Lose pounds (and save money) while supporting American troops

  • Published
  • By Chris Ward
  • AAFES Media
DALLAS --  A recent hike in postal rates has Americans wishing to support deployed troops feeling light in the wallet. A seven pound parcel sent first class mail from the U.S. to Iraq now costs $37 just for shipping and handling, not including the amount already spent for the contents inside the package.

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service's (AAFES') "Gifts from the Homefront" program reduces mail expenses and ensures that virtually all funds earmarked for the troops go to the troops.

Created in March, 2003 after the Department of Defense gave its "stamp of approval," AAFES' troop support initiative makes it easy and affordable to support those downrange. For a flat shipping and handling charge of just $4.95, Americans can send as much as they want through a lightweight gift certificate that can be redeemed for anything in the BX/PX.

"This effort minimizes shipping costs while enabling Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors or Marines to get exactly what they need," said AAFES spokesperson Lt. Col. Dean Thurmond. "Instead of spending a great deal of money sending a hefty package, gift certificates that can be redeemed for merchandise already in the war zone maximizes support for our troops and reduces expenses for their advocates."

AAFES currently operates 53 facilities in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. While inventories can vary from location to location, most facilities carry a full assortment of health and beauty items, toiletries, snacks and drinks.

"Gifts From the Homefront" can be sent to deployed troops by logging on to www.aafes.org or calling 877-770-4438. From there, the gift certificates are sent to individual service members (designated by the purchaser) or distributed to "any service member" through the Air Force Aid Society, American Red Cross, Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, Fisher House, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Operation Homefront, Operation Interdependence® or USO. "Gifts From the Homefront" gift certificates can be redeemed at exchange facilities worldwide. Recent reports indicate troops shopping their contingency exchanges are reaching for beauty items, soft drinks, snacks, Military Exchange Global prepaid calling cards, magazines, movies and more.

As of July 31, approximately 91,000 "Gifts from the Homefront" gift certificates have been sent since the Department of Defense approved the exchange support campaign in March 2003. More than 23,000 of these have been delivered to service members and their families via AAFES' 10 charitable partners.