Prescious Stars

 I Am A Military Wife
Author Unknown

I am a military wife - a member of that sisterhood of women who have had the courage to watch their men go into battle, and the strength to survive until their return. Our sorority knows no rank, for we earn our membership with a marriage license, travelling over miles, or over nations to begin a new life with our military husbands. Within days, we turn a barren, echoing building into a home, and though our quarters are inevitably white-walled and unpapered, we decorate with the treasures of our travels, for we shop the markets of the globe.

Using hammer and nail, we tack our pictures to the wall, and our roots to the floor as firmly as if we had lived there for a lifetime. We hold a family together by the bootstraps, and raise the best of 'brats', instilling in them the motto: "Home is togetherness", whether motel, or guest house, apartment or duplex. As military wives we soon realize that the only good in "Good-bye" is the "Hello again". For as salesmen for freedom, our husbands are often on the road, at sea, or in the sky, leaving us behind for a week, a month, an assignment.

During separations we guard the home front, existing until the homecoming. Unlike our civilian counterparts, we measure time, not by years, but by tours - married at Petawawa, a baby born at Gagetown, a special anniversary at Uplands, a promotion in St Jean. We plant trees, and never see them grow tall, work on projects completed long after our departure, and enhance our community for the betterment of those who come after us.

We leave a part of ourselves at every stop. Through experience, we have learned to pack a suitcase, a car or hold baggage, and live indefinitely from the contents within: and though our fingers are sore from the patches we have sewn, and the silver we have shined, our hands are always ready to help those around us. Women of peace, we pray for a world in harmony, for the flag that leads our men into battle, will also blanket them in death.

Yet we are an optimistic group, thinking of the good, and forgetting the bad, cherishing yesterday, while anticipating tomorrow. Never rich by monetary standards, our hearts are overflowing with a wealth of experiences common only to those united by the special tradition of military life. We pass on this legacy to every military bride, welcoming her with outstretched arms, with love and friendship, from one sister to another, sharing in the bounty of our unique, fulfilling military way of life.

 

GOT  YOUR  BACK

by Autumn Parker

I am a small and precious child, my dad's been sent to fight.
The only place I'll see his face is in my dreams at night.
He will be gone too many days for my young mind to keep track.
I may be sad, but I am proud.
My daddy's got your back.

 
I am a caring mother, my son has gone to war.
My mind is filled with worries that I have never known before.
Everyday I try to keep my thoughts from turning black.
I may be scared, but I am proud.
My son has got your back.

 
I am a strong and loving wife, with a husband soon to go.
There are times I'm terrified in a way most never know.
I bite my lip, and force a smile as I watch my husband pack.
My heart may break, but I am proud.
My husband's got your back.

 
I am a Soldier, serving proudly... standing tall.
I fight for freedom, yours and mine, by answering this call.
I do my job while knowing, the thanks it sometimes lacks.
Say a prayer that I'll come home,
IT'S ME WHO'S GOT YOUR BACK!!!

 

Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.  www.BlueStarMothers.org

Connecticut Blue Star Mothers   www.ConnecticutBlueStarMothers.org 

American War Mothers  http://americanwarmoms.org/awm/

Mothers of The Military  http://www.mothersofthemilitary.org/home.html

Mothers of Military  http://www.mothersofmilitary.org/

Mothers of Military Support  http://www.mothersofmilitarysupport.com/

Band of Mothers  http://www.thebandofmothers.com/index.htm

Marine Moms-Bethesda   http://www.marinemoms-bethesda.org/

MY CHILD - Mothers of War  http://www.mychildthemovie.com/

 

Letter to a Military Spouse ~ Melissa G. Bouldin-Reeves ~ MilitaryPrideNews

Letter to a Military Spouse
While I have never had the pleasure of meeting you or your husband, I felt the need to write you and express a very deep feeling that I have in my heart.

I, as a person, am not brave. I do not tackle things head on, as I hate confrontation. I will travel 100 miles out of my way just to avoid a conflict. I am an American woman that has no idea what is going on in the military other than what I hear on the news.

I have never had to let go of someone so that they could go fight for people that they didn't know, people that sometimes do not appreciate or understand what they are fighting for.

I have never had a sleepless night of worry because of a report that another bomb has exploded and I still haven't heard from my husband.

I have never had to wait for months on end to hold the one that I loved so.

I have never had to tell my children that daddy wasn't coming home tonight because he was so far away fighting for something that they aren't yet old enough to understand.

I have never had to hold my head high and suppress the tears as I hear that it will be at least another six months of separation before my loved one gets to come home.

I have never had to deal with a holiday away from the one that I thought I would share every day of my life with.

And I have never had to feel the panic rising in my heart at the sound of a ringing phone or knock at the door for fear that it is the news that everyone is terrified of getting.

For the reasons listed above, I can not tell you that I understand how you feel. I can not tell you that you must be strong. I can not say that you shouldn't be angry, because you "knew what you were getting into when you married a military man". I can not say these things because I have never had to walk in your shoes.

What I can say for certain is that because of your unselfish acts of bravery and your husband's willingness to stand up for those who see him as "just another soldier" - - I will never have to walk in your shoes.

I do understand that as a military wife you are expected to uphold a certain amount of control, but I never understood how you could do it, until now. I have figured out that you are not like other women. You are of a special breed. You have a strength within you that holds life together in the darkest of hours, a strength in which I will never possess. The faith you have is what makes you stand out in a crowd; it makes you glow with emotion and swell with pride at the mention of The United States of America.

You are a special lady, a wonderful partner and a glorious American.

I have more respect for your husband than I could ever tell you, but until recently I never thought much about those that the soldier leaves at home during deployment.

Until this moment I could never put into words exactly what America meant to me.

Until this moment, I had no real reason to.... Until I heard of you.

Your husband and his military family hold this nation close, safe from those who wish to hurt us...but you and those like you are the backbone of the American family. You keep the wheels in motion and the hearts alive while most would just break completely down. Military families make this nation what it is today.
You give us all hope and you emit a warming light at the end of a long dark tunnel.

Because of you and your family...I am able to be me. I am able to have my family. I am able to walk free in this great land. Because of you and your family, I can look ahead to the future with the knowledge that life is going to be okay. Because of you and your family, I can awake to a new day, everyday.

I realize that you are a stronger person than I will ever be because of these things and I just wanted to take the time today to say thank you t o you and your family for allowing me that freedom.

I will never be able to repay this debt to you, as it is unmatchable. However, I hope that you know that no matter where you are...what you are doing...what has happened today...or what will happen tomorrow...Your husband will NEVER be "just another soldier" to me.... And you dear sweet lady, will never be forgotten.

You are all in my prayer's everyday and I pray that God will bring you back together with your loved one safely.

May God Bless You!


Sincerely,

Melissa G. Bouldin-Reeves
Tennessee


 

MILITARY WIVES  www.armywives.com/

ARMY WIVES   www.armywives.com/

MARINE WIVES  www.marinewives.com/

NAVY WIVES  www.navywives.com/

AIR FORCE WIVES www.airforcewives.com/

COAST GUARD WIVES   www.coastguardwives.com

RESERVE WIVES  www.reservewives.com/

MILITARY HUSBANDS  www.militaryhusbands.com/

 

Army Strong
by Rick Deobler
copyright 2009



"There's strong, then there's Army Strong."
To some, this is just some saying on T.V.,
But you know what, it means a lot more to me.
It means being able to step up to challenges that are put in front of me.

Pushing myself to the limit, both physically and mentally.
But what this phrase means most to me, is to have the courage to tell my family
That I want to serve this country and do something with my life, finally.
The hardest person to tell was my mom because I just knew she would be terrified to death
That she might lose her baby one day. So I told her to take a deep breath.

I will never forget the morning that I told her all about it.
Oh, what a long breakfast it was, but here came the last minute.
So, to let her remember this vividly, I said, "You know mom, I know exactly what you need."
So I stood at attention and recited The Soldier's Creed.
I am an American Soldier.
I am a Warrior and a member of a team.
I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.
I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.

My mom just sat there. She didn't know what to say,
So off to school I went, to let her think about it throughout the day.
I could see that this had really hit her hard,
Like when you're awaiting the flip of the river,
And then BAM! There's your opponent's card.
It was very hard to watch, as anyone could possibly imagine.

So a few days later, my mom came up to me and said,
"You know, son, I'm really proud of you," as I headed off to bed.
She pulled out a piece of paper and said, "Now it is my turn to read
Something to you that I have found, called 'A Soldier's Mother's Creed'."

I am the mother of an American Soldier.
I give my complete and unwavering support to my soldier.
As my son serves the people of the United States, so I humbly offer up prayers for his safety and the safety and health of those he serves beside.
I respect his choice to adhere to a strict moral code and a system of values that has preserved our country over two centuries.
I accept that my soldier's first duty is to his country and I understand that this sacrifice he willingly makes is what keeps our nation great.
I will never expect anything but the best from my soldier, for I know he is capable.
I know that a soldier's heart is true and strong, and that my soldier will endure.
I will never abandon my soldier, my son.
I will love him unconditionally.
He will know I am there with him, even when he is alone.
I am disciplined, emotionally and mentally tough, learning to wait for phone calls and letters or emails home.
I, like my soldier, am an expert.
I stand ready to do whatever I can do to let my son, my soldier, know that we are here for him, behind him, we love him, and I will pray for the swift destruction of the enemies of our country.
I am the person who stood guardian of this man who has become my soldier, now our guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am the proud mother of an American Soldier.

After she had read this,
My heart soared like a dove,
Because now I knew the true meaning
Of acceptance and unconditional love.

Now, not only can I say that I'm Army Strong,
Protecting the rights that are given to you,
But since my mom shows so much support in me,
I can also say that she is Army Strong too.

I saw this on the internet with a mama named Cathy saying, "Please pass this on as another example of our AWESOME service men and women!"  Her son, Rick, wrote the above poem as he prepared to leave for basic training.  He  joined the Army, following in the footsteps of his older brother. ~   "My Son, The Soldier, Army Strong"  ~  Thank you, Cathy, for sharing your son's wonderful poem.

 

http://www.codeofsupport.org/index.htm

www.standyesteady.com

curtain call productions  http://www.curtaincallproductions.com/index.html

 

Salute American Heroes
 

 

THANK YOU!! 
 
click here:

 

LETTER TO OUR SOLDIERS 

Click Here:

http://www.angelrays.com/plain/USAty.html

 

FOREVER CHANGED -- Military families are urged to face facts:

Soldiers will be different when they return.

 

 

 

Story here... http://www.boston.com/
news/local/articles/2006/08/27/forever_changed/ 

Story below:

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

Forever changed

Military families are urged to face facts: Soldiers will be different when they return

By Peter Schworm, Globe Staff

Cathy Carney dreams of her husband's return from Iraq in loving detail. He steps through a door, and she runs toward him, leaping into his arms for a deep kiss and tearful embrace. He doesn't say much, just ``Hi, Cath," but smiles ear to ear, the way he did on their wedding day. All around them, mothers are hugging their sons, and fathers are scooping up daughters, but she sees only him. She clings to him and, for the longest time, doesn't let go.

During Jack Carney's year long deployment in Iraq, she has replayed the scene in her mind over and over again. She turns to it when she misses him the most, even if it sometimes makes her miss him more.

But, at a recent meeting of a family readiness group at an Army Reserve Center in Brockton, a program trainer cautioned against such idyllic images of soldiers' homecomings. After the initial joy of the reunion, reservists and their families often struggle to pick up the threads of their shared lives, he warned. Many soldiers returning from war experience a rocky transition to civilian life, and that strain can permeate entire families. Couples, in particular, find it hard to regain their footing, and shouldn't be disappointed if the old magic doesn't return overnight.

``Don't expect perfect in the reunion process," said Richard Croucher, the director of family programs for the 94th Regional Readiness Command, which oversees readiness groups across New England. ``To think you're both going to continue just the way you were, it's not going to happen. You're both different people."

Family readiness groups are volunteer support networks for relatives of service members who typically meet monthly to share experiences and advice, both on coping with soldiers' absences and preparing for their return.

The Brockton group is affiliated with the Army Reserve's 220th Transportation Company, a unit based in Keene, N.H., that was deployed to Iraq a year ago. The unit is poised to return home from Iraq soon, possibly within two weeks, and relatives are counting the days until the homecoming.

