I read a “Spirituality” column in our local newspaper each Saturday by Chaplain Maj. Norris Burkes. He is a Freelance Writer, Public Speaker, Author, and Air National Guard Chaplain. He is currently stationed at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, through April (he volunteered to return for active service when the call came for Chaplains needed in Iraq). You’ll find his weekly column in many newspapers across the country so you might have already read his request for items for our troops.

Anyway, this week he also sent a list of items that the troops in Balad could use. I thought I’d share the list with you all too.

If you’d like to help out, box up a care package and mail it to the base chapel where he’s working. The address is:
Troy’s Place
332 AEW/HC
APO AE 09315-9997

Here are some of the items our troops need:
FOOD ITEMS:
Crackers, cookies (Oreos, Chips Ahoy, etc.), candy, raisins, peanuts, trail mix, applesauce/fruit cups, instant oatmeal, chips, beef jerky, Granola bars, Little Debbie snacks, instant soups, popcorn, small microwavable items.
HYGIENE ITEMS:
Shampoo, conditioner and face and body wash, lotion, body/foot powder, deodorant, tissues (pocket size), wipes (handy wipes, antibacterial), shaving cream, eye drops, mouthwash, toothpaste, toothbrushes and dental floss, hand sanitizer, batteries of all size, and zipper bags (small size)
OTHER: Phone calling cards (international), greeting cards, blank note cards, thank you cards.

So, when you’re out shopping this weekend, next week, whenever, pick up a few items, box them up and mail them out to help our troops. It’s a small thing to due, but a huge impact. Thank you!