Practical Ways to Encourage Deployed Soldiers
Airport Photos - Freeport Flag Ladies
Has pictures posted of the troops as they arrive or depart from Bangor International Airport or Pease International Airport. Go to the links under "Meeting the Troops."
Airport Photos - Our Stop In Maine's Photos
To all our troops and their families. As a measure of our appreciation of your sacrifices we are honored to provide pictures from Bangor International Airport (BIA). Unfortunately, we are not able to meet every flight. We are a “Nana and Gramp” operation limited in what we are able to do. Pictures are posted as soon as possible of being taken. Please note that occasionally a troop will not want their picture taken and we respect those requests.
Bandanas - Operation Bandanas
Chaplains are asking for them, and our servicemen and women are looking for them. Please pray about your involvement in this ministry to our servicemen and women. Not only are the bandanas an inspired tool for spreading God's Word, but they are useful also to cover the face from the sand and dust; as a sweat rag; and as an emergency wrap for a splint, sling, or tourniquet.
Bandanas - Psalm 91 Bandana
Supports soldiers and their loved ones by providing products that bring comfort, encouragement, and protection. Psalm 91 bandanas, dog tags, military travel pillow, Psalm 91 gift set.
Bibles
Help send Bibles to our Troops. Campus Crusade for Christ
Bibles - Good and Evil (Comic book format of the Bible)
Our popular illustrated "Picture Bible," Good & Evil, has been beautifully colorized by professional artists! This amazing book takes you through the Bible chronologically, retelling key events in an easy-to-grasp illustrated comic book format. Each story page has verse references at the bottom so you can look up where in the Bible those events are recorded or doctrinal topics addressed on the page. Standard comic book dimensions, with 336 pages of fantastic color art. Available in Spanish and other languages.
The first six parts of Good and Evil are also available in comic books.
Bibles - Military BibleStick (New Testament listening device)
The Military BibleStick comes pre-loaded with the entire New Testament. It is rugged enough to withstand tough weather conditions, can be used in low-light situations, and it easily fits into uniform pockets. The Military BibleStick is bringing comfort and hope to Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Support our Troops with God's Word in Audio today!
Bibles - Send a Bible with a personal note of encouragement
Mission is to spread the word of Christ through the distribution of God's Holy Word to soldiers and their families, with a special personally written message of encouragement to each one.
Books and Magazines - Books for Soldiers (and dvds, games)
Once your application is approved, you will be able to send troops books, DVDs, games and relief supplies. You will also have access to our Pen Pal area and Post Card Jamboree. On average our volunteers fill over 1000 requests a month. Get started today and get your company, civic group or place of worship involved with supporting our troops.
Books and Magazines - Books for Troops program
The mission of this program is to provide local soldiers with engaging and high-quality books to read while stationed overseas. We hand-pick the books right here at Got Books, ensuring that every one will be appropriate and enjoyable to its recipient. The books will
typically be small paperbacks which are lighter and easier to carry. Packages of about 50-100 books will be sent to each participating soldier, which means there will be plenty of books to share with friends in their unit. Got Books will enclose emails and hand written letters in each package wishing recipients luck during their service and thanking the troops for all that they do for us.
Books and Magazines - Donate books, dvds, games (Books for Soldiers)
Send troops books, DVDs, games and relief supplies.
Books and Magazines - Flack Jacket Books
Fun reading materials for our Heroic Troops in uniform. Author and JEOPARDY! Champion Jack Honig pens fascinating and intriguing books that emanate from the depths of the alleys and valleys, mountains and fountains, ridges and bridges, recesses and abscesses of his unparalleled fertile and furtive imagination. All of these self-published writings are distributed at no charge to our undaunted fighting forces, both stateside and across the globe. They are also for sale to the general public at the cost of $10 apiece. All proceeds are employed exclusively for the purpose of increasing their availability to as many Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and members of the National Guard and Coast Guard as is humanly possible.
Books and Magazines - Free one year subscription to VFW
Obtain a free one year subscription to the Veterans of Foreign Wars magazine. Contact them at 816-756-3390, extension 241 to request a sign-up postcard to send in. You can obtain as many sign-up cards as you need.
Books and Magazines - No Greater Joy
No Greater Joy is sending encouragement packages to any soldier serving abroad whose address we receive (based on availability of donations to fund this project). For married men that have wives and children at home, we send encouragement packages to the home front as well! Some of the book titles sent to the deployed Soldier and/or his spouse might include: Am I Saved, Good and Evil (comic format Bible), Created to Be His Helpmeet, To Train Up a Child.
Books and Magazines - Operation Paperback
Operation Paperback began in 1999, and has since shipped books to numerous overseas locations. Operation Paperback also provides books to military and veterans hospitals located within the United States, as well as USO centers at US Airport transit points.
The organization has several special projects, including:
- Providing books from military Professional Reading Lists to support servicemember professional development goals;
- Giving the book, Courage After Fire: Coping Strategies for Troops Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families to military chaplains as they counsel troops before redeployment;
- Providing Iraqi Phrasebooks for units on the ground so that they may communicate effectively with local populations;
- Supplying books for the annual book give away at NSA Souda Bay in Crete, Greece for service members and their families;
- Supplying children's books to deployed soldiers who read to their children via webcam or on DVDs.
Books and Magazines - Soldiers' Angels
If you are an author who would like to donate autographed books, please email us. If you would like to donate books or magazines for the troops, they should be in good condition and relatively recent publications. Magazines must be current/timely and in excellent condition.
Books and Magazines - Subscriptions for Soldiers
The Subscriptions for Soldiers program allows you to show your support for our troops by donating a magazine subscription to our deserving overseas active duty servicemen and women. We have gathered thousands of requests for magazine subscriptions from our soldiers and now we need your help!
Bug, Insect Relief - Operation Don't Bug Me (AdoptaPlatoon)
Most Wanted Items: Bug Spray/Wipes (non aerosol), Eye drops, Cortisone Cream (anti itch cream), Lip Balm, Medicated powder (for heat rash), Misting Fans, Sticky Fly Paper, Fly Swatters, Sunglasses, Suntan Lotion. Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Bumper Sticker - I Served
Our vision is to give every returning military person that served in Iraq or Afghanistan a free sticker that identifies their place of service. It is our hope that these stickers will encourage others to express a simple "thank you" for serving our country.
It's a simple inexpensive way to give back to those who have given so much.
Cakes - Wire a Cake
Yes you can deliver a cake to a soldier for any occasion! We can send birthday cakes to troops at home & abroad! Send loved ones a sweet treat baked fresh and packaged for optimal transport. The cakes are 9" single layer to serve 8 and they are baked fresh, frosted and shipped immediately but the time frame once in military hands could be approximately 10 days.
Canines and Felines - No buddy gets left behind (Operation Baghdad Pups)
SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) International is working to rescue the mascots and companion animals of United States soldiers serving in the Middle East. Your contributions will help SPCA International to bring the four-legged friends of our brave men and women in uniform to a safe, happy, forever home in the United States.
Canines and Felines - Care packages for war dogs and their handlers (Operation Military Care K-9 - US War Dogs)
Our Military Canines Teams who have been deployed to the Middle East desparately need our help with supplying them with items listed on their website.
Canines and Felines - Sends pet supplies to our Soldiers (Operation Pooch)
Operation Pooch is a collection and distribution program to help our troops and their canine and feline companions to protect our country. In order to support the troops in a very unique and much-needed way, we have established Operation Pooch. At many of the camps located in Iraq and Afghanistan many troops have taken dogs and cats driven away from the surrounding villages and cities, under their wings. The animals serve many purposes; they offer companionship as well as killing vermin and keep venomous snakes away. They also alert troops if an intruder is close. We are asking your help to donate any items that could be helpful to a soldier, and their 4 legged companions.