The hardships military families endure during deployment receive more attention, but the difficulties they encounter when soldiers return are often just as profound, military and civilian counselors say. Taken together, the toll of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are potentially causing ``secondary trauma" for millions of Americans on the home front, said Kenneth Reich , codirector of a group of volunteer therapists called SOFAR that has partnered with the Army Reserve to counsel families of several reserve units, including the 220th.

``The scope is staggering," said Reich, president of the Psychoanalytic Couple and Family Institute of New England, SOFAR's umbrella organization. ``There's a real ripple effect on the families."

Reich started SOFAR -- it stands for Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists -- last year after extensive negotiations with the military, and is now coordinating with groups of mental health professionals across the country to broaden the effort. SOFAR, whose members usually meet with small groups of reservists' relatives, including children, is scheduled to begin working with the Massachusetts National Guard in October, and is also developing a program to train teachers to help children of men and women in the services.

With so many combat soldiers returning from Iraq with serious psychological problems, millions of their loved ones are dealing with the repercussions. Reich said he is struck by the depth of military families' resilience, but also of their hardships. ``The tail of trauma is a long one," he said.

Croucher and Reich said there is a growing recognition that military families, particularly those of reservists, need counseling before and during soldiers' return to ease the often-jarring reentry to their former lives. A National Military Family Association survey released in March found that military families experience high levels of anxiety, fatigue, and stress, and called for increased assistance to help families adjust after deployments.

Jaine Darwin, a Cambridge psychoanalyst and SOFAR codirector, said that while the public commonly perceives soldiers' returns as ``VE Day in Times Square," the post deployment transition is usually daunting.

Essentially, a new father or mother is coming home to a family that has also changed, she said. ``You can't take someone whose life has been in constant danger, drop them back home, and expect everything to be rosy right away."

Darwin said that families' daily exposure to intense stress -- the nightmares, erratic behavior, and emotional distance -- can be traumatizing, and hopes that counseling families will help prevent soldiers' children from incurring ``intergenerational trauma." SOFAR plans to continue counseling family members for several months after units have returned.

Mel Tapper , the returning combat veteran coordinator for the Boston area, who also works with National Guard readiness groups, said that families who pray each day for their soldier's safe return find it hard to think of anything beyond that point.

``But, after the initial euphoria, you have to deal with the reality," he said.

Matt Cary , president of the Washington-based advocacy group, Veterans and Military Families for Progress, said he is lobbying for expanded services for military families after deployment, noting high divorce rates among military couples.

Nancy Lessin , a Boston resident who cofounded Military Families Speak Out, which opposes the war, said that reunions are invariably bittersweet because soldiers return fundamentally changed.

``No one comes back from this war safe and sound," she said. ``Our loved ones who left do not come back."

In Brockton, a strong kinship pervades the room at the Army Reserve Center as members share smiles, empathetic looks, and nervous laughs. No one mentions the war, except to ask how a loved one is doing, and whether they've been able to get through on the phone. They want nothing more than to have their spouses and children safely beside them again, but they understand that reconnecting will take time.

``When they get back, it's wonderful, but everything's changed," said Lillian Connolly , the wife of an Army staff sergeant, Joseph Connolly Jr., and the readiness group leader. ``They don't know what the kids eat, what their bedtime is. You adjust to them being gone and suddenly it's, `` `Hi, honey, I'm home.' "

SOFAR and the group plan to keep meeting after the unit returns. When the unit returned from its first tour, families felt unprepared to handle the anxiety, paranoia, and restlessness many soldiers experienced. This time, relatives believe they will be able to spot the warning signs and have fewer illusions that their lives will resume without a hitch.

Connolly said members started preparing for the unit's return ``as soon as they left," to minimize the readjustment, and Croucher, who suffered post traumatic stress disorder after serving in Vietnam, counsels patience.

``It takes at least as long as the deployment for you both to get your nervous system back to normal," Croucher told the group. Many soldiers return home wary and withdrawn, hesitant to show affection, he said.

``They're still soldiers," he said. ``They're not husbands and parents yet."

Carney, a 44-year-old Canton resident, said she is relieved the group will continue its meetings, and that she has tried to remain ``cautious about my expectations" despite her excitement that a year that has ``felt like five" is nearly over.

As the meeting wrapped up, Croucher urged the group to call if they see signs of erratic behavior.

``Only time will bring your soldier back to you. Remember that."



Peter Schworm can be reached at schworm@globe.com .

 

 

Guardian Angels For Soldier's Pets
 
 
Being A Foster Care Parent For A Soldier's Pet
 
Form A Chapter In Your State

 

 

Packages of Love -- WHAT TO SEND

Food Items

  • Cereals: sugared cereals that can be eaten as a snack or out of the box if milk is not available; individual packets of hot cereal
  • Gum, Lifesavers, Mints, Pez Candies, Lollipops: individually wrapped or small packages are best
  • Fruit: dried fruit packages; individual serving size of caned fruit (metal cans, especially with snap open lids)
  • Nuts, Sunflower Seeds, Peanuts, Pretzels, Trail Mix (without chocolate due to the heat) 
  • Power Bars, Protein Bars, Nutritional Bars, Granola Bars, Cereal Bars, Pop Tarts 
  • Beef Jerky, Beef Summer Sausage (non-perishable; labeled USDA Beef)
  • Crackers, Snack Mixes, Micro-wave Popcorn
  • Potato Chips, Cheese Curls, Pretzels, Popcorn 
  • Ramen Noodles, Cup-O-Noodles, Soup in a Cup 
  • Spaghetti, Macaroni, Ravioli: individual metal cans with snap open are best
  • Tuna Lunch Kits
  • Canned Tuna, Sardines, Spam, Hot Dogs
  • Sauces: individual packets of  ketchup, mustard, relish, hot sauce, salsa
  • Seasoning Salts, Flavoring Salts, Peppers 
  • Cheese Dips
  • Pudding Cups
  • Cookies and Brownies
  • Cupcakes, Honey Buns, or Individually wrapped sweet snacks
  • Cakes in a Jar 
  • Sugar and Sugar Substitutes: individual packets
  • Ground Coffee, Instant Coffee, Coffee Bags, Coffee Drink Powder
  • Hot Coco Mix: cans or individual packets
  • Tea: tea bags and/or powdered
  • Cold Drink Mixes: cans or individual packets of powdered drink mixes
  • Creamer Packets 

Clothing  Items

  • Socks: cotton or wool (black or white to be worn under black)
  • T-shirts: white (or Olive Green for Marines)
  • Cotton Underware Bottoms: male or female variety
  • Long Underware (for winter months)
  • Stocking Caps (keep with dark colors)
  • Helmet Liners (keep with dark colors)
  • 72 inch Bootlaces (brown or tan)

Hygiene and Personal Care  Items

  • Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
  • Dental Floss
  • Toilette Paper, Paper Towels, Tissues
  • Soap
  • Comb and Brush
  • Emery Boards, Nail Files, Nail Clippers, Tweezers
  • Deodorant
  • Eye Drops for Dry Eye Relief
  • Contact Lens Cleaning Solutions
  • Eyeglass Wipes
  • Chapstick, Blistex, Lip Balm
  • Q-tips and Cotton Balls
  • Baby Wipes
  • Cough Drops
  • Sunblock
  • Flee Collars (for ankles in summer)
  • Baby Powder, Medicated Powder, Foot Powder
  • Oder Eaters and Boot Liners
  • Shampoo and Conditioners
  • Body Lotions
  • Body Wash
  • Shaving lotion (nothing aerosol)
  • Disposable Razors
  • Mouthwash (without alcohol)
  • Hand Sanitizing Gels
  • Instant Hand Warmers (disposable)

Supply Items

  • Pens and Pencils
  • Paper, Pads, Journals
  • Envelopes (various sizes)
  • Greeting Cards to Send Back Home
  • Scotch Tape, Packing Tape, Duct Tape, Electrical Tape
  • Super Glue, Paper Glue
  • Disposable Cameras
  • Batteries
  • Deck of Cards
  • Hand Held Travel Games
  • Crossword Puzzle Books, Game Books, Puzzle Books
  • Reading Materials (magazines, books, booklets)
  • Hacky Sack, Tennis Balls, Inflatable Beach Balls
  • Movie DVDs, Music CDs
  • Portable DVD and/or DC Players
  • Pillows
  • Sheets and Pillow Cases
  • Blankets (winter time)
  • Leatherman All-in-One Tool Item
  • Plastic Silverware, Plastic Cups, Paper Dishes
  • Straws, Stir Sticks for drinks
  • Sunglasses

Care Items

  • Pictures From Home
  • Letters From Home
  • Drawings From Young Children
  • Cards From Family and Friends
  • Local Newspapers From Home
  • Phone Cards

For The Ladies Items

  • Feminine Hygiene Products
  • Perfume Sprays, Body Splash
  • Lady's Shaving Products
  • Lady's Hair Care Products
  • Face Cream

 

Military Discounts

If you have a military or veteran ID, many places will allow you a discount (even more than are listed here) -- but you have to ask.
 
Military Discounts

15 February 2011

Here are 199 stores and services doing their part to make life easier by offering discounts to active, reserve, and retired members of the US Military and their immediate family members. Two important caveats for this list. First, some stores offer discounts only at the owner’s discretion and other discounts vary by state. Second, many stores that give a military discount don’t advertise it. It is always worth asking a store whether they have one or not and to have your military ID on you.

