So, if you can't send letters, or care packages, what can you do to help show your support? There are plenty of ways:
The Army has developed a web site where people can send an electronic message of support to soldiers who are serving in the "War on Terrorism." This includes soldiers deployed to the Gulf, Afghanistan, and other areas.
The Department of Defense has established the <FONT color=#660066>Defend America web site with stories showing what individuals, companies, and corporations have done to show support to our troops.
Operation USO Care Package. You can buy a "care package," which will be delivered to a deployed servicemember with a personal note from you. These care packages are purchased and delivered by the USO (United Service Organization) with permission and support from the Department of Defense.
Send a PX/BX Gift Certificate to a wounded servicemember. Anyone can purchase a gift certificate from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), and ask that it be donated to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. This is the medical facility where all servicemembers wounded in the Gulf or Afghanistan are treated before they are transported back to the states. The certificates donated will be redeemed for toiletries, sweats, undergarments, socks, pre-paid calling cards and other items of convenience or necessity for our wounded heros.
Donate a Commissary Gift Certificate to a needy military family. Anyone can give the "gift of groceries" to needly military families around the World.
Donate a Calling Card, to help a deployed or hospitalized troop to phone home. Working through the military exchange services, the Department of Defense has developed a program which allows any American to purchase a phone card through the exchange, and have the card donated to a deployed or hospitalized troop.
Send a electronic greeting card or email through Operation Dear Abby, in cooperation with the United States Navy (note: Greetings are for members of all the services, not just sailors).
Give Blood through the American Red Cross.
Volunteer to be a "Foster Parent" for the pet of a deployed service member, a service member assigned overseas where pets are not allowed, or even a service member attending basic training.
