A Call to Respond

We received word that Drake Herm’s Air Force Unit currently serving in the Middle East was hit hard by ballistic missiles.  As a result, their building with personal belongings were destroyed and moral has hit an all-time low. They have been on serving 12-16 hour shifts with 100-115-degree temperatures. We are rallying together as a congregation to help. Below are some ideas of things that you can purchase, box, and send to the airmen and women of his unit in his name.

 

Address:

Herm Drake

335 EFGS

OPC121, Box 27

APO, AE 09321-0025


From the Shawano United States Post Office:

  1. You must list everything on the “custom Form,” and how many of each item: ex 2 shirts
  2. No essential oils can be sent
  3. No lithium batteries or perishables
  4. Liquids allowed, but must be securely wrapped and reported on “Customs Form.” If box shows leakage it will not get sent.
  5. $35.00 flat rate for their large postage boxes.
  6. If using a non-Post Office Box, they will measure and weigh to determine how much it will cost to send.

Care Package Ideas for Deployed Troops in the Middle East

If you’re sending a care package to a service member stationed in the Middle East, focus on practical, travel‑safe items that will withstand the heat, humidity, and long shipping times. The Middle East can be extremely hot in summer (often 110–112°F), so choose items that stay cool and won’t melt or spoil!

 

Essentials for Comfort & Hygiene

  • Travel‑size toiletries: Shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, deodorant (non‑aerosol), lip balm, hand sanitizer 
  • Cooling gear: Cooling bandanas, cooling towels, mini fans, metal water bottles, water squirters 
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, SPF Chapstick, after‑sun lotion (aloe), cooling wipes 
  • Foot & skin care: Foot powder, anti‑chafing powder, baby wipes, hand warmers (for cooler months) 
  • Pain relief: Pain‑relieving topical cream, Vicks VapoRub (for cooler months) 

Snacks That Survive the Heat

  • Beef jerky, turkey jerky, summer sausage, bacon
  • Powdered drink mix(instant coffee, cocoa, tea bags) 
  • Popcorn, Pringles(can keeps chips protected) 
  • Freeze‑dried ice cream or freezer pops 
  • Pop‑Tarts(if not too hot) 
  • Avoid: chocolate, gummies, or other items that melt 

Fun & Downtime Activities

  • Games: Board games, cards, foam footballs, frisbees 
  • Books & puzzles: Activity books, crossword puzzles, Sudoku 
  • Jokes & mementos: Hand‑written letters, photos, kids’ drawings, scrapbooks 
  • Small electronics: Flashlights, multi‑tools, duct tape 

Seasonal & Themed Ideas

  • Summer: Cooling bandanas, water bottles, sunscreen, powdered drink mix, freeze‑dried treats 
  • Winter: Hand/foot warmers, long underwear, fingerless gloves, stocking caps 
  • Holiday: Candy canes, caramel corn, cookies (waxed paper & sealed in containers to prevent mold) 

What to Avoid

  • Pork or other culturally sensitive foods 
  • Alcohol, pornography, expired items 
  • Perishable foods that can’t be shipped safely 

Tip: Always check USPS restrictions for the destination country, use travel‑size containers for liquids, and seal everything in plastic bags to protect from heat and moisture 

By combining practical essentials, heat‑resistant snacks, and fun items, you’ll give your deployed friend something that’s both useful and a morale boost.