  • A&W
  • Advance Auto – 10% off with military ID
  • Agentsource.com – Up to 40% off standard real estate closing costs for Active duty men and women moving in the United States or Canada
  • All State – Allstate Funding proudly offers all U.S. Military personnel a $250 credit towards the appraisal of a residential property. Ends 12/31/2010
  • American Airlines – Discount varies, requires military ID
  • American Video Productions -10% off to active duty, retired, families of military and dependents. Call and ask for the discount http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/
  • Amtrak – 10% off
  • Anheuser – Busch Amusement Parks – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Anna’s Linens - 10% off any purchase with Valid Military ID in store only
  • Apple Computers - The discount varies, you need to sign up here – http://www.apple.com/r/store/government/
  • Applebee’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you
  • Arby’s - Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Ashford University – Discounted tuition at $250 a credit, books are covered for all required courses, waived application fee, waived technology fee and more! Benefits apply to all Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists and spouses, dependents eligible for survivor benefits, plus civilian DOD employees & separated vets/retirees still using their GI Bill.
  • ASMBA – Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association – Membership in the non-profit association is free, and, when you join, you’ll get $3,000 of free AD&D coverage.
  • AT&T – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Auto Zone – Varies Per Store - Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Avis – 25% off, online you should use this coupon AWD # A555084
  • Azamara Cruises – Discounts vary, 800-338-4962
  • Back Yard Burgers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Banana Republic – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
  • Barnes and Noble – 6% off regular price plus free shipping, check out www.bn.com/militarycity
  • Barnhill’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Bass Pro Shops – 10% off from the 15th to 22nd of each month
  • Bed & Breakfast Inns – On November 10th, over 500 Bed and Breakfasts are offering a free night stay to to veterans. Click here for the list of participating B&B’s.
  • Best Inns and Suites – Varies, must present Military ID with check-in
  • Best Western - Rates within allowable per diem, must present military ID with check in
  • Beyond Blossoms - 20% off all flower orders throughout the year 12/31/2010
  • Big 10 Tires – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Blockbuster – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Bob Evan’s – 20% off with military ID
  • Boscov’s- 15% off in-store purchases with military ID everyday.
  • Boston Bill Sunglasses – 10% off
  • Boston Market – 20% with military ID.
  • Bronson Labratories - 10% off on all vitamin and supplement orders, for active, retired, and reserve and their families Call 1-800-235-3200 or use online code AF2004, ends 1/21/2011
  • Buckle – 10% off, Free Shipping on all military orders
  • Budget – Varies, up to 25% off time and mileage Store, requires military ID to redeem
  • Budget Truck Rental – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Burger King – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Busch Gardens- One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2010. Here’s to the Heroes
  • Camino Real Apartments – 5% military discount
  • Captain D’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Carl’s Jr. – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Century 21 – FREE Century 21 AON Home Protection Plan when they buy or sell a home through Molly Kucharski ONLY paid for at settlement. Value = $399.00, call 1(800) 952-2516
  • Champs Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Checker Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Chevy’s Fresh Mex – 20%, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Chick Fil A – Varies, Discount with ID card (location dependent), discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Chipotle – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Choice Hotels – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military ID.
  • Ci-Ci’s Pizza – Discount varies, dependent on location, must present military ID
  • Cingular – 17 to 18% Discount off your bill and 25% off accessories
  • Clarion Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must present valid military ID with check-in
  • Coldstone – Discount varies, must present military ID
  • Comfort Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must Present valid military ID with check-in
  • Coolmilitary.com – 10% off, online, ends 12/31/10
  • Copeland’s Sports - Discount varies per location
  • D.S.W. Shoe Warehouse – 10% military discount
  • Dairy Queen - 10% off, location dependent
  • Days Inn – Rates within allowable per diem. Must present valid military ID with check-in
  • Dell Computers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Denny’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Dick’s Sporting Goods – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Discovery Channel Store – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Disney Resorts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Disneyland - Military discounts are available only for tickets purchased at installation MWRs. Prices vary per date and length of visit
  • Dollar Car Rental – Allowable per diem rates
  • Dunkin’ Donuts – Veterans advantage members save 10% on all online orders. They also send free coffee to the troops oversees.
  • DZ Web Design – 15% off, discount ends 12/31/2010
  • Earthly Herbs – 25% off, discount ends 12/31/10.
  • El Molino Coffee Shop - Free Shipping, online
  • Express Clothing Store- 10% off on top of other coupons as well with military ID
  • Extreme Outfitters -10-20% on miiltary Gear, online and in Store
  • Eyeware - Discount varies, get the discount online at http://www.afeyewear.com/ – This site offers military discounts for a wide range of eyeglass companies
  • Foot Action – 20% off with military ID
  • Foot Locker – 20% off with military ID
  • Ford – Discount varies, http://www.encs.com/ford/
  • Forget me not Jewelry – 30% off, ends 12/31/10. Online, use code militarygen100 at www.forgetmenotjewelry.com
  • Friendly’s Ice Cream Stores – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Gander Mountain – 5% off
  • Gap – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
  • Geico – 2% to 15% in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee and Texas
  • GM – Varies, always well below MSRP. You can sign in online at https://www.exclusivegmoffer.com/ip-gmpop/initPop.do?program=mpp
  • GNC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Golden Corral – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Great Wolf Lodge – Up to 33% off, discount varies however. Must book room over the phone rather than the internet.
  • GuideToMilitaryTravel.com – Another great site for military families to go to when looking for travel discounts.
  • Haber Vision – 50% discount on all sunglasses. Online at http://www.habervision.com/CodeResult.aspx?code=JB10222Q
  • Hanes Outlet Store – 10% off with Military ID
  • Hard Rock Cafe – 10% – 15% off. Varies for each location.
  • Hertz – Allowable per diem rates. Show valid military ID
  • Hewlett-Packard – Log on to website and click on New User Registration: Enter first and last name, user name, password and email address. Use company code: 2727. Discounts vary. Online only.
  •  HickoryFarms.com - 10 percent Military discount – Enter 892848 in code box on online order form
  • Home Depot – 10% off Year Round, to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. In-Store, just bring valid military ID
  • Hooters – 10% off with military ID
  • Hot Topic – 10-20% off with military ID
  • IAVA – IAVA, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, is a veterans organization that looks to help take care of the newest generation of American veterans. They also are working with companies, such as JC Penney, to provide up to $200 in vouchers to certain retail stores.
  • IHOP – 20% with Military ID at owners discretion
  • Imax – $1 off movie tickets with Military ID
  • Inkshouse.com – 20% off $50 or more, use cod Mil20
  • istudysmart.com – Free Shipping for Military Families, Online, 9/15 – 10/14
  • Java Cafe – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Jeep – $500 for active military, reserves and retired reserves or active after 20 years of service. Requires military ID
  • Jiffylube – 10% off with valid Military ID
  • Jockey – 10% off with valid Military ID
  • Jones New York Outlet Store – 10% off with valid Military ID
  • KB Toys – 15% off during advertised Military Days
  • KFC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Kragen Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Lady Foot Locker – 20% off with military ID
  • Leslie Pool Supplies- 10% off with military ID
  • Lerner – 15% off
  • Long John Silver’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Longhorn Steakhouse – 10% military discount
  • Lowes – 10% off year round to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. Just bring in a valid military ID. The military discount, however, cannot be combined with other coupons they may be offering.
  • Macy’s – 10% off on the first Tuesday of every month, 15% with a Macy’s card. Here are more Macy’s Coupons.
  • Maurices – 10% off with valid military I.D.
  • Marriott Hotels – It’s the Per Diem amount the government picks up, whatever that amount is. Just call and place the reservation over the phone and ask for that discount. Online at http://www.marriott.com/reservation/worldnum.mi
  • Mary Kay Cosmetics – Military personnel and dependents receive 10 % on online orders. Reference your service affiliation and status, and ask for additional free gift and bigger discounts by contacting website.
  • McDonald’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Meineke – 10% off parts. In store only. Simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Michaels - 10% off every Wednesday.
  • Midas – 10% off
  • MLB Hall of Fame – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Movie Theaters – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Mrs. Fields- 10% off with military ID, coupon link
  • My Cruise Club – 9% off on all cruises, ends 12/31/10, www.militarycruisedeals.com
  • NAPA Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Nautica - 10% off with military ID
  • National – No fee for additional drivers, and special off duty rates per location. Service members receive full loss damage waivers
  • National Credit Solutions – 25% discount, call toll free at 866-485-2540 x109, and for a direct line please call 972-746-4209
  • New York and Company - 15% off military discount
  • Nextel – 18% Discount, call 1-800-639-6111
  • Nickelodeon Hotels – Reduced rates and perks, online and in store, www.nickhotel.com/military , 877-NICK-111 and ask for the Military Family Package.
  • Nike – 10% off, In-Store. For official company policy please check out http://www.nikebiz.com/customer_service/discounts.html
  • Nuvo - $30 off Ritmo Pregnancy Sound System. You can call 1-888-688-6462, or use coupon code MILITARY99 online at http://www.nuvo-group.com. Valid military ID required for in-store purchase.
  • O’Reilly Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Oakley – There is a website you register with that offers Oakleys at a discounted price. It doesn’t say how much that price is though. Check it out online at https://secure.usstandardissue.com/
  • Old Navy – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
  • Pac Sun – Discount varies per location, just bring in a vaild military ID and ask
  • Panchero’s Mexican Grill – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Pancho’s Mexican Buffet – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Panda Express – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Paradise Bakery- 40% off meals for military members with military ID. Does not extend to family.
  • Paradise Limousine – $25 Off Limousine Service Coupon Code: 1369 for service members
  • Pep Boys – 10% off with valid military ID
  • Pizza Hut – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Play It Again Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Professional Sports teams – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Pure Beauty – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Quizno’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Race-Depot – 10% off, use code 10MILCITY
  • Rack Room Shoes – 15% discount. Bring in valid military ID
  • Raising Cane’s Chicken – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Ralph Lauren Outlet Store – 10% off with Military ID
  • Ramada – 15% to 30% – depending on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check in.
  • Red Robin – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Regal Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times. Requires Military ID
  • Ripley’s attractions and museums – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – 10% military discount
  • Rocky Mountain Tracking – 5% off any tracking inc. Use code USMILITARY, http://www.rmtracking.com/
  • S & K Men’s Wear – 8% Discount on all items free shipping on orders over $99 & APO/FPO shipping. To access the military site at S&K you must go through their AAFES Exchange Mail Online service. http://bdeal.me/aCVq2X
  • Sally Beauty Supply – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Samsonite- 15% off with military ID
  • Sea World -One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2010. Here’s to the Heroes
  • Sesame Park Place- One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2010. Here’s to the Heroes
  • Shedd Aquarium in Chicago- Free general admission with military ID. On the Shedd Aquarium page that is hyper linked here, scroll down to "Other Discounts" to find out more information.
  • Shoe Carnival – 10% off with military ID
  • Shoe Department – 10% off with military ID
  • Sierra Suites – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military I.
  • Simone Protective Health – 20% off their nutritional hydration drink.
  • Six Flags Mountain Magic – Service members receive special discounts on admission for special events and specific dates. Tickets must be purchased in advance MWR and ITT 143. Recreation offices, not at the park.
  • Sizzler – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Sonic – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Soutwest Airlines – Varies, it’s a dollar amount, not a percentage. Not available on all flights, you’ll have to call Southwest and simply just ask.
  • Spencer’s Gifts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • SportsMemorabilia.com – 10% off at checkout, use code mili10 online
  • Sprint – 10-18% off. Sprint will also put a "hold" on your line when you are deployed, if you provide a copy of your orders, so you still have the same number when you come back and you do not have to pay for the time your gone as well.
  • Sprint Business – 15% to 20% Discount, 1-888-788-4727
  • Suzuki – $500 off for you and immediate family. Requires military ID
  •  Sweet Tomatoes – 10% off with military ID
  • Szul- Free shipping to Military APO/FPO destinations until 12/31/10. http://bdeal.me/dnZ6Fb
  • Taco Bell – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Texas Road House – 30% military discount
  • The Finish Line – 20 percent military discount off select items at special locations
  • The Melting Pot – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Timberland Outlets – 15%, bring in valid military ID
  • Tommy Hilfiger – 10% with valid military ID
  • Toyota – $500 off + $500 for firs time buyers. Requires military ID
  • Travelodge – Rates within allowable per diem. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military I.D
  • Under Armor Outlet Store – 10% off with military ID
  • United Artist Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times. Requires Military ID.
  • Verizon – 23% discount on monthly bills. Applies only to the military member’s primary line.
  • Walgreens – 10% with military ID every Tuesday
  • Wendy’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
  • Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo – Free admission ticket for active duty or reserve member of the military, also allows 50% discount in admission for up to 3 family members
  • Wildlife Conservation Society’s New York Aquarium – Enrolled military get in for free and 50% off for up to 3 family members http://www.nyaquarium.com/
  • Wing Zone – 10% military discount in Alabama. Ends 12/31/2015
  • World of Coca Cola – $2 off standard admission price for service member with I.D. and up to four guests.
  • Wyndham Hotels – Discounts vary by 140 locations. Also depend on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check in.
  • Zaxby’s – 10% off with military ID

[Source: http://blog.bradsdeals.com/2010/09/22/160-stores-with-military-discounts Feb 2011 ++]

– Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

 

TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Accommodations for U.S. Military Personnel

Special Considerations

Thank You for Your Service to Our Country!

We salute and appreciate the sacrifice of all of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Services. The following are some helpful hints for screening your person, carry-on bags and checked baggage to help you achieve a trouble-free travel experience at the airport.

We provide information for family members who would like to obtain gate passes to accompany or meet loved ones at the gate and in addition provide comprehensive airport security information for severely injured military personnel.

Screening of Military Personnel

Checkpoint:

When you arrive at the checkpoint, the following tips will assist you in getting through the screening process easily and efficiently:

  • Keep boarding pass and ID available
  • Remove class A uniform jacket, metal items in pockets, and metal belt buckle and submit them for X-ray screening
  • Military personnel in uniform, with a valid military ID are not required to remove their footwear unless it alarms the walk through metal detector
  • Ensure your carry-on luggage does not contain any prohibited items

Packing Tips for Military Personnel

Checked Baggage:

Pack your heavier, denser equipment/personal items at the top of your checked baggage (i.e. helmets, boots and books). Place your clothing and smaller items in the bottom of the bag. This will help TSA screeners re-pack your bag neatly if a physical search is required.

Take all valuables and electronics with you as carry-on items unless they are prohibited items.

If you wish to lock your checked baggage, use a TSA-recognized lock.

