Well, Kris Kringle may not be personally making the rounds in the sandbox, but it is definitely time to be thinking about sending your packages to your soldier for the holidays - and SOON.  An article today on msnbc.com has some excellent tips on holiday packages, including some unusual options, such as online gift ordering via TreatsForTroops.com for delivery to a deployed serviceman.  For the soldier who has everything (or, more likely for whom you have no idea what to get) there is a link for AAFES gift certificates, which can also be redeemed at PX's in the sandbox.  As always, remember that some items are prohibited and that properly addressing the packages will help to ensure their timely delivery.

For those who do not know a servicemember but who want to do something to support our troops during the holidays, the article also includes a list of organizations (USO, Operation Military Service, and Soldier's Angels) that will help you bring some holiday cheer to a member of our military serving overseas. 

This is also a good time to remind everyone that packages addressed to “Any Servicemember” will no longer be accepted.  Unfortunately, although most people mean well, there are those who would use this means to hurt our troops.  We have only to think back a few years to remember the deaths caused by anthrax that was sent though the mail.  For that matter, it is also a good time to remind the family members of deployed servicemen to PLEASE safeguard the address of their soldier or sailor.  Again, most people mean well, but by distributing that address, you are putting your son, daughter, husband, wife, or friend at risk.

So, please remember our servicemen and women who are spending their holidays far from their families this holiday season and remember to consider their safety when sending packages or sharing that address.