house on the
outskirts of the small city, the commanding officers
with their soldiers put up their headquarters in our
Dining room.
My father was still somewhere in Estland,
so only my mother and I were at home.
I was ordered to stay in the cellar, but eventually
went up into the kitchen, where an soldier was
stationed. He saw me, waved to me to come in
and to my surprise emptied his pockets and gave me
all his candies and chocolate bars he had, the first
candies and chocolates I had seen in years.
Then he said in a broken German" I have a little girl
like you in America!"

This American soldier may be still alive, may be not,
but he sure lives on in my memories.

May be you can get me in touch with an younger
soldier who would like to hear some other amazing stories
from someone who remembers so fondly one of his kind.

Sincerely
Gerda (Gege) G.

Our troops do similar good deeds. Here are pictures soldiers have sent me, showing them sharing what we (YOU) have mailed to them. These were soccer balls -- a big hit for kids without any toys.

2009 Christmas mailing deadlines from the USPS

2009-11-03T15:26:00.001-08:00

Here is a web link for information from the United States Postal Service regarding mailing deadlines for Christmas packages: USPS Holiday Info

For regular Parcel Post you need to get your packages in the mail by mid-November! Start early, or, use Priority Mail (recommended by me!) Mail to Baghdad is pretty good now, but if you are mailing to Afghanistan it will take much longer. If you want to send decorations the troops can use for a couple of weeks before any holidays, remember to allow time for that.

I encourage all packages to be shipped by Thanksgiving week even with Priority Mail. Chaplains sometimes want to hand goodies out at parties and religious services which often take place early.

Speaking of holidays: it's not too late to send Thanksgiving cards now.

Below is a partial chart:

MILITARY MAILING DEADLINES

Military Mail Addressed To	Express Mail® Military Service (EMMS)1/	First-Class Mail® Letters and Cards	Priority Mail®	Parcel Airlift Mail (PAL) 2/	Space Available Mail (SAM)3/	Parcel Post®
APO/FPO AE ZIPs 090-092	Dec-18	Dec-11	Dec-11	Dec-4	Nov-28	Nov-13
APO/FPO AE ZIP 093	N/A	Dec-4	Dec-4	Dec-1	Nov-21	Nov-13
APO/FPO AE ZIPs 094-098	Dec-18	Dec-11	Dec-11	Dec-4	Nov-28	Nov-13
APO/FPO AA ZIP 340	Dec-18	Dec-11	Dec-11	Dec-4	Nov-28	Nov-13
APO/FPO AP ZIPs 962-966	Dec-18	Dec-11	Dec-11	Dec-4	Nov-28	Nov-13

The USPS offers free boxes for Priority Mail and a discount on shipping to Army Post Office (APO) addresses. See the link above for more details.

It is important to keep your packages well taped, professional looking, and neat. If your return address is not nice and clear the package will be thrown away for security reasons.

Do not put cute stickers or decorations on the packages as it may encourage theft.

Get your Customs Declaration forms ahead of time to make them easier to fill in.
_______________________________

Halloween Candy for our wounded troops

2009-10-29T16:13:00.000-07:00

Nov 18th update: Thanks everyone! These troops should not be wanting of candy for awhile due to all your donations!

Left-over candy??

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC), our US Army Hospital located in Germany, is low on candy and welcomes your left-over Halloween treats. All candy should be in original wrappers and bags. No home-made items are accepted.

If you have some to share, send it to:
Ask me for an address.

You will need to fill out a Customs Declaration form at the post office.

And please also let me know if you send out candy as I try to keep track of how much is sent to different destinations. email nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Since you will be mailing to an Army Post Office (APO) destination, you only have to pay domestic postage rates (not overseas rates to Germany).

NOTE: Candy is heavy. Those of you doing an office collection or school project, I recommend you solicit for funds for shipping too. Since there is no "due date" for the candy, regular parcel post is the cheapest way to go. If you are going to send decorations, candy and/or gifts for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holidays, mail early and use Priority Mail FLAT RATE boxes. The US Postal Service gives a discount for Army Post Office (APO) destinations.

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center is the hospital more severely wounded are flown to immediately after being hurt. They are cared for there until they can return to their unit, or, are flown to a hospital in the USA. I'm also looking for volunteers to commit to sending Christmas stocking there too. (Limited amount, so you must let me know.) nancy@auntnancyusa.com

To see more about what is needed for arriving wounded troops, see postings below (or search by "LRMC"). Note their "Do NOT Send" list too. It is different for the hospital than for soldiers out in the field. See this link: LRMC requests

_______________________________

Halloween candy, cards, and decorations

2009-10-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

If your family, school, church, or work group would like to get some candy to our troops for Halloween, send me an email at nancy@auntnancyusa.com and I will give you a soldier/unit to send it to.

Some tips:

Candy is very heavy, and shipping costs are high. I recommend using FLAT RATE Priority Mail boxes at this point. FLAT RATE pays off for candy. I think I saved $7 on one box (vs. regular Priority Mail.) Therefore, if your group is collecting, be sure to ask for monetary donations to help with the shipping costs. To save more money you can just send by regular parcel post, but it may not get there in time now for Afghanistan and some areas of Iraq. If you are including cards and decorations, it has to go Priority Mail now. Packages to the Army hospital in Germany need less time. The post office offers a $2 discount to Army Post Office (APO) destinations on the LARGE Flat Rate boxes only which will end up costing you about $10 to ship. For candy sent AFTER the holidays, and no arrival deadling, regular mail is all that's necessary. Update 11/2/09: now that Halloween if over, you can just send your left-over candy Parcel Post.
The troops LOVE chocolate! Just like the rest of us! It's less likely to melt this time of year, but, make sure it is in a sealed bag. The US Postal Service requires any liquid (which the chocolate could become!) in sealed bags. If it is not in a manufacturers bag, then seal it in a Ziploc-style bag. No homemade/homebaked items allowed.
You will need to fill out a Customs Declaration form for each box. Getting the forms at the post office ahead of time, and partially filling in will help you once the candy starts arriving.
Cards: You can buy packages of Halloween cards to include in the boxes, or, make your own. No name on the outside of the cards please. Our contacts will hand them out. Paper products are fun too (plates, napkins, silly stuff.)
Notes: You might want to include a note in each box to inform the troops of your name, address, and/or email address, to let them know who sent the goodies. Be sure to add that you got their name from "Aunt Nancy USA" but, that their name is NOT available online.

After Halloween:

Last year dozens of boxes of Halloween candy were sent to our troops using leftover goodies. School, families, and neighbors collected. It made the soldiers happy AND probably saved us a few extra pounds on the hips! Regular Parcel Post is the cheapest when no arrival deadline is required. The Landstuhl Regional Medical Center is low on candy for the wounded troops so let's get them some.

If you want to do that, let me know.

Then, get ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas!

Christmas packages need to be mailed to Iraq & Afghanistan by Thanksgiving week. IF you use Priority Mail, you can mail in early December for Baghdad. So it's already time to start organizing. Most people don't really think about it until Thanksgiving. Then, it's almost too late.

I will again be asking people to participate in sending filled Christmas stockings to our wounded troops at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany (LRMC). They like to begin handing out the goodies to our troops who arrive starting at Thanksgiving, and right up through New Year's Day. Take a look down the left side of this blog for pictures from previous years. LRMC has asked for 500 stockings this year. They also need knit caps and gloves for wounded troops being flown in cold helicopters.

And lastly, I will be out of town FOUR weeks between now and Christmas, including time out of the country. So, the earlier you contact me, the better chance I have of getting to you.

THANKS EVERYONE!!

_______________________________

772nd Military Police leaving this week; 252nd & 211 MPCo available

2009-10-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those of you who took soldiers in the 772 Military Police Company. As you may recall, it was a short, 4 month commitment since I did not get their names until last May.

SGT Chapman has given me a contact with a Platoon Sergeant for 2nd Platoon 252nd Military Police Company out of Cleveland, TN. They will be here for there for the next 10 months or so.

And: 211th MP BN out of Massachusetts.

If you can take another name, please let me know. I would particularly like to get the 252 well supported for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the other quickly approaching holidays.
so.

_______________________________

Supporting a Vet - online sales

2009-10-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

One of our Iraqi war veterans has asked me to hold an online Pampered Chef "party" for her.
So though the month of October you can go to PAMPERED CHEF and take a look to see if there are items you may be interested in.

The now-retired soldier is Liz Graybill.

_______________________________

Halloween! and other upcoming holiday planning

2009-09-28T13:05:00.000-07:00

Group email sent 9/27/09:

Hello friends and family,

How can October be coming this week? The temperatures in the deserts are just starting to cool off just a bit -- "only" 97 degrees in Baghdad; and a "chilly" 84 in Kabul today! Yet, it's time for thinking about the holidays for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

HALLOWEEN is just around the corner, considering shipping time. We only need 10 days for Priority Mail to Baghdad, but for our troops in Afghanistan, I'm not really sure. I know it can take 6 weeks for regular mail. Priority Mail much quicker, but it depends on where your particular soldier is stationed. If you have an estimate from your own packages, let me know.

One soldier emailed me today to say they have celebrated NO holidays since arriving in Afghanistan this Spring. She thought some candy and paper decorations would be great fun. Thanksgiving even more so.

So please be encouraged to send something to your soldier very soon, and plan for THANKSGIVING treats and greeting cards. (You can also send left-over Halloween candy, but getting goodies ahead of time is more thoughtful).

CHRISTMAS packages should be sent Priority Mail around Thanksgiving, so it's not that far off either. The Army hospital in Germany likes to pass out Christmas stockings to wounded soldiers arriving starting on Thanksgiving Day, therefore you early birds can get started now!

Since I will be out of the country after Thanksgiving Week, I ask all of you to plan ahead more than usual for Christmas sign-ups.

If you don't have an individual soldier of your own to support but would like to help with some holiday projects/goodies, you know I can help you do that! The chaplains love to collect and pass out our treats.

Check the blog regularly for updates, and please do not respond to this email address. It just doesn't work correctly anymore.
Email me at: usanancy@gmail.com Thanks!

Nancy

--

PS: The US Army hospital in Germany is looking for candy for our wounded troops too.
_______________________________

93rd MPB status

2009-09-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

The 93rd MPB is expected to be in service until January 2010. Unless your soldier has an individual redeployment date, you should continue with letters and packages through Christmas.

_______________________________

8th Military Police Brigade returning home

2009-09-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

Today I was informed that the 8th Military Police Brigade is returning to the USA in October!

No more mail should be sent.

I'll be getting replacement names soon for the holidays.

_______________________________

New Troops in Afghanistan

2009-07-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

While we celebrate that our troops in the 715th have returned from Afghanistan, I have recently received some new names. These troops are stationed at FOB Lightning. There are about a half dozen and they do have email access sometimes.

Here are messages from two:

I was wondering how I can get adopted please?
My name is SGT Gail S. I've been in the US Army for over 8 years. I'm deployed to FOB Lightning in Afghanistan. I'm the proud mom of a one year old girl and a three year old boy. My husband works and takes care of our little ones, so he doesn't really have much time to write to me. That's okay with me since our babies come first, but it sure would be nice to get mail at least every now and then, so I hope you consider me for your program!

Gail S

Dear Aunt Nancy,
Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful service to the troops. You are an awesome American and I wish there were more like you. I sometimes feel that Americans have forgotten that we are still over here, but knowing there are people like you renews my faith in our country. Thank you for YOUR service and for boosting the morale of all the troops you touch.
Sincerely,
SSG Guy S

_______________________________

Candy and supplies needed for the wounded warriors in Germany

2009-06-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

From the Wounded Warriors Center at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (Army Hospital) in Germany.

My name is Lisa P. – I am the new Donations Coordinator. Laura Smith is moving to the states in July and she will be missed!!
A needs list is attached. There were only a few changes this time around. We will be doing a more complete inventory this summer and will probably update again in the fall for the colder weather.
I can tell you that we are rapidly going through our candy supply. We tend to receive candy around Christmas and Valentine’s Day and then the supply slims down for the months in between. Some sort of 4^th of July treats would be welcomed. I just started volunteering at the WWMC in January and I’m not sure what you did with Laura for the Christmas Stockings, but I am up for just about anything!
Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you and working with you in the future,
Lisa P.