Transporting Firearms and Ammunition

Transport of Weapons by the Unit

  • The unit must declare weapons and ammunition to the aircraft operator.
  • Weapons must be unloaded and collectively secured in a crate and banded or individually locked in a hard-sided case.
  • Ammunition must also be securely packed in fiber (such as cardboard), wood or metal boxes or other packaging specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition.
  • You can't use firearm magazines/clips for packing ammunition unless they completely and securely enclose the ammunition (e.g., by securely covering the exposed portions of the magazine or by securely placing the magazine in a pouch, holder, holster or lanyard).
  • You may carry the ammunition in the same hard-sided case as the firearm, as long as you pack it as described above.
  • A unit representative must submit the unit's official travel orders and an inventory of weapons and ammunition being transported.
  • The unit representative must certify to TSA in writing that the weapons are unloaded.

Transport of Weapons by an Individual Soldier

Firearms, ammunition and firearm parts may only be transported in checked baggage. Firearms, ammunition and firearm parts are prohibited in carry-on baggage. If you have just returned from overseas duty or any assignment where you carried a gun or ammunition, please be sure to double check your belongings, particularly your carry-on bag, to make sure firearms, parts or ammunition are not present.

Sharp Objects and Tools - You may not bring knives and certain tools in your carry-on luggage. Tools greater than seven inches are not permitted as a carry-on and all hammers, drills, saws and crowbars are prohibited regardless of length. Pointed scissors with a blade greater than four inches is also prohibited as a carry-on. Pack these items in your checked luggage. Please sheath or securely wrap any sharp objects in your checked luggage so that it does not injure baggage handlers and security officers.

Hazardous Materials:For a list of hazardous materials that are prohibited from the airplane, please visit the Federal Aviation Administration Web site.

Accommodations for U.S. Military Personnel

Military Family Member Gate Passes

Family members who want to accompany a military service member being deployed to the boarding gate or greet them returning from deployment at the arrival gate may receive passes to enter the secure area of the airport.

Interested military family members should contact their air carrier representative at the departure/arrival airport for proper local procedures.

Severely Injured Military Personnel

Military Severely Injured Joint Services Operations Center (MSIJSOC) Program

TSA wants to facilitate the screening of injured and wounded service members. To address these specific situations TSA has partnered with the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop a process so that we have better awareness of when our injured military heroes are traveling through our nation's airports. In early February 2005, TSA was granted permission by DOD to place TSA staff in the newly commissioned Military Severely Injured Joint Services Operations Center Program on a 24-hour, 7-day a week basis.

Here is how the process works:

  • Once flight arrangements are made with the airline, the severely injured service member and his or her family can call the Operations Center's 24/7 toll-free number (888) 774-1361) with details of the itinerary. The number is also available to representatives of programs for the severely injured, military treatment facilities and Veterans Administration hospitals acting on behalf of the injured service member.
  • The caller will be connected to a TSA liaison team member via the center's care managers.
  • The TSA liaison person will then notify the appropriate Federal Security Directors at the involved airports to ensure that any security screening required at those airports will be conducted by TSA screening experts with empathy and respect in order to make the overall experience for the service member as expeditious and pleasant as possible.

*********************************************************

Military Family Member Gate Passes

Family members who want to accompany a military service member to the boarding gate or greet them at the arrival gate may receive passes to enter the secure area of the airport.  While the pass provides non-flying family members access to the gate area, they will still have to pass through the security checkpoint.

Interested military family members should contact their air carrier
representative at the departure/arrival airport for proper local procedures.


Severely Injured Military Personnel

TSA is working closely with the Department of Defense in its Military Severely
 Injured Joint Support Operations Center to assist service members and their
families with airport security screening.

A team is available to answer questions from service personnel and their families about how to facilitate travel through the commercial aviation system.   TSA representatives will explain applicable aviation security
procedures and answer any other security-related questions.

Interested persons can contact the Center by phone toll-free at
(888) 774-1361.  The Center is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Special Packages

Every package can always use a little stuffed animal.  Soldiers love to get them ~ they are warm and friendly ~ they remind soldiers of home ~ and they can be shared with the local children where our soldiers are stationed.

'Special Packages' can be sent for 'Special Days'   Here are some examples:

BIRTHDAYS

Send a Birthday Party in a box! There are recipes for 'cakes in a jar' ~ don't forget the candles!!!  Make a tape of your voice ~ send pictures of family at home ~ make a video ~ don't forget to sing 'Happy Birthday'!!!  Pack enough joyous items for your loved one and others that will be there ~ party hats lift moral, noise makers, even decorations to share!!  Don't forget the balloons ~ cards from friends (especially the children in the family) ~ special birthday poems ~ coupons for the ice cream shoppe when your loved one gets home!!!  Silk flowers will be wonderful for the lady soldiers ~ party shoppes will have something special for everyone!!

VALENTINE'S DAY

Valentine's will be a wonderful day for a 'special box' ~ get those heart decorations, cards, streamers ~ you name it, everyone will find joy in sending and in receiving a box for a day of love!!  Candy hearts with the special messages ~ poems and pictures ~ special Valentine's 'I love you' treasures found near the check outs at stores!  Make a happy day, no matter how far away someone is.

CHRISTMAS

What better day to be reminded of the warmth, love, and care of home!!  There are so many things that can be given in the special Christmas box.  Christmas Stockings are wonderful for soldiers to be able to hang around them!  And don't forget the tree!!  There are many that come in a minature size (some even coming apart so they can be mailed in a smaller package) ~ and all need those 'special decorations'!!!  Christmas CDs and DVDs, battery operated toys (don't forget the batteries) ~ just make sure there is enough 'love and care' to be shared with everyone!!!

 

You get the idea ~ what kind of 'Special Packages' can you come up with for your special soldier and those who are serving with him or her?  Every family has their own special days!



 

Military Time Chart

Standard Time Military Time
Midnight 00:00 Midnight 00:00
1:00 AM 100
2:00 AM 200
3:00 AM 0300
4:00 AM 0400
5:00 AM 0500
6:00 AM 0600
7:00 AM 0700
8:00 AM 0800
9:00 AM 0900
10:00 AM 1000
11:00 AM 1100
Noon 12:00 PM 1200 Noon
1:00 PM 1300
2:00 PM 1400
3:00 PM 1500
4:00 PM 1600
5:00 PM 1700
6:00 PM 1800
7:00 PM 1900
8:00 PM 2000
9:00 PM 2100
10:00 PM 2200
11:00 PM 2300

 

MILITARY RANKS

PAY GRADE

ARMY

MARINE CORPS

NAVY

AIR FORCE

COAST GUARD

CIVILIAN

Enlisted

E-1

PV1

Pvt

SR

AB

SR

E-2

PV2

Pfc

SA

Amn

SA

E-3

PFC

LCpl

SN

A1C

SN

E-4

SPC

Cpl

P03

SrA

P03

E-5

SGT

Sgt

P02

SSgt

P02

E-6

SSG

SSgt

P01

TSgt

P01

E-7

SFC

GySgt

CPO

MSgt

CPO

E-8

MSG

1SG

MSgt

1stSgt

SCPO

SMSgt

SCPO

E-9

SGM

CSM

MGySgt

SgtMaj

MCPO

CMSgt

MCPO

Service

Senior Enlisted Advisors

SMA

SMMC

MCPON

CMSAF

MCPO-CG

Warrant Officers

W-1

W01

WO

--

--

--

W-2

CW2

CWO2

CWO2

--

CWO2

W-3

CW3

CWO3

CWO3

--

CWO3

W-4

CW4

CWO4

CWO4

--

CWO4

W-5

CW5

CWO5

CWO5

--

--

Officer

0-1

2LT

2ndLt

ENS

2d Lt

ENS

GS-7

GS-8

0-2

1LT

1stLt

LTJG

1st Lt

LTJG

GS-9

0-3

CPT

Capt

LT

Capt

LT

GS-10

GS-11

0-4

MAJ

Maj

LCDR

Maj

LCDR

GS-12

0-5

LTC

LtCol

CDR

Lt Col

CDR

GS-13

GS-14

0-6

COL

Col

CAPT

Col

CAPT

GS-15

0-7

BG

BGen

RDML

Brig Gen

RDML

SES

0-8

MG

MajGen

RADM

Maj Gen

RADM

SES

0-9

LTG

LtGen

VADM

Lt Gen

VADM

SES

0-10

GEN

Gen

ADM

Gen

ADM

Note:  The above chart is intended to display the military rank abbreviations.  The civilian equivalence is included as a general comparison and is NOT intended to establish precedence.  SES precedence for civilian employees is based on position and not pay grade.

 

Packing With A THEME

FROM:

Blue Star Mothers Blog http://nhbluestarmothers.blogspot.com/2009/10/care-package-themes.html
Blue Star Mothers of NH  http://www.bluestarmothersofnh.org/

Thank you Katy S. These are great ideas!


"Surviving the Sandstorms" - Eye wash; Nasal spray; Chapstick; Bandana;
Goggles/Sunglasses

"Laundry Load" - Laundry soap (`sample size' or Tide tablets kind) to pack in with their clothes in case there are no washer/dryers; Fabric softener sheets; clean socks and undershirts; Febreeze

"Lotta Java" - Tea; Cocoa; Coffee singles; creamer; sugar; International Coffee tins; cookies for dunking in coffee

"Thanks a Million!!" - Things that may "seem" expensive. Ex: Grey Poupon; electronic game of "Who wants to be a Millionaire?"

"Hang in There!" - Stuffed animal monkey; Banana bread; Banana chips; Banana pudding (the kind that doesn't have to be refrigerated); Monkey's in a Barrel game; card with a monkey on it

"A Day at the Beach!" - Sunscreen; beach towel; beach snacks; flip flop sandals (shower shoes); aloe vera gel

"Medicine Cabinet" - Aspirin; band-aids; Neosporin cream; A&D ointment; cold medicine; alka seltzer; Rolaids; etc

"Staying Healthy" - Nutrition/health bars (ex: Powerbar; Tigers Milk; Myoplex); vitamins; Nutri-grain bars; Gatorade or other sports drink (to stay hydrated)

"MRE/Mess Hall Survival Kit" - Restaurant size condiment packs of: BBQ sauce, mustard, ketchup, mayo, relish, salt. Pepper, taco sauce, ranch, cheese in a can dip, etc

"Correspondence Carton" - Notebook paper; stationery; pens; pencils; stickers (who knows they may even play with these!!); envelopes, address book (filled out already of course); camera (with a note to send back once it is full)

"Action Hero's" - Powerbars; squirt guns; Red Bull drinks; small Army figurines; comic books; Gatorade; Red Bull drinks; etc

"To Be A Kid Again" - Silly string; bubbles; small bouncy balls; hacky sacks; brain teaser toys (rubix cube, etc); deck of cards; dominoes; slinky, Frisbee's; Pez w/ dispenser; Nerf balls; sand box toys (pail, small shovel, etc)

"Bathroom in a Box" - TOILET PAPER!!! (the soft stuff); razor refills; foot powder; bars of soap; fresh, clean, soft washcloth; travel size shampoo/conditioner; toothpaste; toothbrush; etc

"Ruck Sack Snack Pack" - Packed full of your loved one's favorite snacks the possibilities are endless. Doritos; M&M's; nuts; chips; dips; crackers; jelly beans; beef jerky; gum; etc

"Breakfast on the GO" - Nutrigrain bars; instant oatmeal cups; small boxes of cereal; pop tarts; Hostess donuts: Otis Spunk Meyer muffins; cocoa; coffee; Tang

"Tube O Tasties" - Just as something different send a package in a tube instead of a square box. Make sure the parameters are acceptable though.

"Stress Reliever" - Back scratcher; bubble wrap; yo-yo's; bubbles; squeezy tension ball

"Sloppy Kisses" - Since we know chocolate melts over there, send a bunch of Hershey's kisses. Bound to be "sloppy kisses"!

