Care Packages for Troops
I'd been wanting to send care packages to troops, but realized a couple weeks ago that it was too late for Christmas.

But then Michelle Obama sent email linking to the E-Z donation page for our USO Care Package program. This is an on-going program that hands out mini-care-packages to troops (mostly when they deploy overseas or come back from R&R).

Calling cards, toiletries, snacks, playing cards, reading material - sometimes toys. Not exactly a Red Ryder BB Gun on Christmas morning. But I remember how much I appreciated a care package my girlfriend's family sent me in college. I was dirt-poor and struggling, and getting a box full of Pringles, peanuts, soap, and quarters for laundry made my year.

Unfortunately, disgustingly, the DoD no longer permits sending hand-packed items to "Any Service Member." Because, you know, weaponized anthrax is so easy to come by. Imagine the loss of human contact, just to prevent a theoretical death or two. For people fighting a war!!!

Go Team Obama.

I'm Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (MC2) Matthew Leistikow. I received one of your care packages from Operation USO Care Package. You have no idea how much it means to the Sailors at sea to know that people support what we do. Two things mean more to me about my job than anything else, knowing how what I do helps our nation, and knowing my nation appreciates what we're doing. I truly love what I do every day and even when it's not so fun, knowing we have your support is a LARGE factor in helping me get through my day.

MC2 Matthew D. Leistikow
USS Dwight D. Eisenhower


I just wanted to take the time to tell you and your staff how much we appreciate the care packages handed out to us. They sure do come in handy with everything being useful.

SFC Rodriguez


I just wanted to thank you for the USO care package. I received mine at Christmas and I appreciate the gifts, especially the Gatorade!

Thanks again,
LTJG Melissa Huska
CGC MIDGETT