Wounded Warrior Ministry Center

Pastoral Services Division

Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

The Wounded Warrior Ministry Center (WWMC) is an entity within LRMC Pastoral Services that cares for the needs of wounded and ill service members medevac’d from the GWOT. The WWMC provides items of comfort to “fill holes” until the service member’s personal items can catch up with them in the military healthcare system.

The WWMC services more than 750 service members each month. Since the WWMC is a non-funded entity (within DOD), we rely on the generous donations of fellow Americans and others, both substantive and monetary, to provide these items. We truly appreciate the efforts of each and every person willing to share “hugs from home” and words of encouragement with those who have given so much for the cause of Freedom in our world!

This list will be updated periodically. Be sure to read the "NOT Needed" list too!

Phone cards – Domestic only with no expiration date

Black 30 inch duffel bags (no logos)

Long sleeve t-shirts/shirts L-XL-M-S (in this order)

Pajama pants (men’s sizes L, XL, M (in this order)

Men’s t-shirts L, M (not undershirts)

Men’s Slippers (slip-on non-slip) sizes 8-14

Women’s t-shirts S, M, L, XL

Bras/Sports bras 32-38

Travel Pillows

Nail clippers

Men’s & Women’s Deodorant

Lip Balm/Chapstick

Travel size shaving cream

Travel size Gold Bond Powder

Hand-held electronic games

Healthy snack bars, chocolate, and candy

DVDs (no extreme violence or nudity – no VHS tapes)

iTunes Cards

iPod Shuffles

DO NOT send USED items!

* * * ITEMS NOT NEEDED AT THIS TIME * * *
As of this time we have no need for anything not on the current list (updated regularly).

Thank you for your generosity.

Please do not send the following:

No Men’s white or color briefs
No CDs, Video tapes
No Bar soap, large and hotel size
Bubble bath, salts
Hair conditioner
No Large toothpaste
No Toothbrushes
Combs
Make-up and facial creams, nail polish, etc. including samples
Lotion any size
Baby wipes
Q-tips
Large economy size toiletries
Pre-packaged toiletry kits
Bath towels & face cloths
Lap blankets/double, queen or king size blankets
No Women’s underwear
No Feminine products
No Books, magazines
No Playing cards
Sudoku and puzzle books
Pencils, erasers and pencil sharpeners
No Writing paper / Envelopes are needed
Blank greeting cards
Any size batteries - none are required anymore
Over the counter medications/any medications
Coffee mugs
Candles, matches, lighters
Canned food
Any knitted items
Signed holiday cards (Christmas, Valentines, Easter, etc.) Please only send a very few – we receive thousands more than the number of patients that come in all year and cannot possibly distribute them all.
NO Used clothing – or clothing with stains or holes or broken zippers, missing buttons, etc.

For updated list contact: WoundedWarriorMinistryCenter@yahoo.com

April 2009

Donation to the WWMC fund for items that are used for targeted high-demand and seasonal items would be acceptable
(payable to: IMCOM-E CTOF-WW)
_______________________________

I do not publish individual's addresses online.
If you want to help, email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com

_______________________________

4th of July - Goodies and Cards; 2-8 Cavalry

2009-06-16T21:34:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in sending out a few patriotic cards for 4th of July I can give you a chaplain's name and address to send them to.

I just received contact with a chaplain's assistant of the 2-8 Cavalry Battalion of the 1st Cavalry Division. They have 650 troops and would like to receive support. They will be deployed through the end of this year.

For those of you who already have a soldier:
There's still time to send some fun 4th of July goodies to your soldiers (if you use Priority Mail). A nice card, or some red, white, and blue candy, whatever you can think of! Some soldiers have requested small squirt guns and water balloons if you are looking for ideas. They also like new music cd's, and a current sports magazine...

_______________________________

772 MP's - a 4 month request for support

2009-06-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

It's 120 degrees in Iraq now --- and not about to cool off.

I just received a few more soldiers' names from the 772 Military Police Company who are in need of mail and some extra support to get through this Summer deployment. It would be especially nice for them to receive something by 4th of July.

It's only a 4 month request, as they are leaving Iraq in October, so I hope more people will consider adopting someone... Even if it's just a greeting card and/or a pack of Kool-Aid to freshen up the taste of their water!

email me at usanancy@gmail.com if you can help for a few months.

Stephen Colbert recently performed in Baghdad for some of the units we support. I don't know if any our individual soldiers got to see him. You could ask yours if he/she did. Here's the weblink:

http://www.csmonitor.com/
_______________________________

A Note From Buffie - THANK YOU!

2009-05-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

We have supported Buffie H. since the start in 2003 when she was in the 18th Military Police Brigade with my niece, Sara, in Baghdad. She then returned to Baghdad two more times with the 89th Military Police as they alternated tours of duty with the 18th. She was our contact as the Chaplain's Assistant. Some of you "adopted" her (I think her first request was a pool stick -- and she got it!), MANY of you supported her soldiers, and even many more have sent Christmas packages, birthday and 4th of July party celebration supplies!

She is still sending us troops who could use our support. And here is a recent email from her that I thought you might enjoy. She is now stationed at Fort Bragg.

Aunt Nancy,

I really do miss corresponding with you. Thank you so much for taking care of our soldiers. Since I've been in recruiting I have been very busy with this task of putting them in boots... Thats a saying we have. "Put em in Boots!!"

While I was deployed I made some pretty amazing friends through your program. You all made me me look good when it came to events for my Soldiers. We did Christmas programs, Thanksgiving, Birthday celebration, Mayor's Cup events, and fourth of July celebrations in addition to much more.

I really miss being in Iraq and supporting the fight and being in the fight. I don't want to go back!!!! but I do miss it. My heart is still there with the troops. I wish I could express to you my gratitude. If you could tell all your supporters that I said thank you that would be amazing.

SSG BUFFIE H.
US Army Recruiter
Fort Bragg, NC

_______________________________

The 772 Military Police Company asks our help

2009-05-24T21:47:00.001-07:00

Craig R. C., of the 772 MP Company at Camp Delta in Iraq, has sent me a dozen names of troops who are not getting much, if any, mail from home. If you would be willing to take one to support just until September 2009, please email me at USANANCY@gmail.com

Thanks!

Aunt Nancy,
Thank You so much for your efforts in supporting our troops deployed
overseas. I will check with some of the soldiers and see if they would
like to share their email address....I am not too sure if they are
having the same problem with emails as they are their regular mail..If
you would like you can always send email to me and I can pass it along
to my troops.

My two daughters schools send packages, letters, and emails and I get my
platoon together and share their letters, etc. with all of them.

Again thank you for your Kind Gestures and Hard Work to support our troops.
We greatly appreciate it..more than you may ever know!

Serving Proudly Overseas In Iraq

Craig R. C.
2nd Plt Sergeant
772 MP CO
Camp Delta, Iraq

_______________________________

715th Military Police mail stop.

2009-05-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

The 715th Military Police unit we have been supporting in Afghanistan is departing soon. Many won't leave until early July, so they can receive mail through May (their Army Post Office, APO, generally closes a month before they leave.)

Since I don't know exactly who is leaving this month, except Jeff Pilgrim, no packages should be sent unless your soldier has indicated otherwise. One more card or letter won't hurt though.

My contact wrote:

"Hello:

Just wanted to update you and let you know that there will be a mail stop put in soon for Jeff. They will be moving them into tents on May 20. So if you could halt all packages and not send out any mail for him as of this Friday, May 8.

Thanks for all the support thus far :)

It is much appreciated :)

Jill P."

_______________________________

93rd Military Police Brigade: Thanks for the Easter goodies!

2009-05-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

The 93rd POLICE BRIGADE* chaplains office sent a big THANKS! for all the Easter goodies! They report it was a lot of fun watching these big boys and girls acting like kids searching for hidden plastic eggs! Unfortunately, reality was brought back to them the very next day when the enemy hit the unit and they lost a soldier. That's the reality they live with every day.

As the summer heat kicks in the chaplains are now asking for water toys of any kind: balloons, water pistols, etc. Consider sending your soldier something fun, or get a few items to send directly to the chaplains office. (I can give you the name and address).

With Memorial Day approaching quickly, a greeting card would be a nice thought for your soldier too.

*mis-identified as the "8th Military Police" in webmail update.
_______________________________

Sadness and Encouragement; Beanie Babies collection

2009-04-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

Friends,

As much of the world celebrates Passover and Easter, today we heard of another car bombing in Baghdad. Among others, 5 US soldiers were killed. Also on the news were stories about the increasing number of troops committing suicide. It is all so sad.

So many of us feel such frustration. When we think there is nothing we can do, I want to remind you that several times I have received thank you notes from soldiers who have said something like "When I didn't think I could go on or take anymore, I received a card or package from a stranger who got my name from you. I want to tell you it saved my life". YOU can make a difference!

Other times soldiers have written to me to say that although troops often don't respond, we all should know how our cards and notes DO boost the morale of our guys and gals living in this awful environment.

ADOPTING TROOPS: With that in mind, I still have about 30 troops in the 93rd Military Police who do not have individual sponsors, and I just received word from a previously supported unit that they are returning to the war zone soon. I said I would try to get them all sponsors if I can.

THE ECONOMY: The economy has affected the troops too. Many soldiers' families are sending less, and fewer volunteers are helping. Please consider joining in and taking a name. Goody packages are not required -- just regular greeting cards and notes are the minimum I ask. Of course, a little candy now and then is fun for them to receive!

BEANIE BABY COLLECTION: We are also looking for clean, "gently used" Beanie Babies for the troops to keep in their pockets and use as goodwill towards children in these war torn areas. Please email me at usanancy@gmail.com for an address (I do not post soldiers' addresses online).

_______________________________

Several Thank You notes from the 93rd Military Police

2009-04-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

One of our helpers received this email and I thought I'd share it with you. In case you do NOT hear back from your soldier, you might understand why:

Thank you so much. Please forgive me for not responding sooner, the rythem here is so fast that the days come and go. There is little personal time.

Me and my Soldiers appreciate all that you and your organization is doing for us. They get big smiles, start bragging about what is in their boxes then they trade it is a good moral boost:}

I look forward to what ever you decide to send. Different flavors of microwave popcorn would be great!!

SSG T

I still need 45 more people to adopt a soldier from this unit, so please keep spreading the word!

Another note of appreciation:

Rev. Eberhard,
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the wonderful
goody boxes that my Soldiers and I received from Historic Trinity
Lutheran Church. Everything in the boxes was something we could use.
It is heartwarming for us to be reminded that we have not been
forgotten. Though my Soldiers and their Families do not do what they do
nor sacrifice what they sacrifice in an attempt to earn the gratitude of
the American public. It's nice to know that great folks like you
appreciate what we do. I am amazed daily at the level of commitment to
duty, to our Army Values and to each other that my young Warriors
display. If you had a chance to meet them, you would be equally as
proud. I'm sure you understand that though because your parishioners
have demonstrated to us an outstanding level of care and commitment.

Thanks again

DJR
CSM, USA
93D MP BN

_______________________________

The 93rd Military Police Brigade & An Easter Egg Hunt!

2009-03-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

The latest unit to ask for our support are in the 93rd Military Police Brigade, stationed in Baghdad.
There are about 100 soldiers whom I'm trying to find sponsors for, so if you would like a name email me at usanancy@gmail.com

EASTER: The Chaplain's Assistant and my POC for these troops is asking our help for an Easter Egg Hunt! There isn't much time, but if you can get some plastic eggs and candy sent out it would be most appreciated! Email me for the address.

This could be a nice project for families, scout, or school groups: write little notes of cheer and put them in plastic eggs! Maybe along with those silly little fuzzy yellow chicks? or something else fun.
Any candy sent must be in it's original store bag for security reasons. So sweets like jelly beans should be sent still in their bags. If you would like to fill the Easter eggs, do so with little bitty candies still in their wrappers like the tiny bite-size candy bars.

All the Easter cards we can send would also be fun -- both religious and otherwise. I have over 200 names if you want to send them personally. Or, just sign a few and the chaplains can pass them out.

Easter requests:

Plastic colored eggs
Candy to fill the eggs
Colored plastic grass
200 Chocolate bunnies
Cards, lots of cards!
Decorations

PRIORITY MAIL packages will get here in less than a week, but the chaplains need time to organize it all, so the sooner the better. THANKS! I suggest mailing by March 29.