"I'm Nuts About You" - Peanuts; cashews; pistachios; peanut butter cookies; any candy or cookies with nuts in them; Nutter Butter's; Peanut Lover's Chex mix; Fiddle Faddle with peanuts

"Rock On" or "Charlie ROCK" - Pop rocks; music cd's

"Chili Today, Hot Tamale" - Hot tamales (candy); small cans of chili; red pepper flakes (like the ones at pizza parlors); salsa sunflower seeds; Cajun flavor Pringles; Spicy chex mix; Boston red hots; peppered beef jerky; taco bell hot sauce packets; Extreme Doritos; chili powder; nacho cheese sauce in a can; Jalape Ritz; Tums/Rolaids

"And this little piggy went to the sandbox" - (Foot care kit)- foot powder; Dr. Scholl's boot inserts; foot lotion; foot file; fresh, clean socks; toe nail clippers; scrub brush; odor eater balls for shoes/boots; foot soaks (either include a small bucket or large Ziploc bags to soak feet it)

"How do you eat your OREOS??!!" - Regular Oreos; peanut butter Oreos; double stuff Oreos; low fat Oreos; chocolate filled Oreos; chocolate covered Oreos; holiday Oreos

"Muchas Gracias¦Nachos Supreme" - Doritos &/or Fritos &/or any corn tortilla chips; Mexican Velveeta; salsa (wrapped in bubble wrap); small can of olives (don't forget the can opener); bean dip; nacho cheese dip; small can of green chilies; jar of jalapenos (wrapped in bubble wrap); taco seasoning; small paper plates or bowls (so they can make their nachos); taco sauce (especially easy are those condiment packets from Taco Bell); You could also send the sauces from the various Mexican dinner kits (they also have tortilla's in those dinner kits that are sealed so they would probably get there without molding or drying out); Taco Bell Nacho Supreme kit

"Sweet Tooth" - Nerds; Gummy Bears; Laffy Taffy; Bubble Gum; Tootsie Rolls; Lolli pops; (any candy that won't melt)

"Pamper Party" (for females) - Feminine hygiene products; shampoo/conditioner; hair barrettes and scrunchies (same color as their hair); facial scrub &/or soap; facial mask; lotion; shower gel; razors; facial moisturizer; tweezers; nail care kit; toner; special facial products (alpha hydroxy; eye cream; etc)

"Congrats on your promotion" - Congratulation party favors; all your loved ones favorites snacks; sparkled cider (wrapped in bubble wrap of course); etc.

"For the Fisherman" - Goldfish crackers; tuna pouches; canned smoked salmon; cans of sardines; gummy worms; Go Fish card game; Field & Streammagazine; electronic fishing rod game; Sponge Bob Square Pants stuffed toy; fishing game toy (made by several different toy companies. Has a small fishing pole with a magnet on the end. Fish have magnets on their mouths)

"Say CHEEEESE!" - Disposable cameras; cheese dip; Doritos; Cheetos; Cheese nips; Better Cheddars; Velveeta

"Kick Back & Relax" - Dominoes; playing cards; magazines; books; music cd's; crossword puzzles; jigsaw puzzles; word searches; hand held electronic games; squirt guns; water balloons; bubbles; hacky sacks; Nerf balls; board games (Axis & Allies, Clue, Trivial Pursuit, etc)

"Christmas in July" - Wrap everything in Christmas wrapping paper; peppermint flavored hard candies

"Italian Stallion" - Italian cheese Ghardetto's; Pizza-licious Pringles; Pepperoni pizza Combo's; small Boboli pizza bread; pizza sauce (for dipping Boboli); canned Ravioli, spaghetti, lasagna, etc

"American Classics" - Pez with dispensers; Cracker Jacks; Lifesavers; Necco Wafers; Pop Rocks; Nerds; Good & Plenty; Candy Necklaces; Candy cigarettes

"Deployed on Thanksgiving" - Canned turkey; instant mashed potato cups; hard breadsticks; gravy in a jar (wrapped in bubble wrap); Hostess apple pies; small can of corn (or other veggie); something special to cheer them up on Thanksgiving (pictures from home; magazines; tape recorded tape; small scrapbook; etc)

 Military Woman     http://www.militarywoman.org/

 

Military City.com
 

  

The USO is celebrating their 65th anniversary!
 
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Military Discounts and Special Offers
 

  

Click Here On The Picture To Take You To One Of The Largest Military Websites!

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National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Department of Veterans Affairs

Coping When a Family Member Has Been Called to War

A National Center for PTSD Fact Sheet
by Julia Whealin, Ph.D. & Ilona Pivar, Ph.D.

When a family member goes to war, the impact upon those left at home can be daunting. There is often tremendous uncertainty about the dangers that exist where the loved one is being deployed and about when he or she will return. Concerns may be intensified as TV news programs emphasize threats, such as chemical or biological warfare, scud missile attack, and environmental destruction. In addition to having to adjust to the loved one’s absence, the families of those who have been deployed may live in constant fear of harm to their loved one.

The Emotional Cycle of Deployment

When a loved one is deployed, fluctuating emotions such as pride, anger, fear, and bitterness can add to the distress of uncertainty. Various emotions continue during the person’s deployment, based upon changes the family encounters as they adjust to the departure and absence of their family member. The following is a typical cycle of emotions:

·        The cycle begins with a short period of intense emotions, such as fear and anger, when news of deployment is released to the family.

·        As departure grows closer, a period of detachment and withdrawal may occur. In preparation for the physical separation, family members may experience intense emotions.

·        A period of sadness, loneliness, and tension begins at the time of departure; this can last several weeks or longer.

·        Following the first weeks of deployment, families begin to adjust to a new routine without the deployed service member.

·        As the end of the deployment period draws near, tension continues as the family anticipates changes related to the return of the service member.

When Families Have Difficulties

Deployment will be a challenging time for family members who are left behind:

·        In addition to patriotism and pride, feelings of fear and anger are also common. The mixture of these feelings may be confusing, particularly for children.

·        If a family already has difficulty communicating with one another, such problems may worsen during times of stress, and add strain to the family.

·        Those deployed may downplay the potential for danger in order to protect the family from excessive worry, which can make family members feel their feelings of fear are being invalidated.

When there is an impending crisis such as a war deployment, some families may need to be become more aware of their style of relating to and supporting each other.

·        Emotions can run high during the deployment, and people can turn fear, anger, and other emotions against those they care for the most.

·        When certain family members, particularly children, do express their fear or anger, families should not view these feelings as too sensitive or as an annoyance. Instead, realize that those feelings may be emotions that everyone shares, but perhaps not everyone has acknowledged those feelings yet.

·        Alternatively, it is possible that members will feel as though their emotions are numb during the time before a departure. This is because these individuals may be preparing emotionally for the separation from the family; it does not mean these family members don't care. Sometimes the stronger the numbing, the stronger the emotions underlying the feelings.

Fear of the Unknown

Communication with the deployed family member during war may be minimal. When the family knows little about where the service member is being deployed, they may try to obtain any information they can about that area of the world. Often, family members will turn to the media for this information. When families do this, they may be faced with media speculation that emphasizes frightening commentary and images. Online discussion groups can also be a source of unreliable information that creates needless distress. Learn what you can about the issues from trustworthy resources, such as public libraries and published books. Put the risk in proportion so that you are in a better position to think realistically. For example, remind yourself that even though you hear regularly about deaths in the military, the vast majority of deployed troops are not harmed.

Changes in Family Structure

A spouse left at home during deployment will be faced with work tasks that s/he may be unfamiliar with. Juggling finances, lawn care, car and home repair, cooking, and raising children can lead to stress overload and exhaustion. Families that are flexible regarding roles and responsibilities are better able to adapt to deployment stresses. It's important for family members to support each other in these new responsibilities and to get outside help as much as possible. Your military contingency officer and your employee assistance program can provide you with childcare referrals, including before- and after-school programs and in-home care.

Special Concerns When the Primary Caretaker Is Deployed

Many more women are now participating in war-related deployments. During Operation Desert Shield/Storm, more than 40,000 women were deployed, thousands of them mothers with dependent children. Research on work-family conflict among active duty women indicates:

·        The struggle between work and family duties is a source of parenting distress.

·        Women who were supported by their husbands in their marital and parenting roles had fewer work-family conflicts, less distress, or less depression.

·        Families that are flexible regarding roles and responsibilities are better able to adapt to deployment stresses.

·        Getting information about difficult issues, such as separation anxiety, discipline, raising adolescents, and sibling rivalry, may help make care easier.

Special Concerns for Reservists

Reservists have added concerns pertaining to the families and jobs left behind. In some cases, military deployment can create financial hardships due to a loss of income. Sometimes the household financial manager is the one who is deployed and the remaining head of the household is left to manage the finances, perhaps without much practice. The government has developed many services and programs to assist you and your family with these challenges during the predeployment, deployment, and reunification stages. There are groups that can help with the development of family emergency plans, family care plans, and personal financial management.

Suggestions for Families of Those Going to War

The following are suggestions to help you manage the stress of having a family member deployed for war-related duties:

1.      Take time to listen to each other. Know that deployment will be a painful and frightening time, particularly for children. Spend time listening to family members without judging or criticizing what they say. People may need to just express themselves during this time. The more family members can communicate with one another, the less long-term strain there will be on the family.

2.      Limit exposure to news media programs. Families should minimize exposure to anxiety-arousing media related to the war. News programs often emphasize fearful content and frightening images to create a "story." Watching a lot of TV news programs, for example, can create needless distress. When children worry about war, let them know that the war is far away. Acknowledge children's fears, and let them know that parents, teachers, and police are here to protect them.

3.      Remember the deployed member is still a part of the family. Find ways to keep a symbolic representation of the deployed member visible to the family. Keep photographs of your loved one in prominent locations. Get children's help in keeping a family journal of each day's events for the deployed member to look at when he or she returns.

4.      Understand feelings. Emotions such as fear, anger, and feeling "numb" are normal and common reactions to stress. Family members need to make sure these emotions aren't turned against one another in frustration. It will help family members manage tension if you share feelings, recognize that they are normal, and realize that most family members feel the same way.

5.      Spend time with people. Coping with stressful events is easier when in the company of caring friends. Ask for support from your family, friends, church, or other community group.

6.      Join or develop support groups. Forming support groups for the spouses of deployed military personnel helps spouses cope with separation from their loved ones. Peer-support groups, led by spouses of deployed service members, can be a tremendous aid to family functioning. Spouses can share ideas with each other, trade childcare or other responsibilities, and encourage each other if they are feeling taxed.

7.      Keep up routines. Try to stick to everyday routines. Familiar habits can be very comforting.

8.      Take time out for fun. Don't forget to do things that feel good to you. Take a walk, spend time with your pets, or play a game you enjoy.

9.      Help others. It is beneficial for everyone to find ways you and your family can productively channel energy. Helping other families and organizing neighborhood support groups or outings can help everyone involved.

10.  Self-care. The more emotionally nurturing and stable the remaining caretaker is, the less stress the children will feel. However, trying to "do it all" can lead to exhaustion. Signs of caregiver stress include feeling as though you are unable to cope, feeling constantly exhausted, or feeling as though you no longer care about anything. It is especially important for caretakers to devote time to themselves, exercise, and get plenty of rest.

11.  Get professional help if needed. When stress becomes overwhelming, don't be afraid to seek professional help. Ongoing difficulties such as exhaustion, apathy, worry, sleeplessness, bad dreams, irritability, or anger-outbursts warrant the attention of a professional counselor. The military employment assistance program provides free counseling for family members impacted by the stress of deployment. Contingency planning personnel are available on bases around the country to help families handle stress related to deployment.

12.  Use military outreach programs. Military outreach programs are in place to help families prevent social isolation. Interventions for military families are especially important for younger families and those without a prior history of deployments. Group leaders are trained to (1) assist in the grief process that a family goes through when a spouse is deployed, (2) teach coping skills to deal with indefinite separations, and (3) help spouses plan a family reunion.

Conclusion

War brings about difficult stressors for families of deployed service members. Mixed feelings about the deployment are common, and emotions tend to fluctuate over the course of the deployment. It is most important to take added steps during this time to take care of yourself and your family. Also, seek help from others around you who will understand, including friends, family members, or other families who have a member deployed.

Related Fact Sheets

Managing grief

Information about the course of bereavement, the treatment of bereaved individuals, and complications of bereavement

Talking with children about war

How do children understand what war means? How can adults best address the concerns of children?

The effect of PTSD on families

Provides information about the effects of PTSD on family members, and how to cope with the effects

War and families

How traumatic stress reactions can affect families

Web site links

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs)
The Army recognizes that helping families is its moral obligation and in its best interest. Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are an organization of officers, enlisted soldiers, civilians, and family members who volunteer to provide mutual social and emotional support, outreach services, and information to their fellow soldiers and family members in a local area. For information contact your unit, or if you need help in locating family assistance, contact the Army-wide Family Liaison Office or call toll-free 1-800-833-6622.