Canines and Felines - Soldiers' Angels K-9 Support Team
We are the lifeline of Soldiers' Angels to the U.S. military dog teams, making sure both dogs and handlers have what they need when they need it, whether it be for work or a well-earned break.
The most important thing the K-9 Team does is adopt military dog teams, just like Angels adopt service members through the regular adoption process. That means sending a letter a week and at least one care package a month. The difference is, the care packages are for both the dog and the handler. For example, a package can include a chew toy and treats, or even hygiene items like shampoo or clippers, plus the regular snacks and goodies for a service member.
The K-9 Team also works as a group to raise funds for major canine equipment purchases such as cooling mats/vests, doggles (goggles for dogs), and booties, and develops relationships with local pet shops to get discounts or conduct item fundraisers.
Cards for Soldiers to send home - Operation Write Home
Operation Write Home is a group of crafters from across America (and beyond!) who make handmade cards for deployed heroes so they can keep in touch with their loved ones at home! We serve all branches of the military in all deployed locations, including those stationed aboard ships.
Our crafters range in age, location, and level of skill - but all have a desire to help those who serve us. Cards are made by individuals, groups, schools, scouts, and sent to our volunteer shippers in quantities both small and large!
Cards for Soldiers to send home - Totally For Troops
Totally for Troops is a non-profit organization dedicated to making and providing greeting cards to deployed service men and women who, in turn, are able to personalize the cards and mail them home to family and loved ones. This program is completely free to deployed units.
Christmas - Blankets of Belief, representative of our support (Soldiers' Angels)
We want our deployed heroes to know that they are remembered during the winter Holiday season, that we are thinking of them, and that we are grateful for their service. Since we can't wrap our arms around them in person to show how much we love and appreciate them, our goal is to once again wrap all of our deployed service members in blankets representative of our support and faith in them, Blankets of Belief. The Blankets will be a physical reminder that they are not alone. When deployed service members receive a Blanket of Belief, they will know that somebody back home remembered them, that somebody labored over a handmade blanket with thoughts of them and hopes or prayers for their strength and comfort.
Christmas - Camosock stocking
The CAMOSOCK®, Military Christmas Stocking, was designed to become a true keepsake for the Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen or National Guardsmen that receives one. Expertly crafted from the digital uniform fabric worn by each branch of the Armed Forces.
Christmas - Holiday mail schedule to send mail/packages to APO/FPO address
Site lists various deadlines to send mail/packages to arrive to an APO/FBO address in time for Christmas.
Christmas - Operation Christmas Stockings
Sewing Angels providing a piece of Ho-Ho-Home for our deployed Troops. Last year we provided over 8,000 Troops with Christmas stockings and the "stuffers" to fill them. If you would like to volunteer (sewing or donating), there are deadlines associated with this project. Sewing instructions are on the site.
Christmas - Operation Holiday Eagle (AdoptaPlatoon)
Please join us in sending holiday cheer to a group of Soldiers deployed during the holidays. Tie a red, white & blue ribbon around a box of candy canes and include a holiday greeting card with your name and/or state for each cane in the box! Each Soldier will receive one! Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Christmas - Operation Support Our Troops
If you have a loved one deployed in harm's way this Christmas season, please contact them to have their entire unit adopted!
Christmas - Stockings from Santa (AdoptaPlatoon)
Let’s bring a little home to them by either sewing or buying Christmas stockings and mailing them to a small group or a platoon of Troops! You can fill them with surprises of holiday candy, socks, hot chocolate or hot cider packs, hand-held games, word puzzles with a holiday pen, travel-size toiletries. Use your imagination to make this a special gift. Don’t forget to add a holiday card for each stocking with your name so they know they are not forgotten! Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Christmas - Trees for Troops
The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation is organizing locally-hosted events (called TweetUp4Troops) during Veterans Day week (Saturday, Nov. 7 through Saturday, Nov. 14). The local TweetUp4Troops events are designed to generate funds to support the Foundation's Trees for Troops program. To date, Trees for Troops has touched 50,082 military families by providing them a fresh, farm-grown Christmas tree for the holidays. With your help, TweetUp4Troops can spread the joy to many more families!
Christmas - Trees shipped overseas (Operation AC)
It's that time of year again - We are sending Christmas trees to our Troops! Look in the virtual carebox or make a general donation for $35.00. Will send 1 Christmas tree to a US Service Member in Afghanistan. Our Troops in Afghanistan have nothing! Trust me, I'm getting e-mails they hardly have internet access home.
Send them a piece of "home" because you have no idea what a Christmas tree does for an entire unit's morale. Let's get them there by Thanksgiving! Donate now with Paypal - or mail us a check for our 2009 Trees for Troops program. These are 5 foot tall Artificial Christmas Trees with 200 lights and come with a stand. We get them from Home Depot (sku is 590-803 in case you want to check) they sell them to us for $24.97 and we put on the rest of the money to cover the shipping of the 7.5 x 8.5. x 38 inch box with handle. WHAT BETTER THING CAN YOU DO WITH $35 THAN SEND A BIT OF HOME TO A US SERVICE MEMBER - ESPECIALLY NOW IN AFGHANISTAN WHERE OUR TROOPS ARE BEING FORGOTTEN!
Church - Bulletins and sermon cd's Jan K.
Jan K.Our church sends church bulletins and cd's of the Sunday service to their Soldiers, regardless if they are deployed or not.
Coffee - Cup O' Joe for a Joe
Would you buy a Soldier serving overseas a cup of coffee if you could? Well now you can! Buy a Cup of Joe for a Soldier Serving Far From Home And Have It Delivered With Your Own Personal Note of Encouragement...
In our travels to see the Troops, many share with us their sense of loneliness, isolation and feelings of being forgotten. Their commanders tell us that some Soldiers never receive mail from home. In response, Green Beans Coffee has launched Cup of Joe For A Joe to let anyone, anywhere in the world, say thanks to our troops through the simple act of buying a cup of coffee and having it delivered along with their own personal note of encouragement into the hands of a deployed Soldier.
Coffee - Dunkin' Donuts
We are honored to send a taste of home to our troops overseas. We will hold a monthly lottery to randomly select 50 United States military members among those requests submitted. Each will receive a case of Dunkin' Donuts coffee. We will limit the offer to those who have not previously received any coffee.
Coffee - Holy Joe's Cafe
Holy Joe's Cafe is a Coffee House Ministry – United Church of Christ military chaplains have found an old way to invite U.S. soldiers into a safe and informal place where they can receive spiritual care and good coffee. Congregations and individuals can support the Coffee House Ministry and simultaneously participate in the UCC Coffee Project by sending Equal Exchange Coffee to the military chaplains in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. Thanks to you, now 125 chaplains are able to participate.
Coffee - Operation Million Cup
In October 2003 Boca Java started donating coffee to the troops. Because of the overwhelming popularity of our effort, in July 2005, we officially established Operation Million Cup as a way for our customers to send coffee to the troops. Boca Java matches matches your donation every time!
Coffee - Thank a Soldier (aka Coffee 4 Our Troops)
Send Tim Horton's gift certificates to troop members in Kandahar. Thank A Soldier has become very international is looking to send coffee packets and possibly small personal sized coffee makers to our front line guys and others serving with military from around the world.
Coin - Grateful American Coin
Provide your friends and associates a tangible way to show their gratitude to those who serve our country. 100% of the net proceeds benefit wounded veterans. Coins are $7 each, or $6 each if buying 10 or more. Coins are available in gold or silver tone with blue or gold tone with red.