If you would like to send little packages of Easter cheer for a number of troops, I like to suggest putting some candy, maybe a little Easter grass, some kind of small toy or fuzzy chick, and a signed card in a small zip-loc-style baggie like these troops received for Valentine's Day:

Since sand gets into everything, the sealed bags work nicely.

NOTE: If you have already accepted one of the soldiers from the 93rd MPB, I may have put a wrong name in your info letter -- It was SPC Smith who sent me the names, NOT SSG Lloyd (that's for another unit.)

PS: My husband and I are traveling and don't get internet every night, so, I'll try to answer emails as quickly as possible.

The original request from the 93rd MPB:

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all again for all
the prayers and support. I was sitting outside today with some of our
soldiers talking about lent and Easter and one of the main things that
kept coming up was soldiers missing the Easter egg hunt with their kids
this year while deployed. This brought on a stream of thoughts with what
we could do, now clearly we cannot bring the kids to the soldiers or the
soldiers to the kids over this holiday, but the next best thing would be
to bring an Easter Egg hunt to Baghdad. Realizing that this is a little
short notice I was wondering if there would be a chance to collect
Easter eggs and Easter candy so that this Easter egg hunt can become a
reality.

While Easter is in my opinion the biggest Christian Holiday of
the year, we are hoping that this will provide an opportunity for us to
spread the good word to some of our soldiers who may not celebrate
Easter regularly, or may not even call themselves Christians. If you
would be willing to send some packages of plastic Easter eggs and Easter
candy please let me know. I would love to bring some fun and faith to my
soldiers during this time of war and separation.

God Bless,

Tiann Smith
SPC, USA
Chaplain Assistant
93D Military Police Battalion
Camp Liberty, Iraq

_______________________________

K9 Group is back!

2009-02-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

Today I received an email from James Hazelton whom we've supported before. He is part of a K9 dog training unit and is looking for support for 4 soldiers and their dogs again.

So, in addition to the 80 new troops I received last week, I have these soldiers. Hope you can help!!

_______________________________

716 Military Police - THANK YOU - now redeploying

2009-01-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

The 716th is packing up and preparing to leave Iraq. No more packages or letters now to THIS unit.
I'm expecting to get new names as the 93rd Military Police Brigade is arriving. The replacement troops are out of Fort Bliss, Texas. There will probably be 60 or 70 new soldiers I'll be looking to find sponsors for.

Here's the email from my contact in the 716:

Aunt Nancy,

Thank you for distributing our Soldier's names to other people. They did
follow through and we had more than plenty of goodies to spread around.
SSG Cobb has some pictures of the Christmas party that he was going to
send (if he hasn't already) to just let you know that we had a wonderful
time, in part because of people like you.

Since we are nearing the end of our deployment, we no longer are having
things sent to us. The new unit replacing us however, will be more than
happy to start receiving goodies from your group. They are the 93rd MP
Bn from Fort Bliss, Texas. They'll be ready to start receiving packages
towards the middle of February. Once I know a good point of contact,
I'll make sure to let you know once I get it.

Have a great day and again, I appreciate all that you have done from the
bottom of my heart, thank you!

- SGT Ramirez

and another:

I truly thank you and those who've helped you for all the support given
to 716TH MP BN. Looking back, there had been enormous amount of support
from people like you to our unit. Truthfully speaking, part of it has
been taken for granted. Many of the Soldiers were busy getting the
mission completed including myself. Looking back in time, I regret not
taking enough time to thank those who are always by our side back home.

We will be heading to Kuwait in about 2 weeks.

I can't thank enough. Please tell those around you as well that we are
grateful.

Take care Aunt Nancy!!!

Hanna H.

- - -

Here's another thank you from a different unit:

Nancy:

I am a Soldier serving in Baghdad. Much to my surprise, I received a
very nice letter from a complete stranger in New York. Thanks for what
you do.

v/r,

J. KESSLER
8th Military Police Brigade

_______________________________

Valentine's Day and Girl Scout Cookies!!

2009-01-10T07:45:00.000-08:00

Our Soldiers really, really LOVE Girl Scout cookies! It's my most asked for item! If you want to help Girl Scout Troops AND our Military Troops away from home, AND avoid all the calories (OK, keep a box or two for yourself haha) consider buying some for our soldiers!

Valentine Day treats make their day too! This is another great classroom, Scout group, or family project. (All food products must be store bought and in original packaging.)

If you sent Christmas stockings to Dave Shaw, Christina Lloyd, or Patricia Ramirez, you may send goodies for them to continue to pass along. Of course if you have adopted an individual soldier, he or she would get a kick out of receiving something directly from you. I still have about 30 waiting for a sponsor.

If you received a soldier name prior to September 2008, that troop may no longer be "in theatre". Be sure to check for updates here --- see older posts topics along the left side.

I will be out of town this week and may not be checking email until after January 18th.

_______________________________

Note from Afghanistan - it's very cold there now!

2008-12-31T11:15:00.000-08:00

Here's a note home from one of "our" soldiers currently serving in Afghanistan. It is freezing there now. I think the heating pad idea is a great one! Hopefully we will be able to share more updates.
If you have received a Thank-You from your soldier, or anything you think others may appreciate reading, send it to me: nancy@auntnancyusa.com
I don't generally post full names unless the troop gives the "OK".

Hi honey,
I miss you and really hope you are getting better. There is not a whole lot I can do except pray and make it though this deployment. I am tired, tired of cold showers and stepping out into cold wheather after getting wet from ice cold water. Sometimes, I luck out and get one minute of warm water in my shower, but it does not last long enough to rise.

Yes, the heating pad works, and I don't want to get out of bed because it is cold. I wish I could wear it in the shower. It is so cold I have to sleep with my shampoo to keep it from getting frozen in the bottle. It is so cold I have to put my water in the fridge to keep it from freezing overnight.

Honey, when I come home I have some stories to tell you. This deployment has been an awesome adventure and I cant wait to tell you. I love you alot. Tell C. I say "Whats up dude". Tell your momma, to put some beans in the kettle I will be home soon. At least for a little while.
LOVE
Jeff YOUR HUSBAND

_______________________________

A Thank You from the 716th Military Police

2008-12-19T22:38:00.000-08:00

Nancy,

This morning I was caught completely by surprise by a box on my desk and did
not immediately recognize the name. It didn't take me long to figure out
that it was from you. I see a number of care packages sent to our unit but
I couldn't believe how much personal thought was put into it. It brought
incredible joy to me and definitely made my day.

I want to thank you for the package you sent me and the packages that you've
[and your group] sent to others. You are truly making a difference and it does not go
unnoticed or unappreciated.

Thanks again,

Matt C.
_______________________________

Goodies Arriving! and THANKS from Dave Shaw & soldiers

2008-12-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

Hello Auntie Nan,

I just wanted to say thank you so much for having some folks send things to us!!! We have so much coming in and that wonderful lady that said she sent I DON'T KNOW HOW MANY POUNDS!! please tell her I got them*. And the mail guys were not very happy with me to say the least. But guess what? I too am a mail guy, so they can just deal with it!!! I already dispersed all of the boxes that I got. I hate to get off of here so quickly and send such a short email, but I have to go take a shower and go to bed. Up early and at the missions!!!

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I just love giving all of these things to my guys. I feel a bit guilty because they all thank me and all I do is pass the goods on that you sent to me!! Seems like I get all the credit for all of your hard work! The bad part is that I know many of the guys won't write. So many literally don't have time or they would much rather call home or write their loved ones as I'm sure you understand. But please know that when I pass out the goods, they get very happy and it's all because of you and the great supporters that you have sending goodies over.

May the Lord bless you for your kindness!!
Your favorite Soldier!!
Dave~

[*note from Nancy: one "regular" helper, Donna, collected 250 pounds of candy!]
-----------

Here's a picture from Cassie and Hannah in junior girl scout troop 4356. They donated 15 stockings to the wounded soldiers.
_______________________________

Troops ready to be "adopted" - College gear & music wanted for Christmas!

2008-11-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

Over 200 new soldiers names were given to me this week. This is the 716th MP.
Note: Their APO address has 5 digits. If I gave you only 4, please contact me.

Here's something new I'll try!

I just received a list of soldiers along with their interests. You can pick a soldier from the list below! Choose a number still in black. (First come, first serve of course!) I'm looking for year-long "adoptions" but also Christmas gift only volunteers. Let me know which you might be interested in. There are over 100 soldiers available for "adoption". This particular unit has just a few months left.

If any of you want to purchase some of the items listed below, my contact will accept them, wrap them, and deliver them to the designated soldier for Christmas! A variety of college t-shirts would be a great start! Music, movies, magazines, and perfume are also high on the list! Time is running out for Christmas mailings!

BMX Biking / UFC / Heavy Metal
Games/Billiards(plays Pool)
Karaoke, Ohio State Football, XBOX first shooter games
Muscle cars, Muscle magazines
Punk/ Heavy Metal Music
hip hop music
NFLCollege Football
loves to cook/picture frames or album
Nascar
(female) perfume/travel magazines
football/ picture frames/ phone cards/plays guitar
(female) pedicure stuff/ magazines/ newlywed
Golfs
football/weightlifting
football
likes to build things out of scrap/ loves to fish
(female) University Kentucky, Sweets, WWE, Country Music
music rap/country
Football / Basket Ball
Gaming magazines, World of Warcraft
fishing pole/ anything outdoor
College Sports, Fishing, Philadelphia Eagles
Computer Games
tuner car magazines, stock market, real estate
(female) Beauty Items, Photography, Sponge Bob
WWE/FOOTBALL
Anything UT Vols
Basketball
old movie with Danny kaye in them
4-Wheeling / Off Road
Memphis Sports, soul music,
mafia movies, cowboy hats, vokswagon magazines
football/ California themed items/ Golf
weightlifting/ learning English as a Second Language/ anything to do with aviation
Motorcycles
UFC / Sports
Boxing/poker
weightlifting/ poker
Christian music;
Anything to do with computers
MICHIGAN STATE graduate/ college football fan
Ohio state fan
Comedies/ perfume/ pajamas
Movies (Top Gun)
Movies (Top Gun)
perfume/pajamas
Penn state graduate basketball!
Perfume/ pajamas (she's about 6'1)
Basketball, comedies, from California
"Crimson Tide" Alabama gear
OHIO STATE college football fan
(our chaplain) Kentucky anything, used to be in the Old guard
Ohio state / Penn State fan
Tennessee fan; likes junk food; (silly- wants santa suit)
Tennessee fan; loves to dip tobacco;

****As a whole, they would like the show "Man vs. Wild" with Bear Grills so they can watch it since it's not a show they get here.

If you would be interested in sponsoring someone for his or her year-long deployment, send me an email: nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Of course, you can sign up to just help for Christmas too!

_______________________________

More help for Santa requested! 716th MP

2008-11-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

Another new unit in Iraq has requested our help with Christmas cheer: The 716 Military Police. Since they too can get PRIORITY MAIL quickly, there's hope to get them some goodies there in time! In fact, early enough to enjoy for the week before Christmas! There are 79 soldiers here. My contact wants at least to get the young/junior enlisted, first deployment, etc. troops some cheer.

They have no decorations so let's see what we can send them.

Filled Christmas Stockings
Christmas Lights
Tree, and ornaments
Cards (from you to them)
Decorations of any kind
Baked goods (store bought)
Candy Canes
Candy
Fake Snow
Inflatable Snowman
Fun stuff!

Dollar stores may be a great asset here. It would be nice if they receive decorations ASAP so they can enjoy them longer.

Note: Homemade baked goods are generally not allowed.

BAD NEWS: It's been a very lean year for many people as we all know, and it has really shown up here. Offers to help the troops this Christmas are down about 75%! The military families are feeling the pinch too. If you want to even just send some Christmas cards, cookies, or candy canes, I can tell you the troops will be ever so appreciative!

GOOD NEWS: PRIORITY MAIL has been reaching some of these Baghdad units in only 10 days! That's AMAZING! So, while we should still try for the 1st week of December, we may get by with shipping the 2nd week! I just don't know how crazy the Christmas rush will get. Now we have time for last minute shopping over Thanksgiving weekend!

Also, if you see fun New Years Eve decorations or goodies, we can send them too! That would give you another week to mail.

