And we can do it! But maybe we shouldn't.

We learned a lot of lessons in the last , and we strive to do things better. Please read on.

This is really a tough call. Every year so many folks wait until the holidays to send their packages that units are buried, not to mention the APO/FPO. Please keep in mind that most units have no place for massive amounts of packages, nor the means to move them.

So, what are you supposed to do? Simple, really.

You should never send more then 5 packages to the same address at the same time. Actually, 1-2 a day is best. Chances are you are not the only person sending something and the soldiers will have to deal with the packages on their 'down time', which I can tell you isn't much at all.
We can't stress this enough:
NO large shipments at the same time to the same address. Ever.

Send early. OK, you knew that. Holiday shipping dates from the USPS are posted on this web site as soon as we get them.

Keep the packages SMALL!!!
Remember, this is about support, not just stuff. Think about this: Mail call, the Soldier hears his/her name called out, with joy he/she gazes toward the box that the mail clerk points to. Friggin box is bigger than the tent he/she lives in. Weighs more then a Battalion Commander! Not cool...

Are we saying don't do anything? No, we are asking for you to realize that you can be part of the solution. The many wonderful folks who have participated in supporting our service members have been simply outstanding in their generosity. There is no doubt you will continue.

Many, many people will not know about this and with good intentions actually help cause a huge log jam. I am asking for all the folks involved with the Any Soldier Inc. web site and effort to not do big drives this holiday, or at least really think how what you will do effects the folks you are trying to support.

Help them all year, not just the holidays. Consider a tax deductible monetary donation to Any Soldier Inc. who connects supporters directly to the troops in need.

Here is a perfect example from a supporter:
"Wouldn't it be fun to send "Happy Thanksgiving in September" and "Merry Christmas in October" packages with a note saying that you'll resume sending packages after the holidays? It could be Thanksgiving in October and Christmas in November if the packages aren't sent to close to the holidays. The packages could contain cards and decorations for the troops as well as cards for them to send to their loved ones. They would still know that they are remembered and cared about and the mail service would be less overwhelmed at the holidays.
Just a thought.
Yours,
Lee"