Comedians and Comedy Clubs - For the Troops III
For the Troops III is the 3rd installment of a free superstar compilation CD exclusively for the US Troops and their families stationed in the US and overseas, as well as veterans of the Armed Services. The cd was released on November 28, 2009. Focusing on comedy this year, the 10 track compilation features contributions from Chris Rock, Dennis Miller, Adam Sandler, and more. The CD is available as a free download through www.AAFES.com. Only users with a valid military ID have access to the site.
Comedians and Comedy Clubs - Operation Laugh
Operation Laugh is a joint effort between eMail Our Military (eMOM), comedian Dan Smith and the great folks at Funny Fundraise to help get comedy to our troops. If anyone needs a hearty laugh and healthy heaping of humor it's our military.
If you love sending surprises to the military service members in your life this is the perfect gift. Even if you just want to grab a copy for yourself or someone you love, you'll still be helping to support our troops. For every copy you purchase, a portion of the proceeds will go to eMail Our Military to help us continue to support our troops.
Comedians and Comedy Clubs - Stand Up 4 Troops
Comedians and comedy clubs supporting our military.
Comedians and Comedy Clubs - The Three Jarheads
The Three Jarheads are three former Marine comedians, sharing their experiences of going into, going through and transitioning out of the Marine Corps, back into "society." No political, pro-war/anti-war, opinionated B.S. Just three Marines on a mission to empower and support any and all military personnel, their families, friends with comedy that comes straight from the heart.
Cookies submitted by Joanne K.
submitted by Joanne K.The best way I have found to ship cookies requires:
Waxed paper2 - Ziploc large rectangular disposable containers4-8 slices of bread1 - US Postal Service shirt size Flat Rate boxPack the cookies in the Ziploc containers using wax paper between the layers. After the last layer of cookies or brownies, top with waxed paper and slices of fresh bread until the container seals tightly and the contents do not rattle. (Note: Do not use homemade bread. The preservatives in the bread are needed to keep the bread from molding during shipping.)
Place one container upside down and one container right side up in the Flat Rate box. They will fit snugly and not rattle. The bread will dry out during shipping, but the bake goods will remain moist and intact.
Cookies - Operation Baking Gals
Cat has mailed hundreds (yes, really) of packages to her husband and his Squadron while on deployments. She shares tips on how to package cookies and use apple peels to keep them fresh. She also shares instructions for filling out USPS customs forms to mail the cookies.
Cookies - Treat the Troops
The purpose of "Treat The Troops" is to let deployed American military persons, on the front, living in tents or temporary quarters, know that people at home are remembering them. Home-baked cookies and other "comfort Items," along with a note of thanks, are sent. Site includes tips for baking and shipping your own cookies for the Troops.
Cooling Vest - Battlefield Ministries
A campaign to give cooling devices to U.S. troops in Iraq -- The vest is the brainchild of an Ohio-based cooling-technology company and an Army psychiatrist who observed the dangerous disorientation suffered by soldiers in Iraq's withering heat. Together, they created a vest and other articles of clothing, including detachable sleeves and a beanie, that help keep troops cool under the 50 pounds or more of armor and equipment they carry.
Crocheted Angels - Angels for Hope
Angels for Hope is a nonprofit organization that offers free crocheted angels for anyone in need of hope. We attach a small card with the angel to say to an injured or ill person, you are not alone, others do care, and you are in our thoughts and prayers. At your request we can let it be known that you requested the item. In addition to crocheted angels, we also offer butterflies and smiley faces.
DVDs and CDs - AdoptaPlatoon (Thanksgiving Campaign)
Send thanks to our Troops at Thanksgiving! So you can’t send a turkey – but you can send a DVD movie, popcorn, a bag of candy corn, and a letter filled with things you’re thankful for! Send a photo of you and your family too! Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
DVDs and CDs - DVDs for Vets
Our mission is to provide veterans who for any reasons cannot obtain DVDs on their own. Donors help by giving new and used movies to Veterans, especially to those with limited access, in order to view the latest Hollywood releases. Portable DVD players are greatly appreciated. If you would like to donate to our Vets, please go to our Donate DVDs area. If you are a Vet, regardless of when you served and you would like to receive a donated DVD, please go to our Locate DVDs area.
DVDs and CDs - Operation Bless Our Troops
If you have friends or family members stationed overseas in places such as Iraq or Afghanistan, send us their names and addresses right away, and we will ship them a packet containing Now and Always: Songs of Hope and Praise on CD and our feature movie Last Flight Out on DVD. This is a project of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association designed to bless U.S. troops serving overseas in places such as Iraq and Afghanistan. You are invited to request packets of materials be sent to your friends and family members. Also includes "Steps to Peace with God" and a word of encouragement from Franklin Graham.
This packet will not only bless your loved ones, it will minister to those around them as they listen to the music or watch the film.
DVDs and CDs - Operation DVD
Safe entertainment is a concept that is difficult at best for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan. Even baseball and softball games are no longer possible because of snipers, mines, bombs and other terrorist activities. Operation DVD is an appeal to Patriotic Americans to donate their new and used DVDs which will then be shipped to our fighting men and women overseas.
DVDs and CDs - Operation Showtime
Here is you chance to support the troops. Look though your DVD collection and get rid of those old or new DVDs. Have your church group, veterans group, scout troop collect them. If you have a business that sells or leases DVD’s, then the time has come to clean the shelves of those old ones.
DVDs and CDs - Operation Take a Soldier to the Movies
Operation: Take a Soldier to the Movies was started to improve the morale among the troops stationed in war zones around the world. Soldiers in war zones literally had “nothing to do” when not working. This is a way of providing them with a “Saturday Night at the Movie” experience. Each movie package to the troops contains:
- Letter of support from the donor with their mailing address
- New or used DVD
- Artificially sweetened powdered drink mix packets (no tubs)
- Movie theatre style candy (no chocolate)
- Microwavable Popcorn
DVDs and CDs - Operation Thank You
Ongoing support and encouragement from a grateful nation helps America’s bravest men and women ‘stay the course’ during these trying times. This Operation Thank You DVD does just that and more! All members of the U.S. Armed Forces make tremendous sacrifices as they serve our nation. Many are often deployed for more than a year at a time. We can never say “thank you” enough to the patriots and heroes who have stepped forward to defend freedom and democracy around the world.
Set to inspiring patriotic and instrumental music, Operation Thank You uplifts the spirits of military personnel with encouraging messages that inspire faith, promote patriotism, and convey support from the home front. Operation Thank You was designed and produced by veterans to honor and encourage their fellow service members. This DVD makes a great gift for any former or present member of the U.S. Armed Forces!
DVDs and CDs - Tunes 4 the Troops
My goal is to gather CD's, DVD's, and books on CD and get them to the men and women serving our country all around the world. Please join me in this effort by donating CD's, funds or your time. I guarantee your heart will be touched as mine has in this effort to let our soldiers know that we love them and are thinking of them in this small way.
Eyewear, Anti-ballistic - Armor 4 Troops Foundation
The primary mission of the Armor 4 Troops Foundation is to provide new and replacement "state-of-the-art" anti-ballistic eyewear, Under-Armour, personal gear, and other critical equipment and services directly to United States troops in the field that are currently engaged in war zones or other peacekeeping and humanitarian missions throughout the world where combat violence is a threat.
Financial Support - American Soldier Foundation
The American Soldier Foundation was created to assist soldiers on extended active duty and their dependents, and the dependents of those lost in the line of duty. Military life often places a difficult burden on families, both financially and emotionally. We believe that the lives of the men and women keeping our country safe should not be any harder than they have to be. It is in that spirit that we offer our support. They fight for us - let's fight for them.
The Foundation can provide grants or interest-free loans for: food, rent or utilities, funeral expenses, family/marriage counseling
medical expenses, financial planning, personal needs when pay is delayed or stolen, education planning and scholarships, fines or legal expenses, business planning, liquidate or consolidate debt, home purchase or improvements, purchase, rent or lease vehicle, debt or credit card bills, etc.