Selected References

Black, W. G. (1993). Military-induced family separation: A stress reduction intervention. Social Work, 38, 273–280.

Gimbel, C., & Booth, A. (1994). Why does military combat experience adversely affect marital relations? Journal of Marriage and Family, 56, 691–703.

Pincus, S. H., House, R., Christenson, J., & Adler, L. E. (2001). The emotional cycle of deployment: A military family perspective. U.S. Army Medical Department Journal, 4/5/6, 15–23.

Van Breda, A. D. (1999). Developing resilience to routine separations: An occupational social work intervention. The Journal of Contemporary Human Services, 80, 597–605.

Vinokur, A. D., Pierce, P. F., & Buck, C. L. (1999). Work-family conflicts of women in the Air force: Their influence on mental health and functioning. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 20, 865–878.

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Salute American Heroes
 
 

 

FOREVER CHANGED -- Military families are urged to face facts:

Soldiers will be different when they return.

 

 

 

Story here... http://www.boston.com/
news/local/articles/2006/08/27/forever_changed/ 

Story below:

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

Forever changed

Military families are urged to face facts: Soldiers will be different when they return

By Peter Schworm, Globe Staff

Cathy Carney dreams of her husband's return from Iraq in loving detail. He steps through a door, and she runs toward him, leaping into his arms for a deep kiss and tearful embrace. He doesn't say much, just ``Hi, Cath," but smiles ear to ear, the way he did on their wedding day. All around them, mothers are hugging their sons, and fathers are scooping up daughters, but she sees only him. She clings to him and, for the longest time, doesn't let go.

During Jack Carney's year long deployment in Iraq, she has replayed the scene in her mind over and over again. She turns to it when she misses him the most, even if it sometimes makes her miss him more.

But, at a recent meeting of a family readiness group at an Army Reserve Center in Brockton, a program trainer cautioned against such idyllic images of soldiers' homecomings. After the initial joy of the reunion, reservists and their families often struggle to pick up the threads of their shared lives, he warned. Many soldiers returning from war experience a rocky transition to civilian life, and that strain can permeate entire families. Couples, in particular, find it hard to regain their footing, and shouldn't be disappointed if the old magic doesn't return overnight.

``Don't expect perfect in the reunion process," said Richard Croucher, the director of family programs for the 94th Regional Readiness Command, which oversees readiness groups across New England. ``To think you're both going to continue just the way you were, it's not going to happen. You're both different people."

Family readiness groups are volunteer support networks for relatives of service members who typically meet monthly to share experiences and advice, both on coping with soldiers' absences and preparing for their return.

The Brockton group is affiliated with the Army Reserve's 220th Transportation Company, a unit based in Keene, N.H., that was deployed to Iraq a year ago. The unit is poised to return home from Iraq soon, possibly within two weeks, and relatives are counting the days until the homecoming.

The hardships military families endure during deployment receive more attention, but the difficulties they encounter when soldiers return are often just as profound, military and civilian counselors say. Taken together, the toll of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are potentially causing ``secondary trauma" for millions of Americans on the home front, said Kenneth Reich , codirector of a group of volunteer therapists called SOFAR that has partnered with the Army Reserve to counsel families of several reserve units, including the 220th.

``The scope is staggering," said Reich, president of the Psychoanalytic Couple and Family Institute of New England, SOFAR's umbrella organization. ``There's a real ripple effect on the families."

Reich started SOFAR -- it stands for Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists -- last year after extensive negotiations with the military, and is now coordinating with groups of mental health professionals across the country to broaden the effort. SOFAR, whose members usually meet with small groups of reservists' relatives, including children, is scheduled to begin working with the Massachusetts National Guard in October, and is also developing a program to train teachers to help children of men and women in the services.

With so many combat soldiers returning from Iraq with serious psychological problems, millions of their loved ones are dealing with the repercussions. Reich said he is struck by the depth of military families' resilience, but also of their hardships. ``The tail of trauma is a long one," he said.

Croucher and Reich said there is a growing recognition that military families, particularly those of reservists, need counseling before and during soldiers' return to ease the often-jarring reentry to their former lives. A National Military Family Association survey released in March found that military families experience high levels of anxiety, fatigue, and stress, and called for increased assistance to help families adjust after deployments.

Jaine Darwin, a Cambridge psychoanalyst and SOFAR codirector, said that while the public commonly perceives soldiers' returns as ``VE Day in Times Square," the post deployment transition is usually daunting.

Essentially, a new father or mother is coming home to a family that has also changed, she said. ``You can't take someone whose life has been in constant danger, drop them back home, and expect everything to be rosy right away."

Darwin said that families' daily exposure to intense stress -- the nightmares, erratic behavior, and emotional distance -- can be traumatizing, and hopes that counseling families will help prevent soldiers' children from incurring ``intergenerational trauma." SOFAR plans to continue counseling family members for several months after units have returned.

Mel Tapper , the returning combat veteran coordinator for the Boston area, who also works with National Guard readiness groups, said that families who pray each day for their soldier's safe return find it hard to think of anything beyond that point.

``But, after the initial euphoria, you have to deal with the reality," he said.

Matt Cary , president of the Washington-based advocacy group, Veterans and Military Families for Progress, said he is lobbying for expanded services for military families after deployment, noting high divorce rates among military couples.

Nancy Lessin , a Boston resident who cofounded Military Families Speak Out, which opposes the war, said that reunions are invariably bittersweet because soldiers return fundamentally changed.

``No one comes back from this war safe and sound," she said. ``Our loved ones who left do not come back."

In Brockton, a strong kinship pervades the room at the Army Reserve Center as members share smiles, empathetic looks, and nervous laughs. No one mentions the war, except to ask how a loved one is doing, and whether they've been able to get through on the phone. They want nothing more than to have their spouses and children safely beside them again, but they understand that reconnecting will take time.

``When they get back, it's wonderful, but everything's changed," said Lillian Connolly , the wife of an Army staff sergeant, Joseph Connolly Jr., and the readiness group leader. ``They don't know what the kids eat, what their bedtime is. You adjust to them being gone and suddenly it's, `` `Hi, honey, I'm home.' "

SOFAR and the group plan to keep meeting after the unit returns. When the unit returned from its first tour, families felt unprepared to handle the anxiety, paranoia, and restlessness many soldiers experienced. This time, relatives believe they will be able to spot the warning signs and have fewer illusions that their lives will resume without a hitch.

Connolly said members started preparing for the unit's return ``as soon as they left," to minimize the readjustment, and Croucher, who suffered post traumatic stress disorder after serving in Vietnam, counsels patience.

``It takes at least as long as the deployment for you both to get your nervous system back to normal," Croucher told the group. Many soldiers return home wary and withdrawn, hesitant to show affection, he said.

``They're still soldiers," he said. ``They're not husbands and parents yet."

Carney, a 44-year-old Canton resident, said she is relieved the group will continue its meetings, and that she has tried to remain ``cautious about my expectations" despite her excitement that a year that has ``felt like five" is nearly over.

As the meeting wrapped up, Croucher urged the group to call if they see signs of erratic behavior.

``Only time will bring your soldier back to you. Remember that."



Peter Schworm can be reached at schworm@globe.com .

 

 

MOTHER OF AN AMERICAN SOLDIER
Author Unknown

You see me every day going about life as usual - or so it appears. I rub shoulders with you at work. I shop at Wal-Mart and the grocery store. I fill my car at the corner gas station. You might see me anywhere. Don't be deceived: My life has not been "normal" for months. I am the mother of an American soldier.

Although I continue the routines of life, I do so with a burdened heart and distracted mind. There are some tell-tale signs of who I am.

I'm the one with the frayed yellow ribbon pinned on my clothing. It was fresh and new when my son first deployed months ago. Even though the war is supposedly over, my son is in a place where bullets and grenades are still killing our soldiers. I am determined to wear my ribbon until he comes home, because it reminds me to pray for him every minute. When you see me wearing that ribbon, please stop and whisper a prayer for him and all the others still there.

My house is the one with the faded yellow ribbons the tree in the yard and one on the mail post. There is an American flag on a pole attached to the front porch, and a small red-and-white banner with a blue star in the middle in my window. When my son gave this to me before he left, I told him that I never wanted to cover the blue star
with a gold one. Gold Star Mothers are the ones whose sons come home in body bags.

When you drive by a house of this description, please pray for the son or daughter overseas and for the parents waiting inside for their child to come home.

To those of you who have posted yellow ribbons at your house or in the windows of your schools, thank you. It warms my heart every time I see your expressions of support for our troops.

One of the hardest things about being the mother of an American soldier is living 1,500 miles (how bout 2600 miles!) away from the post of my son's unit. Wives usually live on or near the fort, where
they can glean support from others in the same situation. But a mother may live across the nation, so she feels totally alone.

Letters rarely make their way home, and if they do, it is weeks after they were written. We go more than a month without hearing anything; then we might get a short phone call. E-mail is out of the question most of the time.

Every week is like a rollercoaster ride that I want to get off. When I read a soldier has been killed and his name has not been released pending notification of kin, restlessness, depression and insomnia rule my life until 24 hours have passed and the men in dress uniforms have not appeared at my door. I pray constantly they will never come.

When you hold your baby close, remember we mothers of American soldiers held our babies, too. Now our "babies" are putting themselves in harm's way for your babies.

And if you see a woman at the store buying tuna and crackers, beef jerky, powdered Gatorade, baby wipes and potted meat, check to see if
she is wearing a yellow ribbon. If so, stop and pray for her. She is probably the mother of an American soldier, getting ready to send her
child another "care package." You may see tears in her eyes or dark circles under them.

I am there among you, trying to carry on some semblance of a normal life. Like so many others,
I am the mother of an American soldier.

 

Gold Star Mom

The banner was small
But the star was large,
The color of a blue, night sky.
She hung it in the window
With trembling fingers
And tried hard not to cry.
He was so young to go far away
As all soldiers have to do.
She knew that danger
Lurked everywhere,
As she touched the star of blue.
The weeks went by
The months rolled on
She knew he would not die.
Her faith in God held her head up high.
In her heart she sang a song.
But the battles raged.
The news was not good
Why did so many have to die?
The thought made her cold
And she felt terribly old
As the day came that she faced
With dread.
When a knock on the door
Shattered her life evermore,
And the blue star turned to gold.

--Esther B. (Campbell) Gates 

Written in memory of her son, Specialist Keith Allen Campbell

 

 

The U.S. Military - Blue Star Mother Prayer

Give me the greatness of heart to see, The difference between duty & his/her/their love for me. Give me understanding so that I may Know, When duty calls him/her/them, he/she/they must go. Give me a task to do each day, To fill the time when he/she's/ while they're away. When he/she's/they're in a foreign land, Keep him/her/them safe in your loving hand. And Lord, when duty is in the field, Please protect him/her/them and be his/her/their shield. And Lord, when deployment is so long, Please stay with me and keep me strong.
 
 
 

  I'm Invisible

 It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?"

Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.

      I'm invisible.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this?
Can you tie this? Can you open this?


Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a
clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What
number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30 ,
please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.

She's going - she's going - she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this."

It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:

 * No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.

 * These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.

 * They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tin y bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and  asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it."  And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."


At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.  I keep  the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.   And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we ha ve built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
 
 

 

A GOLD STAR MOTHER
For Ann Hampton, Gold Star Mother of Captain Kimberly Hampton

War has taken her only daughter
in the name of freedom in a foreign land
shot down in a Kiowa OH-58 helicopter...
so young... felled by an Iraqi enemies hand...
awakened while living her dream...
Death had not been in her scheme
Ann Hampton... a Gold Star Mother
but a child... this one has no other
America saluted her with a gold star
Now she sits alone... her thoughts afar
back to the youth of her only child...
when her tears did not have to fall...
back when her daughter had not given all
Through tightly close eyes... her happiness amiss
for gone forever are her days of maternal bliss...
her tears seep down... silent... unbidden...
on a mother's arms... cradling emptiness...