_______________________________

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS FOR THE TROOPS - 2008

2008-11-19T15:06:00.000-08:00

It is very exciting to be sponsoring the Christmas stocking project again this year! It was a big success last year at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) where volunteers handed them out to the newly wounded troops arriving at this US Army hospital in Germany. The soldiers receiving them in Iraq were thrilled too!

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS UPDATE

WOUNDED: We are all set with the 500 asked for by LRMC IF everyone who pledge stockings sends them.

SOLDIERS IN IRAQ: Also I'm trying to get as many as I can to our troops out in the field. I've had TWO new units join me this week, so I have over 200 Christmas stockings wanted! As I have to keep track of the number going to the different locations, please ask me for the addresses. I do not post that info online. Do not forward addresses I give you to others. If friends want to help have them email me.

For suggestions on what to send, see my blog post on November 3rd about Christmas Stockings to the Wounded Warriors :

LRMC Wounded Warriors Ministry - 500 Christmas Stockings wanted

MAILING DATES: From here on out you must use PRIORITY MAIL!

Packages should be sent out this week or next. Prior to Thanksgiving is usually my recommendation, and it's later this year than last. Mail to Germany and some troops in Iraq takes less time than Afghanistan, so for them the first week of December should be good, again, IF you use PRIORITY MAIL at the US post office.

CUSTOMS FORM: You will need to complete a Customs Declaration form. When listing items on the Customs form it can be a big red flag for thieves. That's always a concern. I never list "Christmas stockings". I write "socks". Of course, the candy and other details you have to list are tempting, but we gotta' do it! I also don't list the name of any candy, magazines, nor dvd titles. Use your imagination don't be too descriptive.
Anything liquid (shampoo, etc.) must be sealed in a plastic Ziploc-style bag.

Safety for the troops is a concern at the other end. Be sure to include a note INSIDE the box with your full name and address, and indicate that you are participating in the "Aunt Nancy USA Christmas project".

Boxes should be very neat and professional. No cute stickers or decorations. Use 2" wide tape on all edges. If the "TO" or "FROM" addresses are not absolutely readable the package may get discarded. Security reasons again.

FREE BOXES: Get your free boxes from the Post Office ASAP -- they often run out this time of year! FLAT RATE boxes have almost always saved me about half the shipping costs. Make sure you get the FLAT RATE Priority Mail boxes for APO mailing! There is a $2 mailing discount! Look for the "America Supports You" logo on the box and/or ASK for help at the post office. You can also order online. Here's what you can use. #3 is best so try to get your boxes ahead of time.

PRIORITY MAIL Box from the USPS - will get there quicker, but can be costly
FLAT RATE Priority Mail - one price for up to 20 lbs!! Usually saves me HALF the cost. ($9.80) 2 sizes/shapes available.
APO BOXES (Army Post Office) Large/Priority Mail box - is also FLAT RATE plus a $2.00 discount off of that. ($10.95 instead of $12.95) 12x12x5.5"

http://www.usps.com/prices/priority-mail-prices.htm

See the following

“This is the first time the Postal Service has offered a special price for our armed forces serving overseas,” said Postmaster General John Potter. “We’re proud that family and friends will be able to use this new larger-sized box to send much appreciated packages from home to our dedicated troops overseas.”

The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box (12" x 12" x 5 ½" or 800 cubic inches) will be available in Post Offices nationwide, but customers can order them at usps APO boxes or by calling 800-610-8734. Some of the new boxes are co-branded with the logo of America Supports You, which is a Department of Defense program that connects citizens offering support to the military and their families.

_______________________________

New unit arriving in Baghdad: 8th Military Police

2008-11-17T14:32:00.000-08:00

The last of the 18th MP BDE we have been sponsoring are leaving Iraq, and being replaced by the 8th Military Police BDE. Since they will be right at the Baghdad International Airport, mail will arrive quickly, but even with PRIORITY MAIL packages should be mailed the first week of December. They could get there in as little as 10 days, we can't be sure with the Christmas rush. But "Better Late Than Never "certainly applies here!!!

If you have waited to send some Christmas stockings or cards, this is your opportunity!

I have now received 107 individual names, but may not get them assigned to individuals in time for Christmas. I'm attempting to get that many Christmas stockings to their Chaplain for passing out at their Christmas Eve Candlelight Services.

Please join in - cards, Christmas stockings, packages, whatever!

Email me for addresses, I do not post them online. Do NOT use contacts from last year.

_______________________________

Sending cards to "Any Soldier" is NOT acceptable

2008-11-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

Once again this year, there is an email circulating around the internet asking people to send an extra Christmas card or two to "Any Soldier", or "Recovering Soldier" at Walter Reed Hospital. The Army has warned of this mis-informed goal. You do not know where it actually started. While it is a noble idea, tens of thousands of Christmas cards have to be opened and inspected for security reasons, and it just can't be done by the hospitals. Thousands get thrown away.

Here's a link for other ways Walter Reed Army Hospital can use help: http://www.wramc.army.mil/support/Pages/default.aspx

I have names of troops you can send your cards to if you would like to do so.

_______________________________

Special Soldiers Fun Requests - time to play Santa

2008-11-10T07:49:00.001-08:00

OK, folks, here's some special requests from Iraq. I told him I thought we might be able to do something! Who can help?

Dear Auntie Nan,

Yes I do have another request. One that my chaplain asked about as well. I would like to request, more than anything, prayer; not only for our Soldiers, but also for our families back home. They too go through a very rough time during this deployment. I truly believe that the little children have it the worst. They just can't understand why "Daddy" or in some cases, "Mommy" isn't coming home for quite a while. So honestly, prayer would be the biggest request.

Thank you for your time. I wouldn't mind passing out cards if you happen to send some our way. I do however have a pretty serious request from a Soldier. It's for some video games. I do not play video games (believe me, I am one of the very very few when it comes to Soldiers and video games), but I do understand that they are fairly expensive. He gave me the names of two games that he was hoping to have for his section. I told him that I would certainly ask, but I made no promises. Please don't feel as though you have to get either one of these or even ask your folks to get them. I know that he told me that they are for play station II game system. Now that is all I know about the games.

The names of the games are:

Madden 09

Metal Gear IV
Need for Speed/Undercover,

WWE Smack Down vs. Raw 2008,

Call of Duty: World at War Final Fronts and finally

Secret Service Quantum of Solace.

I do happen to have one other great suggestion. We have about 15 bags of whole-bean coffee. I was hoping that someone may have a hand operated coffee grinder they would be willing to ship over here to us. I know my guys would love to have some of this fresh ground coffee, if only I had something like that. Again, I do not grind my own coffee. I'm the cheap skate. I buy Folgers already ground. So if this request is too expensive, please, I beg you please disregard. I have no intentions of taking advantage of your wonderful support.

Also, I have heard of some folks looking for different kinds of deodorant, shampoo, decent razors, shave gel, little things, etc. etc.

Times here are getting a bit more exciting. We have had a decent surge in activity here the last few days or even a week or so. I'm only hope and pray that our time here drags on from boredom and not from always going to memorials and hospitals with our Soldiers hurt or worse yet dead.

Right now, we are doing ok in my unit. My Soldiers are all doing very well. You have a very blessed week and thank you for listening to my rambling.

Your favorite Soldier (as far as I'm concerned)
D.~

Here are more suggestions:
NO home-made food.
NO Batteries as they have "enough to light up Baghdad" now!
NO used items
Chocolate is very much desired (until about February) - store bought only.

_______________________________

Flag needed for soldiers

2008-11-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

Remember all of our Veterans this Tuesday, November 11th.
They may be shy about it, but when someone THANKS them it really means a lot.
So, consider calling your friend, Father, whomever. Express your appreciation.

Also, hard as it is to believe, I have one soldier asking for a full-size flag or two for his unit in Iraq.
Anyone want to donate a new one? This could be a perfect project for a Scout or veterans group.

_______________________________

LRMC Wounded Warriors Ministry - 500 Christmas Stockings wanted

2008-11-03T21:19:00.000-08:00

The Chaplains at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) run the "Wounded Warriors Ministry". Soldiers are often medevac'd to LRMC directly after getting injured. These are the more seriously hurt or ill. They often arrive only in a hospital gown. The Ministry provides items of comfort to "fill holes" until their personal belongings catch up with them.

Last year, with your help, 1,000 Christmas stockings were sent and passed out to the troops arriving at this US Army Hospital in Germany. This year they only need 500, but so far participation has been very low. I hope you can help!

Let me know if you can make and send a couple or motivate your friends and co-workers to contribute a larger number, it will be greatly appreciated!

This is a picture of some of your stockings arriving in Germany last November.

Groups wanting to prepare large numbers of cards should make them Get-Well cards. The hospital receives thousands of Christmas cards this time of year, and can't use all of what they get. If you send a bunch, do not seal the individual cards. Use the large USPS Mili-pacs envelopes to mail several cards at a time. Most post offices do not stock these, but they can be ordered online easily. DO NOT SEND ANYTHING DIRECTLY TO THE HOSPITAL, or anything addressed to "Any Soldier" etc!

These young troops really enjoy hand-held electronic games. Teen youth groups could be encouraged to collect some, or the iPod shuffles and iTunes cards. Do not put them in the stockings -- put them in an envelope inside the same box as the stockings.

Here's a recent note from my contact at LRMC -- (contacts change each year)
"As for what I need, just your continued support of the WWMC. We couldn't operate without donors! I can tell you that from last year, the wounded warriors loved taking a stocking. Some had to be persuaded, but everyone left with a smile on their face!"

Some suggested items for the Christmas stockings for the wounded:
CANDY! Chocolate, Twizzlers, M&Ms, whatever! Lots of it!
Find fun holiday versions of the goodies -- those are especially welcome in stockings.
Small candy canes - they don't break as much in shipping.
Small cans of chips and cookies, chewing gum, beef jerkey
Fun stuff from local drug stores - small novelties, decorations
Girl Scout Cookies are LOVED!
Healthy snack bars
"Little Debbie"-type treats
A Get Well card or a Christmas card may be inserted into the stocking.
Breath-mint strips
Small hand-held mirrors
Nail clippers
Travel size Gold Bond Powder
Travel size shower gel
*Phone cards – Domestic only with no expiration date
*iTunes Cards
*iPod Shuffles
*Hand-held electronic gamesDVDs (no extreme violence or nudity – no VHS tapes)
*These last items should NOT be put in the Christmas stockings; keep them separate.

The younger generation has many of the newer electronic gadgets. They no longer need music CDs, nor AAA batteries, for instance! Now they mostly download music from the internet. It's tough keeping up with them!

Some veterans have told me that the troops would rather receive sports teams news, caps, pictures, or shirts, than shampoo any day!

Below is a list of items NOT needed.

Check it out because there are some items on it I previously suggested some of you should send. I'll update it if I get new info. This list came from Landstuhl.

Wounded Warrior Ministry Center
Pastoral Services Division
Landstuhl Regional Medical Center

ITEMS NOT NEEDED AT THIS TIME

As of this time we have no need for anything not on the current list (updated regularly). Thank you for your generosity. Please DO NOT send the following:

No International phone cards, or phone cards that have an expiration date
NO CDs, Video tapes
No AA or AAA nor any size batteries
No magazines, books, puzzles, sudoko games
No Books, Playing cards
No Bar soap, large and hotel size
No Bubble bath, salts
No Hair conditioner
No Large toothpaste
No Toothbrushes
No Combs
No Lip Balm/Chapstick
No Make-up and facial creams, nail polish, etc. including samples
No Hair pins and bands
No Q-tips
No Large economy size toiletries
No Small hotel size toiletries
No Lap blankets/double, queen or king size blankets
No Women’s underwear
No Feminine products
No Men’s white or color briefs
No Pencils (mechanical pencils okay), erasers and pencil sharpeners
No Writing paper
No Blank greeting cards
No Signed holiday cards (Christmas, Valentines, Easter, etc.) Please only send a very few – we receive thousands more than the number of patients that come in all year and cannot possibly distribute them all.
No Over the counter medications/any medications
No Coffee mugs
No Candles, matches, lighters
No Canned food
No Any knitted items
No used items and please,
No Used clothing – or clothing with stains or holes or broken zippers, missing buttons, etc.

_______________________________

Send your extra Halloween candy to the Troops!

2008-10-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

If you have a bunch of left over Halloween candy consider sending it to the troops! They love it, and they often use it to pass along to the grateful children in Iraq and Afghanistan!