Financial Support - Operation Once in a Lifetime
Operation Once in a Lifetime’s mission is to make the dreams of soldiers and their families come true by providing free financial and moral support.
Operation Once in a Lifetime was created by a soldier to help other soldiers; a soldier knows what a soldier needs and a soldier knows what a soldier does not need. A soldier does not need to worry about providing beds for his kids, worrying if his electricity will still be on when he goes home or if his house will be foreclosed on when serving his/her country. A soldier needs a program that will provide free financial assistance regardless of his rank, race, branch of service, physical condition or his deployment status. A soldier needs a program that can help make a life altering contribution when he is in his/her greatest need; Operation Once in a Lifetime is that program.
Games - Game Day (AdoptaPlatoon)
Sending games and snacks to give the troops something to do in their down time! All kinds of games are needed: board games,
cards, dominos, Scrabble, hand-held games, puzzles and anything you think they would enjoy doing! And don’t forget the snacks -- candy, chips, salsa, popcorn, beef jerky, just to name a few! Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Gift Card Donations - AAFES
https://shop.aafes.com or call (877) 770-4438
Purchase an AAFES Gift Card(s)/ Exchange Catalog Gift Certificate(s) to include in your care package or letter to a military family member, friend or loved one to be used at a local post exchange around the world. Please remember to send to only recipients that have Exchange privileges.
Gift Certificate Donations - Gifts from the Homefront (USO)
Gifts from the Homefront is a program developed to enable the American public to donate gift certificates to be used by service members at base exchanges and at the commissary. Your gift will go to USO Centers stateside and overseas for distribution to military personnel.
Gift Certificate Donations - Military Moms of Texas
Military Moms of Texas has a program, Deployed Night Out, that accepts gift certificate donations to restaurants, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues, for Soldiers to use during R&R.
Golf Clubs - Operation Shoebox
Golf Clubs for Troops - We currently have used golf clubs for any troop that is interested in them.
Halloween Candy - Halloween Treats for the Troops (AdoptaPlatoon)
Halloween Treats for the Troops - Send one SPOOKY card and one Halloween treat bag filled with Halloween candy or other hard candy to small groups of Army Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Hats, Knitted or crocheted - Warmth for Warriors
Warmth for Warriors was formed to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by our soldiers and their families. To honor and support them, we are providing active duty and retired veterans with handmade, warm, wool hats and other comfort items.
As an all volunteer organization, we are always looking for more help. We are knitting and crocheting homemade hats to comfort our soldiers as they serve for us in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although some hats go to active duty soldiers, most hats are sent to medical units where the sick and wounded are prepared to leave for hospitals in Germany or back home in the United States. A warm, wool hat, made with love, provides both physical comfort and a "hug of thanks".
If you knit or crochet, you can download a file with instructions for easy hats.
Helmet Cooler, Warmer - Send homemade round head coolers (or warmers), aka a "KISS"
Kisses are a head cooler. Recently, the military changed the design of their helmets to make them safer. YEAH!!! Unfortunately, since the helmets fit tighter, they don’t get much air circulation under them so we have changed the labels to tell them that kisses can also be used as reusable heating pads. These will also work under a ball cap if you cut them slightly smaller and use even less crystals and if the ball cap has mesh for air circulation. They are great for farmers, lawn mowers or anyone who works out in the heat all day. Just experiment until you get it right.
If you only have time and materials to make one thing, it should be HUGS.
Helmet Liner, crocheted, knitted or sewn - Operation Helping Hand/American Angels
Operation Winter Warmth - In order to help keep our troops warm and to bring a little bit of home to them. We make and send, October thru March, helmet liners, gaiters, and slippers.
Helmet Liner, knitted - Packages from Home
How would you like to use your knitting skills to help support our troops? Here is a simple pattern you can use to create a warm comfortable helmet liner for our troops overseas. The seasons are soon changing and in Afghanistan that means quite cold weather.
Helmet Upgrades - Operation Helmet
Operation Helmet has no connection to or association with any manufacturer of helmet suspension systems. Our only goal is added protection for our troops. If a better upgrade comes along, supported by sound scientific data from both civilian and military studies, we'd add it or switch to it in a heartbeat. We do not have an official relationship with any branch of the uniformed services, although we provide helmet upgrades to all who ask, when money allows.
Humanitarian Aid - Blankets and warm clothing drive Benita K.
Benita K.When my husband (a chaplain) arrived for his tour in Afghanistan he had heard of the villages in the mountains that were so poor and had minimal warm clothes, let alone shoes to protect them from the cold and the snow. Our church was having a community event for kids, and they also used it as a warm clothing and blanket drive for the people for Afghanistan. We were able to send 2600 lbs. (46 large boxes) to two villages and an orphanage. It was such a unique opportunity to reach out to the poor people there, and also was a encouraging experience for the Soldiers who delivered the clothes. For other opportunities to reach out to the people of Afghanistan or Iraq, click here.
Hunting and Fishing - Freedom Hunters
Saluting the noble work of our courageous men and women of the Armed Forces is our mission. Freedom Hunters would like to reflect the outdoor community's appreciation to the troops by taking select active duty and combat veterans on outdoor adventures. With help from conservation groups, outfitters, corporations and land owners, Freedom Hunters will honor individuals from all branches of the Military. It is with immense pride and enthusiasm that Freedom Hunters will carry on the American tradition of hunting and fishing with active military personnel across the United States.
Long deployments away from the fields and streams can be hard on those that love our tradition of hunting and fishing. Some servicemen can miss several seasons between training before the deployment and the actual deployment. In an effort to boost moral, we select a few individuals who are currently deployed to go on dream adventures when they return home.
Journal - My Military Memories
My Military Memories is a journal that is designed is for the reservists, retired personnel, or active duty. For those of you who have retired from the military, it will make a wonderful gift for your family to reminisce about you and to know what you did while serving your country so proudly. The questions are placed randomly throughout the book in no particular order. I don't want you to get bored and not knowing what will on the next page will be exciting! Its design is not be a quick "yes or no" answer book. I hope you will elaborate on your answers and answer them from your heart. When you come across a question that can't be answered for a few years just skip over it and come to it when time rolls around. This journal would make an excellent gift for anyone who is involved in the military.
Kissing Pillows (I Love You) - USA
These hand-stitched little pillows are designed to be used as a keepsake for the children and loved ones left behind by the Soldiers departing for service of the United States of America. The Soldier should kiss the pillow and give one to each of his or her loved ones to hold onto until he or she returns form war. The pillows also can be given to those who are being deployed and know that they are filled with hugs and kisses from their loved ones and from those of us who care and made them for each Soldier. We hope the pillows will be a comfort during the lonely times for both the Soldier and the families. The Evergreen Chapter of the Embroiderers' Guild of America.Inc. has lovingly stitched numerous of these pillows with gratitude for your service to our country.
Laminated Footprints - God's Promises Footprints
Site has free download of God's promises footprints. Read the story of Scripture-filled laminated footprints that fit inside Soldier's boots so they can stand on the Word of God and His promises during their deployment. More about PWOC
Military Appreciation Month - May 2009
National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM), as designated by Congress, provides a period encompassing both the history and recognition of our armed services with an in-depth look at the diversity of its individuals and achievements. It allows Americans to educate each generation on the historical impact of our military through the participation of the community with those who serve encouraging patriotism and love for America.
National Military Appreciation Month (May 2009) includes Loyalty Day (1st), VE Day(8th), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (8th), Armed Forces Day (16th), and Memorial Day (25th). This very important month honors, remembers, recognizes and appreciates all military personnel; those men and women who have served throughout our history and all who now serve in uniform and their families as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today.