©Copyright January 12, 2004 by Faye Sizemore

 

 

 

IF I EVER GO TO WAR MOM

If I ever go to war Mom, Please don't be afraid.
There are some things I must do, To keep the promise that I made.
I'm sure there will be some heartache, And I know that you'll cry tears,
But your son is a Soldier now, Mom, There is nothing you should fear.


If I ever go to war Dad, I know that you'll be strong.
But you won't have to worry, Cause you taught me right from wrong.
You kept me firmly on the ground, yet still taught me how to fly.
Your son is a Soldier now Dad, I love you Hooah, Even if I die.


If I ever go to war Bro, There are some things I want to say.
You've always had my back, and I know it's my time to repay.
You'll always be my daybreak, through all of life's dark clouds,
Your brother is a Soldier now, Bro, I promise I'll make you proud.


If I ever go to war Sis, don't you worry bout me,
I always looked out for you, but I can't do that anymore,
Cause I'm a big bro to all in America.
I love you so much and you know that, Your brothers a soldier now Sis,
So wipe your eyes, I'll be fine even if I die.

If I ever go to war my Friends, We'll never be apart,
Though we may not meet again, I'll hold you in my heart.
Remember all the times we had, Don't let your memories cease,
Your friend is a Soldier now, Dear Friend, And I'll die to bring you peace.

And when I go to heaven, And see that pearly gate,
I'll gladly decline entrance, Then stand my post and wait.
I'm sorry Sir I can't come in, I'm sort of in a bind,
You see I'm still a Soldier Sir, So I can't leave them behind.

By PFC Jonathan W. Guffey - Alpha Company
101st Airborne 2/506th Infantry Air Assault - Iraq 2006
10 July 2006

 

 

National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Department of Veterans Affairs

Coping When a Family Member Has Been Called to War

A National Center for PTSD Fact Sheet
by Julia Whealin, Ph.D. & Ilona Pivar, Ph.D.

When a family member goes to war, the impact upon those left at home can be daunting. There is often tremendous uncertainty about the dangers that exist where the loved one is being deployed and about when he or she will return. Concerns may be intensified as TV news programs emphasize threats, such as chemical or biological warfare, scud missile attack, and environmental destruction. In addition to having to adjust to the loved one’s absence, the families of those who have been deployed may live in constant fear of harm to their loved one.

The Emotional Cycle of Deployment

When a loved one is deployed, fluctuating emotions such as pride, anger, fear, and bitterness can add to the distress of uncertainty. Various emotions continue during the person’s deployment, based upon changes the family encounters as they adjust to the departure and absence of their family member. The following is a typical cycle of emotions:

·        The cycle begins with a short period of intense emotions, such as fear and anger, when news of deployment is released to the family.

·        As departure grows closer, a period of detachment and withdrawal may occur. In preparation for the physical separation, family members may experience intense emotions.

·        A period of sadness, loneliness, and tension begins at the time of departure; this can last several weeks or longer.

·        Following the first weeks of deployment, families begin to adjust to a new routine without the deployed service member.

·        As the end of the deployment period draws near, tension continues as the family anticipates changes related to the return of the service member.

When Families Have Difficulties

Deployment will be a challenging time for family members who are left behind:

·        In addition to patriotism and pride, feelings of fear and anger are also common. The mixture of these feelings may be confusing, particularly for children.

·        If a family already has difficulty communicating with one another, such problems may worsen during times of stress, and add strain to the family.

·        Those deployed may downplay the potential for danger in order to protect the family from excessive worry, which can make family members feel their feelings of fear are being invalidated.

When there is an impending crisis such as a war deployment, some families may need to be become more aware of their style of relating to and supporting each other.

·        Emotions can run high during the deployment, and people can turn fear, anger, and other emotions against those they care for the most.

·        When certain family members, particularly children, do express their fear or anger, families should not view these feelings as too sensitive or as an annoyance. Instead, realize that those feelings may be emotions that everyone shares, but perhaps not everyone has acknowledged those feelings yet.

·        Alternatively, it is possible that members will feel as though their emotions are numb during the time before a departure. This is because these individuals may be preparing emotionally for the separation from the family; it does not mean these family members don't care. Sometimes the stronger the numbing, the stronger the emotions underlying the feelings.

Fear of the Unknown

Communication with the deployed family member during war may be minimal. When the family knows little about where the service member is being deployed, they may try to obtain any information they can about that area of the world. Often, family members will turn to the media for this information. When families do this, they may be faced with media speculation that emphasizes frightening commentary and images. Online discussion groups can also be a source of unreliable information that creates needless distress. Learn what you can about the issues from trustworthy resources, such as public libraries and published books. Put the risk in proportion so that you are in a better position to think realistically. For example, remind yourself that even though you hear regularly about deaths in the military, the vast majority of deployed troops are not harmed.

Changes in Family Structure

A spouse left at home during deployment will be faced with work tasks that s/he may be unfamiliar with. Juggling finances, lawn care, car and home repair, cooking, and raising children can lead to stress overload and exhaustion. Families that are flexible regarding roles and responsibilities are better able to adapt to deployment stresses. It's important for family members to support each other in these new responsibilities and to get outside help as much as possible. Your military contingency officer and your employee assistance program can provide you with childcare referrals, including before- and after-school programs and in-home care.

Special Concerns When the Primary Caretaker Is Deployed

Many more women are now participating in war-related deployments. During Operation Desert Shield/Storm, more than 40,000 women were deployed, thousands of them mothers with dependent children. Research on work-family conflict among active duty women indicates:

·        The struggle between work and family duties is a source of parenting distress.

·        Women who were supported by their husbands in their marital and parenting roles had fewer work-family conflicts, less distress, or less depression.

·        Families that are flexible regarding roles and responsibilities are better able to adapt to deployment stresses.

·        Getting information about difficult issues, such as separation anxiety, discipline, raising adolescents, and sibling rivalry, may help make care easier.

Special Concerns for Reservists

Reservists have added concerns pertaining to the families and jobs left behind. In some cases, military deployment can create financial hardships due to a loss of income. Sometimes the household financial manager is the one who is deployed and the remaining head of the household is left to manage the finances, perhaps without much practice. The government has developed many services and programs to assist you and your family with these challenges during the predeployment, deployment, and reunification stages. There are groups that can help with the development of family emergency plans, family care plans, and personal financial management.

Suggestions for Families of Those Going to War

The following are suggestions to help you manage the stress of having a family member deployed for war-related duties:

1.      Take time to listen to each other. Know that deployment will be a painful and frightening time, particularly for children. Spend time listening to family members without judging or criticizing what they say. People may need to just express themselves during this time. The more family members can communicate with one another, the less long-term strain there will be on the family.

2.      Limit exposure to news media programs. Families should minimize exposure to anxiety-arousing media related to the war. News programs often emphasize fearful content and frightening images to create a "story." Watching a lot of TV news programs, for example, can create needless distress. When children worry about war, let them know that the war is far away. Acknowledge children's fears, and let them know that parents, teachers, and police are here to protect them.

3.      Remember the deployed member is still a part of the family. Find ways to keep a symbolic representation of the deployed member visible to the family. Keep photographs of your loved one in prominent locations. Get children's help in keeping a family journal of each day's events for the deployed member to look at when he or she returns.

4.      Understand feelings. Emotions such as fear, anger, and feeling "numb" are normal and common reactions to stress. Family members need to make sure these emotions aren't turned against one another in frustration. It will help family members manage tension if you share feelings, recognize that they are normal, and realize that most family members feel the same way.

5.      Spend time with people. Coping with stressful events is easier when in the company of caring friends. Ask for support from your family, friends, church, or other community group.

6.      Join or develop support groups. Forming support groups for the spouses of deployed military personnel helps spouses cope with separation from their loved ones. Peer-support groups, led by spouses of deployed service members, can be a tremendous aid to family functioning. Spouses can share ideas with each other, trade childcare or other responsibilities, and encourage each other if they are feeling taxed.

7.      Keep up routines. Try to stick to everyday routines. Familiar habits can be very comforting.

8.      Take time out for fun. Don't forget to do things that feel good to you. Take a walk, spend time with your pets, or play a game you enjoy.

9.      Help others. It is beneficial for everyone to find ways you and your family can productively channel energy. Helping other families and organizing neighborhood support groups or outings can help everyone involved.

10.  Self-care. The more emotionally nurturing and stable the remaining caretaker is, the less stress the children will feel. However, trying to "do it all" can lead to exhaustion. Signs of caregiver stress include feeling as though you are unable to cope, feeling constantly exhausted, or feeling as though you no longer care about anything. It is especially important for caretakers to devote time to themselves, exercise, and get plenty of rest.

11.  Get professional help if needed. When stress becomes overwhelming, don't be afraid to seek professional help. Ongoing difficulties such as exhaustion, apathy, worry, sleeplessness, bad dreams, irritability, or anger-outbursts warrant the attention of a professional counselor. The military employment assistance program provides free counseling for family members impacted by the stress of deployment. Contingency planning personnel are available on bases around the country to help families handle stress related to deployment.

12.  Use military outreach programs. Military outreach programs are in place to help families prevent social isolation. Interventions for military families are especially important for younger families and those without a prior history of deployments. Group leaders are trained to (1) assist in the grief process that a family goes through when a spouse is deployed, (2) teach coping skills to deal with indefinite separations, and (3) help spouses plan a family reunion.

Conclusion

War brings about difficult stressors for families of deployed service members. Mixed feelings about the deployment are common, and emotions tend to fluctuate over the course of the deployment. It is most important to take added steps during this time to take care of yourself and your family. Also, seek help from others around you who will understand, including friends, family members, or other families who have a member deployed.

Related Fact Sheets

Managing grief

Information about the course of bereavement, the treatment of bereaved individuals, and complications of bereavement

Talking with children about war

How do children understand what war means? How can adults best address the concerns of children?

The effect of PTSD on families

Provides information about the effects of PTSD on family members, and how to cope with the effects

War and families

How traumatic stress reactions can affect families

Web site links

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs)
The Army recognizes that helping families is its moral obligation and in its best interest. Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are an organization of officers, enlisted soldiers, civilians, and family members who volunteer to provide mutual social and emotional support, outreach services, and information to their fellow soldiers and family members in a local area. For information contact your unit, or if you need help in locating family assistance, contact the Army-wide Family Liaison Office or call toll-free 1-800-833-6622.

Selected References

Black, W. G. (1993). Military-induced family separation: A stress reduction intervention. Social Work, 38, 273–280.

Gimbel, C., & Booth, A. (1994). Why does military combat experience adversely affect marital relations? Journal of Marriage and Family, 56, 691–703.

Pincus, S. H., House, R., Christenson, J., & Adler, L. E. (2001). The emotional cycle of deployment: A military family perspective. U.S. Army Medical Department Journal, 4/5/6, 15–23.

Van Breda, A. D. (1999). Developing resilience to routine separations: An occupational social work intervention. The Journal of Contemporary Human Services, 80, 597–605.

Vinokur, A. D., Pierce, P. F., & Buck, C. L. (1999). Work-family conflicts of women in the Air force: Their influence on mental health and functioning. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 20, 865–878.

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Children Of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund
 
 

  

May Every Son and Daughter Watch This
http://parentswish. com/site01/ big.html
 

 

Daughter and Wife


 

Author: Royse Sessums


 

I want to be home
with my daughter and wife
I left long ago
I put a hold on my life
My daughter has grown
My wife has stayed true
I pray you both know
I do this for you
My time here was long
but the end now grows near
I'll take my last flights
with a new burning fear
My daughter wont know me
My wife feels betrayed
The decisions I made
a life thrown away
Will they forgive me for leaving
Can they trust me to stay
Will they hold and embrace me
or have I pushed them away
I'm counting the days
til I'm with them once more
So I can start giving the life
the life that I swore
I know that they love me
I know that they care
But the thought of them leaving
Is a thought I cant bare
The count down is over
The day is now here
No more time for the worries
Its time to face all my fears
They run up and hug me
My fears fade away
Their love had not faded
As if I was gone just a day
Now that I'm home
With the loves of my life
I'll cherish the time
With my daughter and wife
 
 

 

SONG
So Brave
A Mother's Tribute To Her Son
 
 
 
 
 

 

COME HOME SOON
 
click here:
 
 
 
 
 

 

The Silent Patriot

Author Unknown

 

A woman for all seasons
A woman for today.
She grows to meet the challenges
And grows along the way.


