Christmas 2010...now is the time for the Army and Air Force

[S.E.R.E.]

Now is the time to help out those who will not be home for Christmas...

Release No. 11-06-10
Nov. 22, 2010


Gift cards ensure no Airman / Soldier is left behind this holiday season

DALLAS (AFRNS) -- A favorite time of year for thousands of military members serving overseas is just around the corner. While the holiday season and the gifts that accompany them always bring a sense of joy, time is running out for those considering sending mail to troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

According to the Military Postal Service Agency, “space-available” mail should be postmarked no later than Nov. 26; parcel airlift mail, Dec. 3; priority and first-class mail, letters and cards, Dec. 10; and express mail military service, Dec. 18.

Regardless of the date sent, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service offers fast, easy and convenient gift cards (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/5182576790/) that anyone can include in a package or even have sent directly to loved ones serving overseas.

Exchange gift cards can be used at stores, ranging from 900 to 24,000 square feet, that have all the candy bars, protein shakes and magazines a service member could desire. The exchange has also partnered with food vendors such as Subway, Burger King and Pizza Hut to ensure troops get a taste of home.

“From milkshakes to sneakers, just about anything you would think of putting in a care package is already on the ground and in these stores,” said the Col. Virgil Williams, the exchange’s chief of staff.

The exchange’s infrastructure makes the gift cards both convenient for those looking to send support and the deployed troops who receive it. In fact, the exchange has developed partnerships with organizations including the American Red Cross and United Service Organizations to ensure donated gift cards reach service members who need them.

“For many deployed service members, a package is the closest they will get to their family this holiday season,” said Colonel Williams. “Exchange gift cards are a great way to ensure Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are able to get what they want at any of 81 stores and more than 200 food vendors in contingency locations including Afghanistan and Iraq.”

Friends, family, and even civic groups can send exchange gift cards ranging from $10 to $500 by calling 800-527-2345. or logging on to https://shop.aafes.com/gcs/default.aspx. (Courtesy of AAFES)

[dennisleber]

thanks for posting will share with others!!