Mother's Day - Operation Hi Mom! sends free fine art canvas to Moms of deployed
Operation Hi Mom awards hundreds of our deployed men and women a free fine art canvas, printed from a favorite photo, which will be presented to their moms on Mother’s Day. Deployed soldiers can simply go to a specially-designed webpage to submit a request, write their mother an endearing message, and upload a photo. It’s a way for soldiers to say to their mom, I love you…and it’s a way for Canvas on Demand to say to our troops, Thanks for a job well-done! See also Operation Hi Honey!
Musical Instruments - Operation Happy Note sends musical instruments to deployed personnel
Operation Happy Note is a volunteer effort to send musical instruments to deployed service men and women throughout the world. With the help of major musical companies, as well as individual donators, we have sent thousands of instruments, including guitars, mandolins, banjos, violins, harmonicas, and accessories. Steve also wrote a lesson program with CD for those who don't know how to play. Thousands of requests are still coming in; clearly these soldiers need the joy that music brings them.
101 Ways to Support Our Troops
by Ginny Dye. Free downloadable book of ideas to encourage our deployed Soldiers.
Personalized Framed Drawings
www.createmygift.com - For Military
Easily create made-to-order Framed Drawings and Fold-Over Notes that show military person in service-specific camouflage with name tag & branch of service personalization included. You can have several people in the drawing - children too!
Then choose add-on illustrations of planes, ships, motor vehicles, sports, hobbies, pets and more from our vast array of choices.
A portion of every sale goes to the CreateMyGift Troops in Touch© program for design and production of sets of pre-printed post cards for deployed parents to mail to their young children.
Pets - Guardian Angels for Soldiers Pet - Supporting our military, veterans and their beloved pets
Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet formed after learning that military service members across the country had pets that needed a caring, loving, and safe home to care for them during the pet owner's deployment to fight the global war on terrorism (combat or peace keeping missions), but had been unable to find someone to care for them. This left the military pet owners with only one option, which was to relinquish their beloved pets and pet ownership rights to a humane society, animal shelter, or animal rescue group never to see their pets again, know if they were placed in a new home, or ended up being euthanized.
Pets - Military Pets Foster Project (NetPets)
A nationwide and global network of individual foster homes that will house, nurture and care for the dogs, cats, birds, horses and all other pets for all the Military personnel only. (Foster: to give temporary nurture, care and shelter.)
Phone and Video - Video Conference Calls
Deploying state of the art technology to keep our troops in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan in touch with their families.
Phone and Video - Video Phones (See Your Troops Foundation)
Provide free videophones and free minutes for our deployed Troops so they can not only speak to family and friends but see them as well!
Phone Cards - Cell Phones for Soldiers
Cell Phones for Soldiers hopes to turn old cell phones into more than 12 million minutes of prepaid calling cards for U.S. troops stationed overseas in 2008. To do so, Cell Phones for Soldiers expects to collect 50,000 cell phones each month through a network of more than 3,000 collection sites across the country.
Phone Cards - Freedom Calls
Our mission is to build a communications network independent of military networks employing state of the art Wi-Fi, VOIP telephony, Video Conferencing and Satcom technology to enable our troops to communicate free of charge from their base camps with their families at home by internet telephone, instant messaging and video conference.
Phone Cards - Operation Phone Home (USO)
USO Operation Phone Home is a campaign designed to provide prepaid international calling cards to as many of our service men and women overseas as possible. This program designates 100% of monetary donations to the purchase and distribution of 100, 300 and 500 minute global calling cards to deployed service members.
Phone Cards - Operation Uplink
Initially, VFW Operation Uplink exclusively distributed phone cards. In 2006, VFW began hosting “Free Call Days.” Now, every month of the year, troops can call home–at no charge—from Internet cafes throughout Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait. Millions of minutes already have been provided! Traditional phone cards are still being provided at military hospitals and VA facilities, as well as to troops in regions not served by the “Free Call Days.”
Photos and Video - Free Photobook from Home
This amazing new program is designed to provide comfort and support for our troops stationed anywhere with an APO/FPO or MPO mailing address. You can make a 20 page soft cover photo book using your own digital pictures and send it to your family and friends far from home. Each free book can contain approximately 50-60 photos. The USO even pays for the shipping! It’s a $17 value, ABSOLUTELY FREE*.
Each book is 5 x 7 and includes 20 pages (additional pages available at extra cost). It's designed to be lightweight and fit neatly into fatigue cargo pockets. It’s a great way to share memories of home with those far away. The number of free books is limited, so create yours NOW. It’s fast, fun and unbelievably easy!
Photos and Video - Homesick GI
Families and friends can join today and create albums of videos, photos, and music so their loved ones in the military can feel personally connected to home. The possibilities are endless and will be defined only by the creativity and imagination of the family and friends who care and miss their soldiers. Albums can be private, for just the immediate family or the couple, and you can also create public albums for sharing with your entire friend's network. You choose who you share with and how you share.
Photos and Video - Maine Troop Greeters (Picture Portal)
Welcome to the oldest and most widely recognized website and picture portal for the troops who have transited through Bangor, Maine. The website www.mainetroopgreeters.com and this picture portal are dedicated to each of these troops and to their family members and friends.
Photos and Video - Operation Love Re-United
The last thing on your mind when your wife or husband arrives home after a 4 to 18 month tour, is capturing all this love– on film. Most people are so overwhelmed with emotions they forget to simply point and shoot the camera they are grasping of their child’s first hug, or that single tear of relief from a mother being able to hold her twenty year old son again. With the help of Operation: Love ReUnited and local photographers near your base, you can.
If you are a member or family member of the United States Military, and are interested in having very special and touching images with a patriotic edge taken of you and/or your family before a deployment or during, and at your reunion, please contact a photographer in your area now.
It’s all made possible by artists wanting to give something back to those who make the United States what it is, and ask for nothing in return- but to come home.
Photos and Video - Portraits of Love
The PhotoImaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMDA) and Soldiers' Angels have joined forces to send 10,000
free family portraits to deployed soldiers around the globe this holiday season. If your loved one is currently serving overseas, and you would like to have a free 5"x7" portrait of your family sent to them, visit our site to find out how you can have your portrait taken and sent this holiday season.
Pillows - Operation Pillowcase (Operation Support for Deployed Military)
Operation Pillowcase began in 2004 with a request from a Soldier in Iraq for a dark pillowcase. Due to its popularity, more and more pillowcases were made and sent. Since 2007 more than 4000 pillowcases were sent to Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Requests for pillowcases are received throughout the year. If you would like to make pillowcases to support this project, you may download the free pattern listed on the website. If the pillowcases are to be sent with Christmas stockings, there are deadlines.
Pillows - Pillows for Patriots
In cooperation with Harris Pillow Supply, we are accepting donations in support of our cause which is to provide a better night's sleep for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. These pillows are packable, cozy and washable.
Pillows - Pillows for Soldiers
Our goal is simple. Supply a large, very comfortable, high quality pillow to as many United States Military and National Guard service men and women as possible; to those who serve our country now, those who have served in the past and those who will serve in the future, including the families of fallen soldiers.
We hope that every time they lay their heads on their pillows, they know how much we all stand behind them, support them, admire them, respect them and revere them . . .and how God has blessed us with their selfless courage and dedication.
Playing Cards - Cards for a Good Cause
Cards For a Good Cause is proud to be a partner with HeroBracelets.org and contribute to our military service support community. Creating your customized cards is as simple as uploading a photo. Each deck costs only $7.49 with $2.00 (which includes the matching donation from HeroBracelets.org) of that purchase price being donated to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and Soldiers' Angels.