Make it a family, office, or Scout project!
And don't worry, the troops prefer melted chocolate to NO chocolate!

Candy is quite heavy, so in this case if often pays to use the FLAT RATE Priority Mail boxes. You pay one price regardless of weight. (about $8 to $10 a box). Get some boxes first from the post office and compare costs. There's really no hurry now so if parcel post works out cheaper use that. It will depend on how much you mail. The USPS offers a $2 discount on some Priority Mail boxes to Army Post Offices (APO) so make sure you get the right ones!

Another option: separate the candy and use any non-Halloween looking treats to fill up some Christmas stockings for the troops! These should be mailed by Thanksgiving.

Whenever you send something, be sure to let the troops know you received their name from "Aunt Nancy" at "Aunt Nancy USA".

Email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com and I'll tell you were to send it!

Be sure to include a note with your name and address, indicating you have checked the candy. No homebaked nor homemade food should be sent. Store bought only, in original packaging.

_______________________________

2008 Christmas Projects - start NOW!

2008-10-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year already!

Thanksgiving cards should go out by the end of October, packages now.

MOST CHRISTMAS PACKAGES TO IRAQ SHOULD BE MAILED THE WEEK BEFORE THANKSGIVING! You can get an extra week using Priority Mail, which I always recommend anyway!

I am getting a couple of new units in Afghanistan, and because mail there is MUCH slower than Iraq, I recommend earlier if possible. PRIORITY MAIL helps.

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS PROJECTS: Yesterday I received an email from Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany (LRMC), and they would appreciate our participation again. The great news is: they only need about 500 this year as incoming wounded numbers are WAY down! (Last year we sent 1,000.) They do NOT want Christmas cards -- they get thousands. The do need and accept get-well cards.

They are still looking for help with t-shirts, slippers, and other necessary items for the wounded if you want to help that way. If you want to help in this year-long project, ask me.

I'll also be looking for Christmas stockings for the Afghanistan troops. Their facilities are quite bare, they need hygiene items as well as fun stuff (the typical stocking stuffers: candy, cookies, chips, beef jerky, & other goodies, DVDs, etc). We can also send tins of cookies. Everything will be collected by their chaplain and distributed at Christmas services.

If you want to participate, send me an email with the request in the SUBJECT LINE.
Example:
LRMC stockings for wounded troops,
Afghanistan troop stockings,
Afghanistan cookie tins,
or
Adopt-a-Soldier (either just for the holidays, or all year)

I do NOT publish addresses on this blog. You must email your request to me.

I suggest the classic red & white stockings that are approximately 20" x 9". You can purchase them for as little as 99 cents at the local dollar stores. But you can use whatever size and color you'd like. Even make your own.

Candy and other fun holiday-themed goodies and "stuff" from the drug stores, Target, grocery stores, etc., are good fillers. Small candy canes tend not to break like the full-size ones you might hang on a tree. They no longer want batteries nor music CDs. The do want domestic phone cards (withOUT expiration dates), iTune cards, and would LOVE iPod shuffles (for their downloaded music). Those last few are an awesome addition, but of course would add a lot of cost. Do whatever you can.

Please insert a note or Christmas card in your stockings, or at least the shipping box, saying you are participating in

"The Aunt Nancy USA Holiday Project www.auntnancyusa.com"

Then you might also include your family or group name & photo, and your own email or snail-mail address. You could also include a return envelope with your address and a blank notecard.

Make your packages very neat. If the addresses "TO" or "FROM" are not clear the packages get tossed out. Don't put "cute" stuff on the outside of the box. Make the box look professional. Use 2" tape on ALL edges. No string. When reusing a box from something else, be sure to black out any bar codes or previous mailing addresses.

Groups such as Scout packs can often get $100 donations from stores like Target. Many offer help for community groups. It's worth asking!

As always, I will do my best to try to keep up with all the emails this time of year. In the past I manage to lose or miss several of you (especially last year after the "Family Fun" article). This project is just me and my trusty laptop, no group of helpers. There are still about 25 people on my waiting-to-adopt-a-soldier list.

Email me at: Nancy@auntnancyusa.com

More mailing deadline info:
Link to United States Postal Service Military Holiday Shipping dates: USPS Dates

MORE GOOD NEWS:

The United States Postal Service (USPS) Priority Mail, Large, Flat Rate Box to APO/FPO addresses receives $2 reduction!

Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Boxes shipped to an APO/FPO destination receive a $2 reduction. Either version of the large box — with or without the America Supports You logo — can receive the reduced price at retail or online. The smaller regular flat-rate boxes are not eligible for the military price reduction.

Be sure to check you get the right box and rate from the post office! The boxes are free!

Get your boxes, and Customs Declaration forms, early. Having the boxes may help you figure out how much you want to stuff the stockings.

Many of last year's tips still apply. Click on "Mailing tips" or "Christmas mailings" under GROUP TOPICS on the left for more details.
_______________________________

715th Military Police going to Afghanistan

2008-09-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

This week I have received a few requests to support soldiers going to Afghanistan. I have begun to pass them along to people on my waiting list. Hopefully I'll get a good size group, as I have about 30 people in line to support the troops.

Afghanistan conditions are not very good, similar to the early months in Iraq. Mail is much slower too. The basics may be in high demand. I'll let you know more as I find out.

Help Needed

2008-09-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Here is something some of you may be able to help with. This is a large, non-profit organization (not a "one woman project" like mine). Other organizations are listed on the left.

DO YOU NEED A TAX WRITE OFF FOR 2008?
PLEASE CONSIDER A GIFT TO FORGOTTEN SOLDIERS OUTREACH, INC.

With Patriots Day and Veterans Day just around the corner we have found ourselves reviewing the status of our operations and warehouse situation. We have an abundant inventory of supplies to place in care packages but not the necessary funds that would enable us to send out even a minimum of packages as well as cover our operating expenses. In addition, we are receiving more names to add to our list of recipients. As you know, we continue to support those who are currently deployed, many on their 4th, 5th and 6th deployment. Our commitment is to support them with encouragement by sending them our “we care” packages on a monthly basis for as long as they are deployed. For sure, our list of recipients does not get shorter.

With it being a hard economy, an active hurricane season and a political year, we are feeling the impact and it has put us in an uncomfortable situation in that we are desperate for funds. As our organization grows each month, so does the need for funds for shipping and operation expenses. Did you know that we need approximately $10,000.00 per month? Would you carefully consider underwriting costs for us and/or Sponsoring a Monthly Packing Event? Even with all the obstacles, we do not feel our U.S. servicemen and women who are putting their lives in harms way should suffer from the shortage. Please help us let them know that they are not forgotten.

Donations are tax deductible, in accordance to the Internal Revenue Tax Code 501(c)(3) and FSO is also registered with the State of Florida in accordance with the Solicitation Contribution Acts. Monetary contributions can be made directly to us using PayPal located on our website or mailed to us at:

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Inc.
9770 S. Military Trail, Suite B7-249
Boynton Beach, Florida 33436
or
Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Inc.
P.O. Box 347
Islamorada, Florida 33036

We thank you in advance for your consideration in joining our efforts.

With kindest regards,

Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar
Executive Director and Founder

"Don't Forget the Soldiers"
www.forgottensoldiers.org

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Inc. is a national 501(c) tax exempt corporation
Registered with the State of Florida (#: CH22627).

Federal Identification Number: 51-0493205
Florida State Registration #: CH22627

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach is a member of America Supports You, an ongoing, nationwide program organized by the Department of Defense to showcase Americans’ support for the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families.

---------------------------------

59th and 18th Military Police

2008-08-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

The 59th MP unit we have been sponsoring is scheduled to re-deploy out of Iraq and return to Ft. Carson in September. Their Army Post Office (APO) box there has already closed. They cannot receive any more mail there.

It is often typical that those units do close their post office boxes up to a month ahead of redeployment. So, keep that in mind.

For example, the 18th Military Police are scheduled to leave Baghdad in November. This would be a great time to get a last card or gift out to your soldiers in that unit.

_____________________

Soon To Be Gone: WWII veterans - A Independence Day Tribute/Reminder

2008-07-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

This Captain, an Army doctor, deserves a medal himself for putting this together.

SOON TO BE GONE

By A MILITARY DOCTOR

I am a doctor specializing in the Emergency Departments of the only two military Level One-Trauma Centers, both in San Antonio , TX and they care for civilian Emergencies as well as military personnel. San Antonio has the largest military retiree population in the world living here. As a military doctor, I work long hours and the pay is less than glamorous. One tends to become jaded by the long hours, lack of sleep, food, family contact and the endless parade of human suffering passing before you. The arrival of another ambulance does not mean more pay, only more work.
Most often, it is a victim from a motor vehicle crash.

Often it is a person of dubious character who has been shot or stabbed. With our large military retiree population, it is often a nursing home patient. Even with my enlisted service and minimal combat experience in Panama , I have caught myself groaning when the ambulance brought in yet another sick, elderly person from one of the local retirement centers that cater to military retirees. I had not stopped to think of what citizens of this age group represented.

I saw 'Saving Private Ryan.' I was touched deeply. Not so much by the carnage, but by the sacrifices of so many. I was touched most by the scene of the elderly survivor at the graveside, asking his wife if he'd been a good man. I realized that I had seen these same men and women coming through my Emergency Dept. and had not realized what magnificent sacrifices they had made. The things they did for me and everyone else that has lived on this planet since the end of that conflict are priceless.

Situation permitting, I now try to ask my patients about their experiences. They would never bring up the subject without the inquiry. I have been privileged to an amazing array of experiences, recounted in the brief minutes allowed in an Emergency Dept. encounter. These experiences have revealed the incredible individuals I have had the honor of serving in a medical capacity, many on their last admission to the hospital.

There was a frail, elderly woman who reassured my young enlisted medic, trying to start an IV line in her arm. She remained calm and poised, despite her illness and the multiple needle-sticks into her fragile veins. She was what we call a 'hard stick.' As the medic made another attempt, I noticed a number tattooed across her forearm. I touched it with one finger and looked into her eyes. She simply said, ' Auschwitz .' Many of later generations would have loudly and openly berated the young medic in his many attempts. How different was the response from this person who'd seen unspeakable suffering.

Also, there was this long retired Colonel, who as a young officer had parachuted from his burning plane over a Pacific Island held by the Japanese. Now an octogenarian, he had a minor cut on his head from a fall at his home where he lived alone. His CT scan and suturing had been delayed until after midnight by the usual parade of high priority ambulance patients. Still spry for his age, he asked to use the phone to call a taxi, to take him home, then he realized his ambulance had brought him without his wallet. He asked if he could use the phone to make a long distance call to his daughter who lived 7 miles away. With great pride we told him that he could not, as he'd done enough for his country and the least we could do was get him a taxi home, even if we had to pay for it ourselves. My only regret was that my shift wouldn't end for several hours, and I couldn't drive him myself.

I was there the night M/Sgt. Roy Benavidez came through the Emergency Dept. for the last time. He was very sick. I was not the doctor taking care of him, but I walked to his bedside and took his hand. I said nothing. He was so sick, he didn't know I was there. I'd read his Congressional Medal of Honor citation and wanted to shake his hand. He died a few days later.

The gentleman who served with Merrill's Marauders,

the survivor of the Bataan Death March,

the survivor of Omaha Beach ,

the 101 year old World War I veteran.

The former POW held in frozen North Korea ,

The former Special Forces medic - now with non-operable liver cancer,

the former Viet Nam Corps Commander.

I remember these citizens.

I may still groan when yet another ambulance comes in, but now I am much more aware of what an honor it is to serve these particular men and women.

I have seen a Congress who would turn their back on these individuals who've sacrificed so much to protect our liberty. I see later generations that seem to be totally engrossed in abusing these same liberties, won with such sacrifice.

_____________________

Note from Nancy: My own Father is a WWII vet (see his photo in the bottom left corner of this Blog). This project is in tribute to him and all others who have served our county.

_____________________

THANKS! to YOU! from the 972 MP Company

2008-06-13T00:02:00.000-07:00

The 972 Military Police Company is leaving Iraq this month. Many of you adopted soldiers in this unit, and, a number of families and Girl Scout troops went the extra mile to collect, pack, and ship items for the parents and children in Baghdad.