Her life is not an easy one
With many loads to bear.
She proudly serves with her husband
Yet the uniform he wears.


Although she didn't take the oath
To preserve democracy
She's there each day on the home front
To keep our country free.


She's foreign-born or a country girl,
Diversity you will find.
But to be a Military wife
It takes a special kind.


She's one who keeps on going
Through adversity and pain.
She's the steady, strong foundation
When nothing stays the same.


She's the one who sheds a tear
As Old Glory passes by,
But couldn't give an answer
If you were to ask her why.


Throughout the years, she marches on
Through tears and joy and strife.
She's America's unsung hero-
She's a Military wife.

 

 

 

 

Sisterhood

By Debbie Guisti



I am an Army Wife- A member of that sisterhood of women who have had the courage to watch their men march into battle and the strength to survive until they return. Our sorority knows no rank for we earn our membership with a marriage license, traveling over miles or over nations to begin a new life with our soldier husbands.

Within days, we turn a barren, echoing building into a home, and though our quarters are inevitably white walled and unpapered, we decorate with the treasures of our travels for we shop the markets of the globe. Using hammer and nails, we tack our pictures to the wall, and our roots to the floor as firmly as if we had lived there for a lifetime. We hold a family together by the bootstraps and raise the best of "brats", instilling into them the motto, "Home is Togetherness," whether motel, guest house, apartment, or duplex.

As Army Wives, we soon realize that the only good in "good-bye" is the "hello-again." For as salesmen for freedom, our husbands are often on the road, leaving us behind for a week, a month, an assignment. During the separation, we guard the home front, existing till the homecoming.

Unlike our civilian counterparts, we measure time, not by age, but by tours-married at Knox, a baby born at Bliss, a promotion in Missouri. We plant trees and never see them grew tall, work on projects completed long after our departure, and enhance our community for the betterment of those who come after us. We leave part of us at every stop.

Through experience, we have learned to pack a suitcase, a car, or hold baggage, and live indefinitely from the contents within, and though our fingers are sore from the patches we have sewn and the silver we have shined, our hands are always ready to help those around us.

Women of peace, we pray for a world in harmony, for the flag, that leads our men into battle will also blanket them in death. Yet we are an optimistic group, thinking of the good and forgetting the bad, cherishing yesterday while anticipating tomorrow.

Never rich by monetary standards, our hearts are overflowing with a wealth of experiences common only to those united by the special tradition of military life. We pass our legacy to every Army bride, welcoming with outstretched arms, with love and friendship, from one sister to another, sharing the bounty of our unique, fulfilling Army way of life.

 

 

 

Patriotic Song -- Bring Our Daddy Home
 
 

 

TOBY KEITH

Toby Keith is an American music entertainer who has made numerous visits to the Middle East to encourage and entertain our troops who are serving in the War on Terror.  He has recorded songs giving our military honor and support and he has given of himself to let them know how much their service means to our country. 

Toby has been quoted as saying, "My father was a soldier.  He taught his kids to respect veterans.  It's that respect and the thank-you that we have a military that's in place and ready to defend our nation; our freedom." 

Thank you, Toby, for caring what our men and women are doing for our freedoms and for visiting them in the front line War Zone, on American battleships, stateside, and in our military bases throughout the world.



My son Jim was one of Toby's body guards on one of his trips to Iraq to visit with the front line soldiers serving there.

 

Here We Go Again         
Author unknown


 How many times have I thought that..Here we go again! It seems like we just got here! I don't want to move! I can't do this again! I don't want to leave the friends I just made! I don't want the kids to have to start over!

 Yep! Here we go again!

We have two choices...we can either be Happy or Miserable. I choose the be Happy.And like other military wives the world over, I learn all about the New Post we are going to. I will even make it sound better than it really is, anything to keep the kids happy. I can make any house a home, make the husband and kids happy..but I have to keep ME happy.

When the kids were little, we had just moved to a new post. I didn't know anyone, missing all the friends I had just left. I was miserable, stuck at home while Tom was off doing what soldiers do. I decided then , I have to be more than Tom's wife, more than the kids Mom. I am a Stay at Home Mom by choice, I wouldn't want it any other way, but there had to be more than the play groups or volunteering at the kids school.

I look back on that as my Winter of Discontent. I had serious growing pains for months, had wondered if I would come out the other side married to a soldier.I loved him dearly, but just didn't know if I could keep on moving every few years, starting over somewhere else. What saved US was realizing I had to take care of ME.

My advice to all military wives, whether newlyweds or married for 15 yrs..Find something for YOU. I am an artist, but didn't realize it until I had to decide which way my life would go. I have sold my work from post to post. I have taught classes for money, but at the same time, I have taught them to other wives for free.

Get out there and meet your neighbors. You might be surprised at how many other lonely wives are out there. Espically when the husbands are TDY. Make the first move, sure you will be leaving in a few years, and will hate to say good-gye...but you just might walk right past the best friend you will ever have.

Get involved with your communtiy and your unit. Life long friendships are waiting to happen.

Get out of the house! go explore!

Discover your new city, even if your husband is in the field. I learned Kansas City and the surrounding area with 2 kids strapped in car seats.15 years later, I still get lost and don't think a thing about it. I am WOMAN I can ask for directions.

No matter how bad you think your quarters are, or how bad your rental is...Home is what WE make it. The first thing I do after the boxes are unpacked is get the pictures on the walls as fast as I can. I have put pictures in our Hold Baggage if it was going to take months to get our household goods. 6 months-2 years...it doesn't matter..I have to feel at home.

Get the kids involved with their activities, the sooner they get out there..they sooner they will make friends. Mine are older now, so it takes them a while to find that "Best Friend" but like us, they eventually meet the one! If they see you mope around, wishing you were still living in Va. or where ever..they will too!

I love the military life, love seeing new places, doing new things and meeting new people.Surround yourself with postive people. If you hear someone say..I Hate this post, and the town..run as fast as you can. If you have a special talent, and that means making that cheese cake that melts in your mouth...offer to teach your neighbors how to do it! We are military wives, all in this together.

We will leave Ft.Benning June 2011, and sure, I will be thinking..Here we go again...but I will be excited! I have another Best Friend out there somewhere..I just haven't met her yet.

 

MILITARY RANKS

PAY GRADE

ARMY

MARINE CORPS

NAVY

AIR FORCE

COAST GUARD

CIVILIAN

Enlisted

E-1

PV1

Pvt

SR

AB

SR

E-2

PV2

Pfc

SA

Amn

SA

E-3

PFC

LCpl

SN

A1C

SN

E-4

SPC

Cpl

P03

SrA

P03

E-5

SGT

Sgt

P02

SSgt

P02

E-6

SSG

SSgt

P01

TSgt

P01

E-7

SFC

GySgt

CPO

MSgt

CPO

E-8

MSG

1SG

MSgt

1stSgt

SCPO

SMSgt

SCPO

E-9

SGM

CSM

MGySgt

SgtMaj

MCPO

CMSgt

MCPO

Service

Senior Enlisted Advisors

SMA

SMMC

MCPON

CMSAF

MCPO-CG

Warrant Officers

W-1

W01

WO

--

--

--

W-2

CW2

CWO2

CWO2

--

CWO2

W-3

CW3

CWO3

CWO3

--

CWO3

W-4

CW4

CWO4

CWO4

--

CWO4

W-5

CW5

CWO5

CWO5

--

--

Officer

0-1

2LT

2ndLt

ENS

2d Lt

ENS

GS-7

GS-8

0-2

1LT

1stLt

LTJG

1st Lt

LTJG

GS-9

0-3

CPT

Capt

LT

Capt

LT

GS-10

GS-11

0-4

MAJ

Maj

LCDR

Maj

LCDR

GS-12

0-5

LTC

LtCol

CDR

Lt Col

CDR

GS-13

GS-14

0-6

COL

Col

CAPT

Col

CAPT

GS-15

0-7

BG

BGen

RDML

Brig Gen

RDML

SES

0-8

MG

MajGen

RADM

Maj Gen

RADM

SES

0-9

LTG

LtGen

VADM

Lt Gen

VADM

SES

0-10

GEN

Gen

ADM

Gen

ADM

Note:  The above chart is intended to display the military rank abbreviations.  The civilian equivalence is included as a general comparison and is NOT intended to establish precedence.  SES precedence for civilian employees is based on position and not pay grade.

 What Is The Weather Where Your Soldier Is Stationed?

 

FREE SHIPPING SUPPLIES

The USPS will provide free shipping supplies for those mailing packages to US Service Members.

The United States Postal Service has developed a Care Kit especially
designed for Service members and families.  Call the Supplies
Fulfillment Services center at 1-800-527-1950 (say "Customer Service" to reach a 'live person') Supplies will be delivered to your front door!

Please ask for Care Kit #4.  It contains the following items:

O-BOX4 ~ 5 EACH
O-BOX7 ~ 5 EACH
LABEL 106-A ~ 1 Roll of Tape
FORM 2976-A ~ 15 EACH
FORM 2976-E ~ 15 EACH
MILI-PAC ~ 5 EACH
LABEL 228 ~ 10 EACH

 

PLEASE REMEMBER WHEN MAILING

  • Mail must be addressed to a specific soldier ~ mail to 'any soldier' is no longer accepted due to security reasons.
  • Use the service member’s full name (with or without rank or rating) ~ their military organization or unit ~ and the APO or FPO address.
  • Do not include the country name where your soldier is located in any part of the mailing address.
  • Check with your soldier for any restrictions placed on box size or weight that may have been put in place by their unit commander.
  • There are Military ZIP Code restrictions in place, please always check with the U.S. Postal Service for this information ~ all overseas military ZIP Code restrictions are recorded on their computer terminals and also published in their Postal Bulletin.
  • The cost of mailing to your soldier with an APO or FPO address will be charged to you at the same cost as that of the present rate for domestic mail.
  • APO stands for Army/Air Force Post Office and FPO stands for Fleet Post Office ~ mail to your overseas  soldier routed through an APO or FPO address is processed through the MPSA, which stands for Military Postal Service Agency.
  • Many APO and FPO ZIP code locations require a custom declaration form to be attached to the package ~ these can be picked up at your local U.S. Post Office.
  • There are specific designated overseas locations designated by the Department of Defense (DOD) that allow free postage for those deployed to the area ~ ask your soldiers if they are in a location where they can mail things home without cost to them.
  • The U.S. Postal Service will provide you will mailing boxes, custom forms, and priority mail tape at no cost ~ you can even request that these items be delivered to your home without any charge to you.
  • If you do not use the flat rate boxes which the U.S. Postal Service will provide to you, make sure that if your box has writing, pictures, and other things on it that you cover them so that they do not show when the box is ready to be mailed.
  • Always use tape (preferably clear 2 inch tape - or brown tape) and not string, twine, or cord  to hold the packages closed.
  • Use bubble wrap and/or other materials to keep items packed tightly and not moving around within the box.
  • Answers to other questions you may have can be found online by going to the website for the U. S. Postal Service at: http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/  ~ by calling or visiting your local Post Office ~ or by phoning 1-800-ASK-USPS for the US Postal Service or 1-800-810-6098 for the Military Postal Service Agency.
  • Please remember to place liquids in plastic bags which seal tight.
  • Please do not send items in glass bottles
  • Please separate food and other items (shampoo, hand sanitizer, etc.) well for your soldier's well being.
  • Please do not send chocolate or other foods that will melt, as the temperatures can be extremely high where some soldiers are stationed or where some of the packages will be held.
  • Don't leave batteries inside of items ~ put them in the box separately ~ items can 'start' during travel if batteries are already inserted into items.
  • Phone cards 'can' be a good idea ~ however, you must have specific cards.  The best place to purchase phone cards that will work for your soldier would be at a military base PX.
  • Every country has restrictions on incoming mail ~ prohibited in the countries where our service members are serving in OIF and OEF are:  pork or pork by-products, obscene items or articles (pictures, cards, films, books, etc.), nude or semi-nude pornographic material, unauthorized political material, and bulk quantities of faith materials (unless intended for the personal use of the addressee).   

 What Time Is It Where Your Soldier Is Stationed?

 US SOLDIER