Pocket Flags - Project Prayer Flag
Project Prayer Flag is a grass-roots non-profit military support organization, which places American pocket flags and provides support services for the U.S. Military and their families. They have given over 230,000 patriot flag packs (consisting of American pocket flags, inspirational bookmarks, gifts and letters), packages, and related support to service members and their families.
Quality of Life Products - Operation Foot Care Patrol (AdoptaPlatoon)
Our deployed Service Members know that taking care of their feet is just as important as taking care of their weapon!
Our Troops' summer mission in high desert temperatures is extremely tough and in winter, they face cold and wet environments. Our Troops must constantly take care of their feet guarding against sores, blisters, fungus, bacteria and keeping their feet dry. To a U.S. deployed Soldier or Marine, a new pair of crew, boot or thermal socks is a blessing that goes beyond words! Sending a clean pair of new socks, foot powder, anti-fungal cream, cooling cream, nail clippers, and/or athlete’s foot lotion or cream will go a long way to help our Troops serving our Nation know that YOU are helping in their mission as they serve far from home on our behalf. Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Quality of Life Products - Operation Underwear (AdoptaPlatoon)
Sand wears out clothing quickly, so to keep our troops as comfortable as possible, this campaign keeps their undergarments replenished. Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Quality of Life Products - Socks (Socks for Troops)
The TechSpun® Socks For Troops Campaign provides our soldiers with the finest socks available for the most demanding environmental desert/mountain conditions. These socks are designed to be a cross between a custom-fit boot liner and a sock. The socks definitely make a difference to the military personnel who receive them, and will provide foot and hand comfort in all types of weather conditions.
The TechSpun® Sock System is U.S. Military approved for all weather conditions. This sock system has two parts, consisting of a Coolmax® liner sock to prevent blisters and transport heat & moisture away from the foot, and an unique wool boot sock with a high density reversed terry nap U.S. Wool outer facing. The "All Weather" wool boot sock system is compatible for weather conditions of 0ºF to +100º F.
Quality of Life Products - Under-Armour, anti-bacterial socks, etc. (Armor 4 Troops Foundation)
As of September 1, 2009, the Armor 4 Troops Foundation has delivered or shipped directly to our American troops in the field, Thirty Four Thousand and Eleven (34,011) pairs of protective anti-ballistic eyewear, in addition to the Thousands of multi-function tools, Under-Armour, anti-bacterial socks, compressed rubber boot pads and many other sundry products to improve the quality of life to our troops.
Quality of Life Products - Under-Armour, Altama Combat Boots, patches, rank, nametapes, MP3 players, Playstation 2 game consoles. (Operation AC)
OperationAC is proud to offer the Virtual CareBox program to ALL Members of the US Military, including those serving CONUS, Iraq, Afghanistan, Horn of Africa, Europe and worldwide. The Virtual CareBox is open to members of the US Military ONLY. We are a non-profit company who's goal is to provide you items you need and make your deployment and service easier. We do this because YOU sacrifice for OUR freedom and we support you.
We offer Altama Combat Boots, ACUs, Under Armour, Gear including Petzl and Gerber products, all patches, rank and nametapes, IRR/IFF marker, socks, Playstation 2 game consoles, games, MP3 players all for you. You can shop for yourself here but the primary objective is to have people adopt and shop for you.
Recognition - Freedom Team Salute (U.S. Army)
This program recognizes U.S. Army Veterans and the Parents, Spouses and Employers of U.S. Army Soldiers. The program also recognizes those Special Supporters who have significantly contributed to supporting U.S. Army Soldiers and the Army’s Mission. Anyone (military or civilian) can honor a U.S. Army Veteran or an Army Supporter. Active Duty Soldiers can honor their Parents and Spouse. Guard and Reserve Soldiers can honor their Parents, Spouse and Employer.
Every Freedom Team Salute honoree receives an official Commendation package, which includes a certificate of appreciation and a personalized letter signed by the Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff thanking them for their support of today’s Army. The package also includes an official U.S. Army lapel pin and two Army decals. The entire package is provided at no cost to either the nominator or the recipient. Commendation packages arrive in 3 to 4 weeks.
Red Shirt Fridays - Wear a red shirt every Friday in support of our miltary personnel (Red Shirt Fridays)
The mission of redshirtfridays.org is to show support for our servicemen and women. We are not a political organization. We do not care whether or not one supports or does not support the war. We care only about making our support of our servicemen and women known to our fellow Americans and the world. We are a silent majority that does not wish to remain silent anymore. We need to let our servicemen and women know we support their sacrifice and we will not forget them and we will do this by wearing red on every Friday.
Salami - Operation Salami Drop
Operation Salami Drop, sponsored by Hobby's Delicatessen and Restaurant in Newark, is trying to send a salami to all of our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Help bring a little bit of home to these brave troops. Your $10 donation can send a soldier a salami.
Sauces - Operation Sauce Drop
The mission of Operation Sauce Drop is to deliver great-tasting sauces to US military personnel stationed abroad, free of charge. Why are we doing this? Because we would like to thank our brave troops for their sacrifices with a small token of our appreciation, and perhaps a taste of home. We have assembled seven different themed gift boxes of sauces, from mild and zesty to hot and fiery, from which any serviceman or servicewoman stationed at an APO or FPO address may choose, and we will ship their choice of gift box to their APO or FPO address at absolutely no cost to them whatsoever.
Scarves, Cooling - Helps keep our Troops cool with a Cool Scarf (Tie)
The exterior of Cool Scarves are 100% cotton, but the magic is in the special "cooling crystals." These scarves lower body temperature by cooling the neck--they feel like a cool, damp cloth that lasts for days. Through evaporative cooling, they protect the wearer from the effects of extreme heat found in the deserts of the Middle East. Download instructions to make your own to send, donate funds to support the program, or request a cool scarf for your Soldier.
•Filled with non-toxic synthetic crystals, which transform into a soft cooling gel when wet•Stays cool 2-3 days, without refrigeration (must be adjusted periodically to maximize cooling effect•Reduces risk of heat stroke•ReusableScarves, Cooling - Making a CoolTie, also called a Hug or Cooling Necktie (Packages from Home)
Site has directions to make a CoolTie.
Scarves, Cooling - Operation Helping Hand/American Angels
Site has a pattern to make a Cool Neck-Tie.
Scarves, Cooling - Send homemade neck coolers (or warmers), aka a "HUG" (Tie)
We were the first ones to send cool ties (affectionately nicknamed "hugs" since they go around the neck) to the Middle East. We recognized the need to help keep American Troops and our allies cool during the summer and warm during the winter. Our dedicated group also sends care packages and other handmade items to our Service Men and Women. This is our way of saying, "Thank you, we respect you and appreciate everything you do for our Country. Thanks for protecting our freedoms." This website has directions to make your own hugs for Soldiers. Some of the downloads are included here:
Scarves, Knitted - (Camo) Scarves for the Troops
I want to make as many camoflauge scarves as I can, and it's all for the Troops. You can help too by knitting or donating yarn, packages, postage, coupons to Michaels/A.C. Moore... whatever it takes to help me make this happen.
Scarves, Sand - Protects wearers from the elements of the desert
Made of 100% knit cotton, Sand Scarves are used to protect wearers from the elements of the deserts of the Middle East. They keep sand from nostrils and mouth, and when tucked into the shirt, prevent sand from getting inside clothing. They are simple to make, but extremely effective. Download instructions to make your own or donate funds to support the program, or request a sand scarf for your Soldier.
•Protects face, neck and ears from dust, sand, mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, etc.•Assists with breathing in blowing wind, and protect from sand and other debris•Good for all weather climates•Great for sand, desert and wooded environmentsShirts - Personalized T's for your loved ones (T-Shirts 4 Soldiers - Home Sweet Home Campaign)
You Design 'em, We Print-n-Mail 'em - The Home Sweet Home Campaign is proud to offer a fun and unique way for you to connect with your deployed family members and friends!