Steve B., my "nephew", sent me a most wonderful THANK YOU to pass along to all of you. I'll quote it below. Though we were perfect strangers just a few months ago, he and I have become quite close via email as his Memorial Day note will show.

To all of you, this note is in tribute:

AUNTIE!!!
So good to hear from you. Thanks for the good wishes. I do ask
that everyone at some point in the day stop and reflect on the lives
that have been so bravely and courageously lost ensuring that our
freedom remains in tact. As it says "Let Freedom Ring"!!
AN, I am thankful for all that you have done for not only my
unit but the Armed Forces in general with your support. I am truly
blessed that I had this opportunity to meet you, someday in person I
hope, and wish you the best.
My unit will be out of theater on July 4th so no need for any good will here.
Our replacements are due in in the next couple of weeks and then it will be
time to say goodbye to many of our Iraqi friends that we assisted here.
I cannot discuss our mission here, it was however very successful. That will
be truly overshadowed by the humanitarian assistance that we supplied,
on your supporters behalf, daily. I saw first hand the elation and happiness
that many people experienced when we provided them the items that you
sent to us. Beanie babies, clothes, children vitamins, soaps, pens pencils,
the list goes on and on. A difference was made here, make no mistake about
that and YOU played a large role in that success.
So Auntie, GOD BLESS You on this Memorial Day as you will forever be part of my memory....

God Bless America

Love your nephew with the dreamy blue eyes,

Steve

------------------

Steve also arranged for a beautiful Certificate of Thanks to be sent to me. I treasure it on all your behalf. (You may "click" on any photo to enlarge it.)

________________

K9 Unit address issue

2008-06-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

If you are corresponding with a soldier in the K9 Unit I want to let you know that two people have had their packages returned. I'm checking on that. The correct Unit number is: 6260.

Meanwhile, I suggest just sending a card or letter rather than a package.

______________________________

Departing Troops

2008-06-03T23:38:00.000-07:00

As a quick reference here I am posting a summary of the troops who are no longer "in theater" and are back in home base. Be sure to check often if you are not sure about your soldier or sailor. Remember also to review the status of the "back-up name" given to you for your Customs Forms. In the left column, under "Grouped Topics", you may find several postings for your soldier or sailors' unit with more specific information.

For those of you with soldiers still in Iraq: It's time to send out those 4th of July packages! A card at least, although some fun "party" decorations would add to their cheer!

Leaving in May and June 2008:

1LT Fukuzawa & unit
720 MP
USS CARNEY returned to home port in Florida on June 4th
972MP, FOB Freedom

Left Iraq April 2008:

D COMPANY, 1-181 INF BN

Back home in February and March 2008:

CAMP LIBERTY soldiers of A CO, 1-64 AR, UNIT #43435
MNC-I PAO, CAMP VICTORY
K-9 Unit: SGT James Hazelton & SGT Stone. I did receive some replacement names.
Tom Reed, CPT

January 2008 departures:

293 Military Police
Sean Burke & unit

December 2007 departures:

97th MPs
FOB Freedom (Note: a 2nd group stationed here -- the 972MP -- came in to me in early 2008, and are leaving in June 2008)

October 2007:

A Company & SFC Jesse Rada, 2d BSTB, 10th MTN Div, Unit # 43045, are leaving Iraq
89th MP departed Baghdad (they alternate with the 18th Military Police, who are now in Iraq through October, 2008)

August 2007:

B Company & SGT Paul Stovall, 3-144 INF. 2nd PLT., Camp Delta (Scania), left Iraq

----------------------------------

Future:

September 2008:

59th Military Police

October 2008:

18th Military Police

December 2008:

101 ABN Div, COB Speicher

March 2009:

1-27 IN (From Hawaii)

--------------------------------

BUZZ WORDS/ACRONYMS:
MP = Military Police
APO = Army Post Office
FOB = Forward Operating Base

--------------------------------

Memorial Day thoughts - Michigan casualties

2008-05-25T22:28:00.000-07:00

May each of you enjoy this Memorial Day. Hopefully, you'll be able to attend a parade or tribute to our American troops. PBS broadcast our National Memorial Day Concert in Washington, DC. It's touching as you might expect.

A friend of mine sent me this list of Michigan casualties for the past year, which he read at a Memorial today in Pleasant Ridge. I've decided to post these names here as my own tribute.

MICHIGAN SOLDIERS KILLED IN IRAQ OR AFGHANISTAN 2007 to date

Marine Lance Corporal Luis J. Castillo, of Lawton

Army Specialist Brandon Stout, of Kent City

Marine Corporal Mark D. Kidd, of Milford

Marine Private First Class Tarryl Hill, of Shelby Twp

Army Private First Class Justin T. Paton, of Alanson

Marine Private First Class Brett Witteveen, of Shelby

Army Sergeant Douglas Stone, of Milford

Army Private First Class James L. Arnold, of Mattawan

Army Private First Class William Davis, of Grand Rapids

Army Sergeant Curtis E. Glawson, of Detroit

Navy Petty Officer 2^nd Class Joseph C. Schwedler,

of Crystal Falls

Army Private First Class Levi K. Hoover, of Midland

Army Sergeant Todd A. Singleton, of Muskegon

Army Medic Garrett Knoll, of Bad Axe

Army Private First Class Brian A. Botello, of Muskegon

Army Specialist Robert Dixon, of Gladwin

Army Private First Class Daniel Courneya, of Nashville

Army Sergeant Thomas G. Wright, of Holly

Army Sergeant Justin D. Wisniewski, of Standish

Army Private First Class Casey P. Zylman, of Coleman

Army Private First Class Joshua D. Brown,

of Dearborn Heights

Army Sergeant Matthey Soper, of Jackson

Army Sergeant Allen A. Greka, of Alpena

Army Private First Class Christopher D. Kube,

of Shelby Township

Army Sergeant James S. Collins, Jr., of Rochester Hills

Army Sergeant First Class Daniel E. Scheibner,

of Norton Shores

Army Specialist Todd Motley, of Clare

Staff Sergeant Donald L. Munn, II, of St. Clair Shores

Army Private First Class Casey P. Mason, of Lake

Army Corporal Jason Lee, of Fruitport

Army Sergeant Peter C. Neesley,

of Grosse Pointe Farms

Air Force Senior Airman Jason Plite, of Lansing

Air Force Technical Sergeant Howard A. Walters,

of Port Huron

Army Sergeant Robert P. Kassin, of Flint

Army Private Joseph Blake, of Livonia

Army Private First Class Joseph A. Miracle, of Ortonville

Army Private First Class Jordan Goode, of Kalamazoo

Sergeant First Class Matthew D. Blaskowski,

of Cheboygan

Marine Sergeant Phillip Bocks, of Troy

Army Specialist Joe Lancour, of Swartz Creek

Army Private Antione V. Robinson, of Detroit

_______________________________

Troop Updates - many changes

2008-04-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

The Troops we are supporting in "D COMPANY, 1-181 INF BN", are leaving Iraq this month. No further mail should be sent.

1LT Fukuzawa and his unit will be leaving Iraq in June.

The sailors on the USS CARNEY will be cruising back into their home port in Florida in June. I think they may be heading back out to sea a month later.

My notes say the CAMP LIBERTY soldiers of A CO, 1-64 AR, UNIT #43435, are going home.

Also: MNC-I PAO, CAMP VICTORY, troops are back at home base now, I believe.

In mid-June, our troops at FOB FREEDOM, the 972 MILITARY POLICE COMPANY, will also be going home. Cheerful notes from their sponsors would be nice as they endure their last 2 months.

Since the 720 MILITARY POLICE are returning to home base next month, their mail should stop soon AND if you were given a 720 APO address as the "back-up" name for your Customs Declaration form, you should no longer use it. I can assign another.

If you have different re-deployment dates for the soldier unit you are corresponding with, please send me a correction.

----------------------------

Our D Company troops are re-deploying

2008-04-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Today I received word that our D Company troops, 1-181 Inf BN, are also departing from Iraq soon. No further mail should be sent.

___________________

The 720th MP is leaving soon

2008-04-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that the soldiers we are supporting in the 720th Military Police will be leaving Iraq in a little over a month. It would be great to get them all one more card or letter!

I'll really miss those "Notes From Drew" - CSM Drew Craig!

If you would like a replacement soldier, let me know. I'm expecting to get a list of the troops coming in after the 720th.

------------------------------------------------

USS Carney receives award

2008-04-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Our sailors on the USS Carney just received this award for their ship! Congrats fellows!

The Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund was established in 1917 by the Tribune Association in Brooklyn, NY after a 13 year old girl named Marjorie Sterrett offered her weekly allowance of 10 cents to help build “a battleship for Uncle Sam.” Marjorie knew her country was on the eve of war and she was aware of the importance of battle readiness, even at age 13. “I read in your paper every morning a lot about preparedness,” Marjorie explained. A fund was started and children from all over New York began to donate their dimes.

Prior to WWII, income from the growing fund was used to award annual cash prizes to turret and gun crews making the highest scores in short-range battle practice, and to submarine crews making the highest scores in torpedo firing. Since then, the Navy has used the fund to promote battle efficiency by its payment to ships which stand first in the intra-type battle efficiency competitions.

Every 4 years, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (4-Star Admiral) selects one CRUDES ship from the Pacific Fleet and one from the Atlantic Fleet to receive the Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award. In 2007, 54 LANTFLT CRUDES ships competed for this award and CARNEY was selected as the Atlantic Fleet recipient. That’s right; CARNEY was the best for 2007 out of all 54 LANTFLT CGs, DDGs & FFGs.

There is no special ribbon or medal for this award, however by instruction COMSECONDFLT is required to present a cash prize to CARNEY on behalf of the CNO at an appropriate ceremony. We’ll let you know when that is. We’re not sure what the amount will be this year, but ships before us have received $25,000 directly into their MWR fund!!!

Congratulations to all CARNEY Warriors past and present who have worked selflessly to make our ship the best she can be!

HOO RAH!

______________________________________

Canine Unit

2008-03-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

SGT James Hazelton is departing and sends his THANKS to all of you who supported him and his canine partners. SGT Stone left last month. I did receive some replacement names and will be passing those along to the people on my waiting list.

_________________________________

The Navy!

2008-02-27T21:47:00.000-08:00

The USS Carney & crew are the newest members of "Aunt Nancy USA" troops! I could use a few new sponsors for some of the guys, just until June. Most get on email daily.

Update March 18: no new names came in, yet. I have a waiting list of about 20. As soon as I receive some new troops I will get them out to you who are waiting.

--------------
The USS Carney is out to sea for 7 months.
Here's the ship's website: http://www.carney.navy.mil/
Click here for some history!

Here's some of what they do for fun:

___________________________________________________

NOTE:
June 4, 2008 -- The USS Carney reached home port in Jacksonville, Florida!

___________________________________________________

General Petreaus AND Aunt Nancy USA

2008-02-20T13:54:00.000-08:00

Here's just one of the many pictures I received today from CSM Drew Craig (720 Military Police) in one of his "Notes from Drew" emails. As always, I forward his emails to those of you who have asked to be on that special distribution. If you enlarge the photo you might be able to read the names on their uniforms and find your soldier.

Some of his other pictures were soldiers in the 720 and 59th MP, with Iraqi police, several with General Petreaus, and hey, THIS note which mentions our program!

From Drew: "Soldiers of the battalion headquarters all got a Valentine's Day gift from a supporter through AuntNancyUSA.com*. These folks that send support packages have no idea how much they improve morale here for our troopers. We are thankful for them, and "thank you" never seems enough to say." [from Nancy: notice all the candy is in sealed plastic bags. A VERY good idea. Sand gets into everything there.]
"As of today, we have 83 days until we turn the mission over to the 793rd MP Battalion, and less than 90 days until we return home to Fort Hood. We're all looking forward to getting home and reuniting with family, but it still seems a long time for us. Everyone remains well and focused on the mission at hand, and we still have much to do before its time to release responsibility to our replacements."

*Note: CSM Craig mistakenly lists my website as AuntNancy.com in his email. Just for the heck of it I typed that in and found someone who is using that site name to make money linking people to sites that sell care packages. The domain owner also has 99 other sites so he must be good at finding ways to make money from people who don't remember or know actual websites they are looking for. Just FYI.

*2nd Note: I replied to CSM Drew Craig about correcting my website name, and the fact that it was fun to be mentioned in the same email as was General Petreaus. Here's Drew's reply:
LOL, you are MORE important to us than General Petreaus. I will make
the correction with those that I write regarding the website, Nancy.
Drew
Gauntlet 7
"Soldiers of the Gauntlet"

______________________________

NEW FLAT-RATE BOX & FIRST EVER MILITARY DISCOUNT

2008-02-15T18:48:00.000-08:00

Postal Service Offers First-Time Military Discount

For New, Large Flat-Rate Box

WASHINGTON, DC — Planning to send a care package to a U.S. military service member serving abroad? Send it after March 3 to take advantage of a new flat-rate box from the U.S. Postal Service that is 50 percent larger and delivered for $10.95 to an APO/FPO address — $2 less than for domestic destinations.

The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box (12" x 12" x 5 ½" or 800 cubic inches) will be available in Post Offices nationwide beginning March 3, but customers can begin ordering them Feb. 20 at usps APO boxes or by calling 800-610-8734. Some of the new boxes are co-branded with the logo of America Supports You, which is a Department of Defense program that connects citizens offering support to the military and their families.

“It’s terrific that the Postal Service continues to think of ways to help Americans support our troops and their families. Postage is always a concern when shipping care packages, and this new flat-rate box means our home front groups and supportive citizens can do more with their resources,” said Allison Barber, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense. “We’re especially pleased that some of the boxes will bear the America Supports You logo reminding our service members that they have our nation’s support.”

The $2 discount is applied when the Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Boxes are shipped to an APO/FPO destination. The two existing flat-rate boxes (11 7/8" x 3 3/8" x 13 5/8" and 11" x 8 ½" x 5 ½"), which currently retail for $8.95 for U.S. addresses, are not available for the military discount. All flat-rate boxes can be used for international shipping.

The new flat-rate boxes will be available in Post Offices starting March 3. The America Supports You branded box will be available online, at select Post Offices near military bases, or by calling 800-610-8734.

Order special boxes here!

Remember to list your items BEFORE sealing the box! (duh, the voice of experience here!) More suggestions are on another "Mailing Tips" blog entry at Christmas time. Look under "Grouped Topics" on the left of the Blog.
Sample Customs Declaration form:

_________________________________

CPT Tom Reed is heading home

2008-02-14T18:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Aunt Nancy
I would like to thank you for sponsoring me. I really appreciate all the support I have been getting. Could you please remove my name from your list, I will be heading home for good at the end of February.
V/r
Tom Reed

CPT EN
TF1636
181 IN FOB EN

_______________________

THANKS! A Special Request for an Injured Soldier

2008-02-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: 2/12/08
Tracy is actually spelled TRACI. (click on her picture above to see it larger)
Also, there are two more wounded fellows, so if you haven't sent your card/package, let me know!
Here is a THANK YOU note from Traci, but only for a few emails. She has NO idea of the number of cards and packages coming her way!
...thank you for all of your support as well. it's your support that gets us all
through this hard time. it is greatly appreciated.
the accident happened february 5th and we had 3
anti-tank grenades thrown at our vehicle. our
passenger in the front seat was wounded pretty bad but
he's alive and not going to lose any limbs so that's
good. our gunner got a little shrapnel in his butt but
he's ok and i have a huge bruise on my arm. at first,
i honestly thought my arm got blown off. the grenades
that they threw are the most dangerous ones out there
right now so we are all very lucky to be alive.
I honestly will never be able to express to you how
much all this means to me. It's so awesome to know
that we have such amazing people supporting us and
what we have to go through. I will definitely keep in
touch. again, thank you.
Traci

-------------------------

UPDATE 2/11/08: WOW! I received a tremendous response to this request, and well, I think she's going to need a larger room to accomodate all the cards and goodies!!! You can be sure she'll share with troops there with her.
The other good news is that she's not hurt too badly, although I don't know the details. Apparently, they expect she'll be able to return to duty. (I'm not sure if that is good or bad news!)
She was a return to duty, she is recuperating with her unit.(a lot of
pain and swelling) I will tell her to distribute the care packages how
she sees fit... She is a great person and soldier... She will take care
of other soldiers in her unit, I am sure of it. She just started her
tour there so she is going to be there at least another year!!! So just
let all of your GREAT people thank you from me as well as the troops
over there, and know they have a soldier for the long run in Traci. I am
still working on that pic she sent one, but forgot to attach it. Its
coming I promise. SGT Matthew Kockx (pic below)

---------------------

2/8/08 Today I received this request from a soldier we supported several years ago and with whom I'm still in touch. Maybe you could help?

hello Aunt Nancy!!!! i havent talked to you in a while!!! how have things been? im sure you have only gotten busier huh....
i have a huge favor to ask of you. my best friend is in Iraq right now.... was just injured [by] a IED*. can you get her room filled with care packages???? as a favor to me? i would be forever in your debt.... your #1 soldier SGT Matthew Kockx

I won't post the name or address of the wounded female online, but you may just email me and ask for the information. If any of you can send at least a card that would be wonderful! If you can send some small package: Awesome!
I can tell you she is from a COB (Combat Out Post). Read a recent blog entry below for that description of living conditions

If you are sending her a little "get-well" package, keep in mind she'll probably share with the other wounded troops around her there. And, here's my 3rd plug for GIRL SCOUT COOKIES! :-) Valentine goodies would be nice too I'm sure.

I'll be posting updates on her condition soon.

*IED:

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jump to: navigation, search

Munitions rigged for an IED discovered by Iraqi police in Baghdad, November 2005.

An improvised explosive device (IED) is a bomb constructed and deployed in ways other than in conventional military action. They may be partially comprised of conventional military explosives, such as an artillery round, attached to a detonating mechanism. IEDs are often placed on the curb of roads so as to detonate at passing vehicles or pedestrians, and so are sometimes known as roadside bombs.

__________________________

Tips on getting mail responses

2008-02-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

Often people ask me how to best get a response from their soldier(s). You probably think I'm an expert! Well, if you factor in that I have tried to send a letter to every soldier that is sent my way, my own "return rate" is very low. I have received a 100 responses, thank-yous, flags, certificates, Christmas cards, gifts, many many emails, but considering the number I have sent out....

Most of my time now is spent connecting others. In fact, since the Disney publicity in November, I have not been able to send letters of introduction to all the new troops that have come to me. I should have mentioned that to those of you who have sponsored a new soldier since October! Your troop might not know anything about "Aunt Nancy USA"! I hope to get back to doing that soon.

Meanwhile, I'd like to post here some suggestions from volunteers who HAVE had great response. If you have suggestions, send them my way (soldiers OR sponsors can send ideas in). I'll keep posting ideas on this Blog entry, so come back and check it again.

The first thing to remember is that these guys and gals are in a war zone and often working 7 days a week, 12 to 18 hours a day! They may have enough energy to READ your letter, but if they get time and energy to write, it's their families and friends they will respond to first. Many of the troops have desk jobs at base camp and if they do, then we get lucky and get email replies! The others may only get 30 minutes online every once in awhile.

My first suggestion is to write very neatly on your envelopes and packages. Some get tossed out if they can't be read, especially due to security. Make sure the soldier's address AND your return address are very clear.
Always include a return envelope with your address already on it. (no postage is required for their return mail). Maybe even send them some little address stickers.
Include your email address just in case they get to use a computer. (Most can, but only occasionally, and then they write to family and friends first.)
Buy a box of cards ("Michaels" sells them for $1.00!) Send often, at least once a week until you get a response. You don't have to write a lot in each notecard.
If you have sent a fews packages without hearing back (allow 2 months) you might write to say you won't send more until you get a response and are sure they are arriving.
Keep your letters upbeat, even funny. Send cheer! Tell them about everyday life back home, and what's going on in your world.
Send pictures! They like to know see who is writing them, just like we like to see their photo.
Talk local sports. Send memorabilia! Magazines, ball caps, shirts, whatever! Pro, college... One soldier wrote: "We'd much rather receive a sporting item that reminds us of home than a can of shaving cream any day!"
Look up your soldier on MySpace or Facebook! You may find his/her interests there.

Here's one from a woman who writes lots of soldiers, and she writes extremely often.

Yes, Jamey and I are becoming friends. I got e-mail right away. I might add that my soldiers get almost daily snail mail from me, so they don’t stand a chance if they are not talkative. Lol…. I don’t wait for responses and I threaten boredom for them if they don’t at least tell me something they want to hear about..lol Im always up for another soldier or 2 or 10 if somebody needs me. Thanks for Jamey….

I like her "threaten boredom" approach! :-)

I work VERY hard to keep in touch with my contacts to make sure the troop names and APO (Army Post Office) addresses are still valid. Of course, I can't be as perfect as I'd like, but I sure try. If you get a change, or an email address, please forward that info to me.

Send me your success suggestions! I'll be back adding more soon.

_____________________________________

The 581 ASMC: COB vs. FOB

2008-02-04T21:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a note from a soldier about "COB" locations like these guys are at:

...soldiers that are living out in the very austere Combat Outposts (COP) are the center piece of General Petreaus' surge plan. These Soldiers live and work VERY close to the Iraqi citizens as opposed to on large Forward Operating Bases (FOB) like the one I live on here at the Airport. Because these places are small and house only a small number of Soldiers, the amenities that we get here are simply not available. They get 1 hot meal per day (sometimes none), they get a shower once a week (sometimes 10 days) and they have no TV, limited internet and they feel extremely isolated. In addition, the threat the Soldiers live with is huge. In my 4 visits to this particular COP, the place has come under some sort of attack EVERY time. Mortars and sniper fire is DAILY business for these Soldiers. Life is HARD for them. The upside is that they become the tightest of squads and platoons, and contrary to what one might expect...morale is HIGH. These Soldiers are on the front line of this war, and on their shoulders rests the total weight of our success or failure.

______________________________

Helping Iraqi families

2008-02-03T17:48:00.001-08:00

I have a new request for baby supplies, and Beanie Babies, via the 972nd Military Police, a Boston, Mass. National Guard unit.

To the one we call Aunt Nancy,

I request that if someone is sending items that they send me items that I can give to the Iraqi community to improve their quality of life. We do humanitarian distro here for infants, and young children with items such as Desitin, children's vitamins, children cough syrup, hats, mittens, ETC. I also have been working with a priest here in the IZ that delivers goods to a local orphanage to assist them with their everyday life. So I do more for the community than for me, like I said I have more than I need. I however hold those looking to donate is such high regards for their contributions to the war effort.

Beanie Babies:

Send me what you can. We have no shortage of soldiers here showing good will to our "hosts". We put beanie babies in small zip bags with some candy and throw then to the kids as we pass. When possible we will hand them personally to them. Hearts and minds! These kids are the hope for their future, lets get this done right and go home!

Be well.
1SG Steven B.

A collection of clean, "gently used" Beanie Babies and candy in sealed plastic bags could be a great school, scout, or other group project, as would a collection of vitamins and other items mentioned above.

_______________________

Girl Scout Cookies!

2008-02-03T14:48:00.001-08:00

What is the very most favorite treat of all for the soldiers???

It could just be GIRL SCOUT COOKIES! Not only are they tasty as we all know, but there is something especially "American" and therefore sentimental, about them! Any cookie with chocolate might possibly win you a friend for life! Now's the time to order! It's cold there now -- mailing chocolate is OK.

If you missed sending cards for Mardi Gras and Valentines Day, don't forget St. Pat's, or just about any other excuse! Some people send a card a week which would be really fun and supportive, but every couple of weeks is very nice if you can. A month is a VERY long time in Iraq!

_________________________

D Company, 1-181 Infantry

2008-02-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

Have you heard from a soldier in D Company, 1-181 Infantry? I have not heard from my contact in awhile and am looking to confirm their status in Iraq. Let me know if your troop has replied lately.

Here's one response 2/04/08:

"dclow" said...: I have friend from my hometown who is in D Company, 1-181 Infantry. They are doing well and still serving in Iraq. They are expecting to be there another 5-7 months. They are working long hours and not always able to write. Please continue to send support it is very much appreciated.