Send a piece of your heart and home to the Service Member you love and you will be helping our wounded war veterans and their families in their greatest time of need. (For every shirt purchased a portion of the proceeds will be donated to USA Cares)
Shirts - Sends emergency first responders shirts to the troops (Hero to Hero)
HeroToHero (US) is emergency first responders giving the shirts off their backs for our desert-deployed troops. The ultimate show of support, the very shirt off your back. This program sends fire, law enforcement, ems, and all first responder agency shirts (hats & more) bearing hometown department logos to our troops.
Shirts - Tees 4 Troops
In an effort to support our troops overseas, Safari Sun is proud to present Tees 4 Troops. Order new shirts for your unit for only $5 (1 shirt per troop member, 1 design per unit). Program applies only to those stationed out of the continental US. Supplies limited by availablilty.
Soap - Soldier Soaps
SoldierSoaps was a blending of two unique ideas. I was already selling hand painted soaps with floral and holiday designs, and Scripture soaps with printed verses and hand painted designs. While surfing the internet one day, I came across a website that offered soaps with military insignia on them. Since I had been searching for a way to help the troops, I combined the two ideas, using the American Flag as a design base, and SoldierSoaps was born.
Stress Relief - Dang It Dolls
The objective of Operation Military Stress Relief Doll is to show support for our young men and women in the military and to let them know they are appreciated and not forgotten. We do this by making and distributing our ‘Dang-It Doll” to them. Each doll has a poem and note of thanks.
In the last three and a half years, we have shipped over 25,000 dolls to Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, Italy, Holland, Germany and bases in the U.S. These dolls are not sold. They are free to anyone in the military. We do not allow anyone to buy or sell these dolls. This is our tribute to the American Soldier for all they have done for our Country.
Stress Relief - Hooah Button
If you know someone serving in the Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, or Navy, why not inspire them with a HOOAH! Button? Army spouses will find the HOOAH! Button to be the perfect, fun Army gift. The HOOAH! Button is lightweight and is a simple way to include some fun in a care package for soldiers in Iraq, soldiers in Afghanistan, or troops who are deployed in other places around the world.
Stress Relief - The Red Nose Institute
The Red Nose Institute is designed to put a smile on the faces of our troops overseas. Designed by a clown and with the help of clowns and friends around the world, the idea is for folks who care about our military to donate red foam noses. Monetary donations are also accepted and used to purchase even more noses and also to help with mailing costs. The noses are then mailed to U.S. troops deployed anywhere overseas. A letter is enclosed with each package telling that the folks sending them are extremely proud of our military and thankful for what they are doing on our behalf. Servicemen and women are encouraged to share the noses with someone who might need a smile and possibly to share them with the nearby children. There is NO COST to our military or to anyone requesting noses.
Supporting the Troops - Band of Mothers
The Band of Mothers are the mothers of The Noble and Heroic Soldiers of the United States Military. We are dedicated in our mission to Step Up, Stand Up and Stick Up For Our Soldiers. Goals: To Proudly Seek, Garner and Nurture Support for our Soldiers.
Supporting the Troops - Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans. IAVA’s mission is to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families.
Free membership benefits include:
- Linking up with other veterans
- Get information on local events
- Gain access to Community of Veterans, our vets-only online social network
- We maintain the following resource directory for OIF and OEF vets (General Resources, Health, Mental Health, Employment, Housing, Education, Legal Assistance, Financial Assistance, Military Families, Women's Issues, Local Resources, Iraqi Refugees)
Supporting the Troops - March of Honor (A National Day of Recognition)
Together, we expect to deliver millions of 1st class mailed cards to our elected and appointed government officials, calling on them to designate and promote a "National Day of Recognition" for the soldiers and families of Operations Enduring (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom.
Supporting the Troops - Open Up Your Arms
A new generation of veterans is coming home. Let's give them the welcome they deserve. Watch the video and sign the pledge.
Supporting the Troops - Soldiers' Angels
"May No Soldier Go Unloved," encapsulates the motivation behind Soldiers' Angels. We have over 30 different teams supporting all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Through special projects, dedicated teams and individuals supporting our troops, we make a visible difference in the lives of our service members and their families. Our nearly 200,000 volunteers assist veterans, wounded and deployed personnel and their families in a variety of unique and effective ways.
Some teams and projects include:
- Adopt a Soldier - Individualized support throughout deployment
- Angel Bakers - Homemade treats for the deployed
- Cards Plus Team - Extra TLC for soldiers & families
- Hero Flights - Emergency travel assistance
- Hero Packs - Care packages
- K-9 Support - Caring for military working dogs and their handlers
- Ladies of Liberty - Extra TLC for deployed females
- Letter Writing Team - Personal letters for the deployed
- Operation Birthday Cake - Shipping gourmet birthday cakes to deployed troops
- Operation Phone Home - Calling cards
- Scarves - Handmade heat and sand protection
- SOS:Kids - Helping deployed soldiers help local kids
- Tank Support - Helping Veterans Travel to Medical Appointments
Supporting the Troops - The Gratitude Project (submit your Thank You pictures)
Thankasoldier.net is very excited to introduce The Gratitude Project, a collaboration from our group members of THANK YOU messages from home. This is going to be for all members of the coalition deployed in operations around the world. It is also for all branches of our service. I was recently reading a article on CNN about how our troops sometimes felt that they were forgotten about and seeing a video such as this from people from all over the world not just their home may help to make their little brighter.
Supporting the Troops - USO - United Service Organization
Since World War II, the USO has been a steadfast supporter of military personnel around the world. While times have changed, the USO mission has remained the same: to boost the morale of service members and serve as the link between them and the American people. Today the USO delivers its programs and services to 1.4 million active duty service members and 1.2 million National Guard and Reserves as well as their families at more than 130 centers located worldwide.
Services include information referral services, Internet and e-mail access, housing and emergency assistance and support groups, to name a few.
Used Cell Phone, Ink Cartridge Donations - Operation Shoebox
We need your help. Please donate your old cell phones and ink cartridges to help Support Our Troops!
Vacation, R&R - Disabled Veterans Rest Camp (Washington County, Minnesota)
The Disabled Veterans Rest Camp provides facilities and opportunities for recreation, rest, and well being for all women and men who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States, along with their families. The campground is open to all military personnel in good standing: Active duty, Reservists/Guard, Veterans, Disabled, Retirees, Families and Friends.
Vacation, R&R - Honor Them Foundation
The Honor Them Foundation utilizes vacant timeshares and cancelled or unbooked cruises to send combat veterans and their families to five-star resorts or on cruises at no charge to them.
Vacation, R&R - Outward Bound
Adventure and challenge, solitude, reflection, and renewal, the wilderness has always symbolized a new beginning - a place for discovery and fulfilling adventure. The Outward Bound program for Veterans provides an opportunity for camaraderie and has proven to be a powerful tool helping veterans readjust after leaving the combat zone.
Our newest programs offer numerous wilderness adventures exclusively for war veterans, and are fully funded for all participants, to include their roundtrip stateside travel costs between home and the excursion site. Our goals include helping participating veterans build a supportive community with other war veterans; facilitating discussions on readjustment and transition challenges; and re-energizing and reinvigorating our veterans' spirits with adventures and challenges in the beautiful outdoors.
Vacation, R&R - Project Sanctuary
Project Sanctuary is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide therapeutic, curative, supportive and recreational activities to veterans, active military personnel, their spouses and children in a leisure environment. We are dedicated to providing an environment by where individuals and their families who have been affected by their service in the military may spend both leisure and structured time with their families and fellow service personnel in an effort to diminish the wearisome impact of returning home after a considerable period away while serving the interests of the country.
Vacation, R&R - Reconnect after deployment on Hilton Head Island at little or no cost (Operation R&R)
Operation R&R is a non-profit organization designed to provide our service men and women an opportunity to reconnect with their spouses and children upon their return from Iraq or Afghanistan. Property owners, represented by many property management companies, are donating their homes and villas on Hilton Head Island, SC for this purpose. All of this is to ensure that our military families have a chance to spend some time away from their everyday lives to strengthen relationships that have been strained due to long separations and extreme circumstances.
Vacation, R&R - Take a Soldier Fishing
We assist communities at large, by offering them the ability to show their support for the troops by sponsoring our Take A Soldier Fishing program. This allows service members to see just how much they are appreciated. For those that serve to support our fishing program, it gives the individual the ability to see how their support makes a profound difference in a service member or veterans life by providing a safe and positive outdoor experience.
We strive to show that there are people out there that care, and want to help. By providing these events, we have found they give the soldiers something to look forward to. We have also found that soldiers have also changed their outlook on life - the way they feel about wearing their uniform and a new sense of hope.
Vacation, R&R - Veteran Tickets Foundation
Our mission is to give without prejudice FREE tickets to all Veterans, Active Duty Military and their families as a way of saying Thank You! We team up with major sports teams, leagues, promoters, organizations, venues and everyday ticket holders to provide free and discounted tickets to the more than 26 million Veterans and Active Duty Military in the United States.
Valentine's Day - AdoptaPlatoon
Remember our troops on Valentine's Day by sending one or two boxes of children's Valentine cards and lollipops! After writing
“we’re proud of our U.S. Troops” on each card along with your name, city and state, tie a small red ribbon around the lollipop,
and attach it to the card. OR send a box of valentine candy hearts (the ones with messages on them) along with your cards. Be sure to let them you you're from AdoptaPlatoon! Project created by the AdoptaPlatoon™.
Video Message of Support - Our Voices United
Our mission is simple: to send encouragement to the men and women of the Armed Forces. We are creating a campaign where anyone, anywhere, can upload a personal video message of support to those serving in the US Military. We'll piece these videos together onto a dvd to give a united message of support to our troops when they receive their care package.
We want to put a face to the supporters out there. Service members around the world will be able to see these messages of support: they'll be able to see your face, hear your voice, see where you are recording from, and have a personal connection with someone that is offering the encouragement of support. No politics. No military strategy. No opinions. Just personal messages of love and support.
Website - To keep friends and family connected with the deployment (Caring Bridge)
A CaringBridge website helps keep loved ones informed during difficult times. In return, family and friends give support through guestbook messages. Every free, personalized CaringBridge website includes: A journal to update family and friends, Guestbook for messages of love, Photo gallery. (For OPSEC (Operation Security) purposes (for the safety of the Soldier and their family), remember that specific deployment details should not be posted).
Website - You can create a free website to honor a veteran or military loved one (Military Tributes)
Military-Tributes.com is a site dedicated to the love and support of our military members. We believe in God, country, family, and our brave men and women in the military. Military-Tributes.com is not ashamed to stand for what is right and wrong. But we are NOT necessarily a political site. Our main goal is to give families who have loved ones in the military a place to show off, support, love, and share the pride they have for their military member. This site is totally free to use and join. We do not put ads on your own military tribute website here out of respect. You will have complete control of all photos and comments. This is just our small step in supporting our beloved members of the United States Military. We would appreciate any promotion you can give of this website. This site is brand new, started in June 2009. When we have a few members, we will even spotlight them on our main page.
Welcome Home - 20,000 Free "Welcome Home" Banners and Jumbo Cards (Build A Sign)
In honor of Veteran's Day we're giving away free banners and jumbo cards to support our Troops at home and abroad. Just pay shipping costs.
Welcome Home - Ensuring that all Service Members get the proper welcome home (A Hero's Welcome)
The mission of A Hero's Welcome is to organize and encourage Americans to welcome home our brave military personnel from the War in a manner befitting a hometown hero. It is through this effort that A Hero's Welcome hopes to promote increased community respect for our service members as well as increased morale for our returning military.
Welcome Home - Family Member Guest Passes to Gate
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.
Welcome Home - Pease Greeters
...the troops arrive to a boisterous welcome. The Greeters are proud of them and give the troops hearty applause, sincere handshakes, and expressions of "welcome home, thanks for a job well done, or we'll be here to greet you upon your safe return."
Everyone has a camera to record this happy event. Often the troops want pictures of the greeters. They hug and thank them for being there in the wee hours of the morning or late in the evening. Business cards are exchanged. Friends are made.
Soon they move on to enjoy hot coffee, doughnuts, pizza and other refreshments ON AMERICAN SOIL. Initially cell phones were freely offered by the Greeters for the troops to call home with news of their safe arrival.
Wishes Granted - Operation Once in a Lifetime
Operation Once in a Lifetime’s mission is to make the dreams of soldiers and their families come true by providing free financial and moral support.
Wishes Granted - Wish For Our Heroes
The Phoenix Group launched a non-profit foundation in November of 2009 that grants wishes for active duty Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and their families. The Foundation strives to relieve the burdens of family separation, re-integration for deployed soldiers, hardship circumstances, and other means of assistance not covered by existing military charities.
The Foundation is driven by an interactive website allowing anyone to request a wish for active duty members of our Armed Forces. The website allows ‘wish granters’ to view wishes and contribute donations.
Deployment:
Military Life:
Practical Ideas to Encourage:
For Churches:
For Chaplains:
What You Can Do
Home Front Resources
Practical Ideas to Encourage Deployed Military Personnel
There are many opportunities for support highlighted on this website, some of which include: praying regularly for our deployed and their families, sending a military devotional, supporting organizations that equip our chaplains, supporting their families (children) and sponsoring them to attend a marriage conference upon their return.
Here is a topical listing of other ways you can show your support. Scroll down or click on the links to learn more about these opportunities.
Airport photos
Bandanas
Bibles
Books and Magazines
Bracelets (see Bracelets, Handbags, etc.)
Bug, insect relief
Bumper Sticker - I Served
Cakes
Canines and Felines
Cards - for deployed personnel to send home
Cards and Letters - organizations that send to deployed (see Cards and Letters)
Care Packages - ideas, organizations that send (see Care Packages)
Care Packages - retailers that ship to APO/FPO (see Care Packages)
Christmas - holiday mail schedule, stockings, trees, etc.
Church
Coffee
Coin
Comedians and comedy clubs
Cookies
Cooling vest
Crocheted angels
Dog tags, necklaces, crosses (see Bracelets, Handbags, etc.)
DVD's and CD's
Eyewear, anti-ballistic
Financial support
Games
Gift cards, gift certificates
Golf clubs
Halloween candy
Hats, knitted or crocheted
Helmet liner, knitted
Helmet upgrades
Hunting and fishing
Humanitarian aid (see also Afghanistan & Iraq Aid)
Journal
Kissing pillows
Military Appreciation Month
Mother's Day - Free photo gift for deployed to send to their Mom
Musical instruments
101 ways to support our Troops
Personalized framed drawings
Pets - Foster homes during deployment
Phone and video
Phone cards
Photos and video
Pillows
Playing cards
Pocket flags
Prayer resources (see Military Prayer)
Quality of life products (Under Armour, socks, etc.)
Recognition
Red Shirt Friday
Salami
Sauces
Scarves, cooling
Scarves, knitted
Scarves, sand
Shirts
Soap
Stress relief
Supporting the Troops (Other Organizations)
Tickets
Used cell phones, ink cartridge donations
Vacation, R&R
Valentine's Day
Video message of support
Website
Welcome home
Wishes granted
Copyright Benita Koeman 2008 - 2010