Here's a response I received FROM Delta Company today, Feb. 5th:
Aunt Nancy,
My name is SFC Michael L., Platoon Sergeant.
Let me start by saying thank you for all that you do. I know my soldiers appreciate it. There is a special kind of feeling that comes from knowing that someone you do not even know cares about you.
I would like to assure you that SPC M. has been receiving her mail regularly. I do not know if she has received any mail from the individual that emailed you. The Army postal system is actually very good about getting soldiers their mail and I was wondering if there was, perhaps, an error in the address label.
Again, thank you for all that you do.

Michael L., SFC
Delta Company
1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment

_______________________________

New FOB Freedom group: 972 MPCo

2008-02-02T22:49:00.000-08:00

We have a new unit at Forward Operating Base FREEDOM:
The 972th Military Police Company, a National Guard unit out of Boston.

They have already been in Iraq several months, and expect to leave in June 2008. Make note of that if you have a soldier in this unit.

____________________________________________

Thanks from 18th Military Police Brigade

2008-02-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

The 18th MPB has been deployed to Iraq three times now. The first time, March 2003, included my niece, CPT Mann, and is when "Aunt Nancy USA" was born. With your help we have supported this unit all three times.

MAJOR DEWEY, of the 18th MPB, sent this Thank-You along this week. If you haven't heard back from your soldier in this unit, he helps explain why.

We all have enjoyed the nice treats you sent last month. I shared them with the other guys here in my office. In fact, if you'd like to do us all another favor, might I request some flavored coffee creamers especially Irish Cream (my personal favorite). The majority of the soldiers assigned to the brigade headquarters would all appreciate this.

We have a little coffee shop in our brigade headquarters and we have a hard time getting things like that here. We would all enjoy it and I'll put a note up letting everyone know it was courtesy of you and your family.

Our brigade is extremely busy right now, engaged in the mission to expand the Iraqi police forces. A very daunting but rewarding mission.

So, forgive us if we don't return your emails right away. We do appreciate the support of the folks back home like yourselves.

Take care and God bless.

Sincerely,

Aut viam inveniam aut faciam
Find a way or make a way

Larry C. Dewey
MAJ, PTT Chief
18th Military Police Brigade
Camp Victory, Baghdad, Iraq

Here's his earlier email to his sponsor:

Chad,
Thank you so much for your kind gift. I received your package today and I especially enjoy the beef jerky and cookies. The batteries should be enough to get me through the rest of the deployment, about 12 more months. One of my sergeants put my name in Aunt Nancy for me, so I was pleasantly surprised to receive your package. It is grateful, patriotic Americans like yourself that make this job worthwhile.

Don't worry about not including phone cards. I personally don't use them as I am able to talk to my family regularly over the computer and military phone lines. Not all soldiers are so fortunate as to have modern communications systems if they live in remote base camps and outposts.

My brigade has a very exciting mission here in Iraq; to mentor, train, and develop the Iraqi Police, particularly in Baghdad. It is a very challenging, but rewarding mission and we have a very close and personal relationship with the Iraqi Police leadership.

I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and thanks again for your thoughtful gift.

Sincerely,

Larry C. Dewey
Major, Police Transition Team Chief
18th Military Police Brigade

_____________________________

18th MPB - Rank updates for "ASG" rank

2008-01-17T13:55:00.000-08:00

I can't get emails out to all of you so here is the list. Names will be shortened for security reasons, but you should not have trouble identifying yours. There are two groups below. If you have received an email response from your soldier, please let me know.

SPC	ADC, K
SPC	BAS, J
SSG	BASS, P
PFC	BOY, J
PFC	BROD, BR
PFC	CAN, J
PFC	CHAP, G
SFC	CUTH, E
2LT	GEH, C.
MSG	GIL, T
CPL	HEA, C
PFC	HEL, S
SGT	HOU, S
PFC	KIN, D
PFC	LANG, M
SGT	LUM, J
SPC	MCDO, EA
PFC	McNI, C
PFC	MUR, PA
SPC	NETH, BRA
SPC	OLI, DA
PFC	RIS, TO
PFC	ROB, AS
SGT	ROD, JU
SGT	SAL, AN
SSG	SHIF, KE
SGT	SHIF, ME
SSG	VAU, DW
SPC	YBA, J

----------------------

SSG	ALL, D
MSG	AND, DA
SGM	ARBE, M
LTC	BAKT, P
MAJ	BEAM, D
SGT	BLA, R
SGT	BLOTT, D
SFC	BUTL, D
2LT	BUZA, FE
CPT	BYRU, V
SSG	CART, D
PFC	CHRIS, K
SPC	COLEM, L
PV2	COLV, N
SGT	CORTN, L
MAJ	CRANFO, R
SFC	DAV, DE
MAJ	DAY, M
1LT	DELON, D
MAJ	DEW, L
CPT	DUNL, B
SPC	ELL, G
SFC	FERN, R
SSG	FLO, J
SFC	FOWL, O
MSG	FRAN, T
PFC	GARD, E
1LT	GIAQ, JO
SGT	GOMEZ M
MAJ	GRAHE, K
CPT	GRE, A
PFC	HAMIL, E
SPC	HEA, R
SPC	HENDE, A
SGT	HIL, N
SFC	HOR, ST
SSG	HUF G
MAJ	INDOV, M
SFC	JON, B
MSG	KILG, J
SGT	KLASS, J
SPC	LAFRAM, A
MSG	LAMPK, W
SSG	LAY, IB
SFC	LEAR, B
1SG	LEWI, M
MAJ	LOMBA, TH
SFC	LOPE, NA
SSG	LOREN, EM
MAJ	MCCON, D
CPT	MCGR, H
CSM	MCPHER, B
SFC	MENE, J
SSG	MITS, P
LTC	MOC, R
SGT	MUR, D
SPC	OBAN, J
CPT	OWENSFIL, B
SSG	PHENG, S
SPC	PHIL, J
SFC	REY, MI
SGT	RHOA, C
SPC	SAGARDI, J
CW3	SCHUS C
SGT	SINGL, J
CPT	SPEE, S
CPT	SPERL, F
COL	SPIND, M
MSG	STEP, O
SFC	STEW, J
SGT	SUG, TS
SGT	THOM, JA
SFC	THOMP, RO
SGT	TOK, Br
SGT	TRA, B
WO1	WAL, R
SSG	WAT, J
SFC	WEST, Z
SFC	WHIT, D
PFC	WILLI, JE
SGT	WILL, RE

___________________________________

K-9 Unit change

2008-01-16T19:55:00.001-08:00

Sgt James Hazelton's canine unit has a new address. No move, just different mailing codes. If you are sponsoring him/them and plan to continue to do so, you may ask me for the information. I don't post addresses online.

_______________________________

Valentine's Day and Girl Scout Cookies!!

2008-01-15T17:16:00.001-08:00

It's time to get your VALENTINE'S DAY cards and goodies out to the troops! Cards, cards, cards, at least!

The troops love GIRL SCOUT COOKIES! Now's the time to order!

____________________________________

Other Sites You Can Help With

2008-01-12T11:05:00.001-08:00

Friends,

There has been such a wonderful response to recent publicity of "Aunt Nancy USA" that I am unable to connect all of you individually to the troops overseas. (Right now I have no new troops for you.) Since I'm just a small "one-woman" organization, I've been researching some of the many "support the troops" projects that you might want to help with instead. Recently three have been brought to my attention that I'd like you to consider.

Soldiers' Angels started a couple of months after me and very much like me, except by a Mom and not an Aunt ...they grew very big, and even got a non-profit status! In fact, they told me this week that they have many soldiers waiting for support and not enough Angels. Since I have the opposite situation, we are going to do some coordination. Look at their website directly if you would like. Tell them "Aunt Nancy" sent you!

SOLDIERS' ANGELS

Want to help with knit hats and slippers to keep the troops warm? It's freezing there this time of year. This group also focuses on the wounded warriors, like the ones we sent Christmas stockings to at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. Check out them out for some of the ways you can help send "Hugs From Home":

THE SHIPS PROJECT

A couple of my former General Motors co-workers pointed me to this Michigan group that sends all the typical goodies, plus pillows, hand-made "Four Freedoms" quilts, even bread makers!, and well, quite a variety of items to the troops. They look very organized! If you live in the area you can get actively involved too.

OPERATION QUIET COMFORT
They are tax-deductible too!

These groups may be able to help you help the troops better and easier than I can. Each has a different approach. Take a look and let me know what you think. If you find other groups you like to use, and think I should post them on my Blog, tell me.

Remember, most of these groups are just volunteers like me trying to do the best they can. It's hard to keep up with the troop changes and military addresses, and often overwhelming. Few of us are "experts".

Meanwhile, as soon as I get new soldiers I'll be assigning individuals to those of you still waiting! I hope to keep my project small enough to stay personal with direct contact to the troops and you.

____________________________________

Aunt Nancy USA - Supporting The Troops

Happy New Year 2011! New blog/website combination site

The website will also include a blog so there will be just one place to go for both the blog and the website! www.auntnancyusa.com Yeah!

We are in transition, and right now, I can't receive email (and don't know why). You can leave messages here or better yet, on my Facebook fan page.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! on to Valentines Day packages...

Lunch with Korri, a new baby, and 800 stockings!!

Holiday summary, and Fundraiser

A few troops still available for Christmas. And Thank Yous from the troops.

Jesse Rada & troops - a thank you and photos

Address change notice for JSS Loyalty; other troop updates

Mailing Instructions

Christmas stockings now - 200 new troops!

Marine's wife asks for support

Christmas mailings 2010

Veterans Day - November 11th

Halloween Candy Left Over? Send it to our troops!

Time to shop for Christmas stockings!

Andrew May sends his THANKS!

With Great RespectSFC May, AndrewU.S. ArmyInfantry

And from PFC Coombs:

If you would like to send some packages to these troops, please email me at nancy@auntnancyusa.com

Thanks!

Halloween Candy!!!

Afghanistan troops needing some care packages

Celebrate Independence Day by sending a note of appreciation to our troops

No more packages to the 211MP BN

4th of July celebration goodies

Easter Egg Hunt for the troops - or at least a card!

Jesse Rada is deployed again.

Girl Scout Cookies are a favorite of the troops!

It's Girl Scout cookie time! Need I say anything more?????

A cool way to send cards to the troops; COP Shocker leaving

It's time to send Valentines Day Packages -- and buy Girl Scout Cookies!

Christmas stocking tally

Happy Thanksgiving!!

100 new names just received, and 211th MP adddress correction

Time to mail! About 10 days left!

Time is running out for stockings for our troops! 2009

93rd Military Police Brigade - must mail now

2009 Christmas Stockings for Our Wounded Troops

Another good reason to send candy to our troops....

2009 Christmas mailing deadlines from the USPS

Halloween Candy for our wounded troops

Halloween candy, cards, and decorations

772nd Military Police leaving this week; 252nd & 211 MPCo available

Supporting a Vet - online sales

Halloween! and other upcoming holiday planning

93rd MPB status

8th Military Police Brigade returning home

New Troops in Afghanistan

Candy and supplies needed for the wounded warriors in Germany

4th of July - Goodies and Cards; 2-8 Cavalry

772 MP's - a 4 month request for support

A Note From Buffie - THANK YOU!

The 772 Military Police Company asks our help

715th Military Police mail stop.

93rd Military Police Brigade: Thanks for the Easter goodies!

Sadness and Encouragement; Beanie Babies collection

Several Thank You notes from the 93rd Military Police

The 93rd Military Police Brigade & An Easter Egg Hunt!

K9 Group is back!

716 Military Police - THANK YOU - now redeploying

Valentine's Day and Girl Scout Cookies!!

Note from Afghanistan - it's very cold there now!

A Thank You from the 716th Military Police

Goodies Arriving! and THANKS from Dave Shaw & soldiers

Troops ready to be "adopted" - College gear & music wanted for Christmas!

More help for Santa requested! 716th MP

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS FOR THE TROOPS - 2008

LRMC Wounded Warriors Ministry - 500 Christmas Stockings wanted

New unit arriving in Baghdad: 8th Military Police

Sending cards to "Any Soldier" is NOT acceptable

Special Soldiers Fun Requests - time to play Santa

Flag needed for soldiers

LRMC Wounded Warriors Ministry - 500 Christmas Stockings wanted

Send your extra Halloween candy to the Troops!

2008 Christmas Projects - start NOW!

715th Military Police going to Afghanistan

Help Needed

59th and 18th Military Police

With Great Respect
SFC May, Andrew
U.S. Army
Infantry