AAFES offers support to servicemembers Published Nov. 16, 2004 DALLAS (AFPN) -- With the holidays quickly approaching, many Americans are searching for ways to reach out to troops stationed overseas. Anticipating a rush of mail from well-wishers, Department of Defense officials remind people that, "Due to security concerns and transportation constraints, the DOD no longer accepts items to be mailed to 'Any Servicemember.'" They report some people have tried to avoid this prohibition by sending large numbers of packages to an individual servicemember's overseas address, which, DOD officials said, clogs the mail system. It also causes unnecessary delays in delivery, and military postal officials cannot guarantee delivery by a specific date because of processing constraints. People wishing to send support to troops overseas have another option. The Army and Air Force Exchange Service's "Gifts from the Homefront" and "Help Our Troops Call Home" programs allow anyone to make a direct contribution toward the morale of deployed troops without compromising security or increasing the strain on the military mail system. "Gifts from the Homefront" certificates, which can be purchased by any individual, business or civic organization, allow troops to purchase items of necessity and convenience at exchange facilities worldwide including 51 supporting operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The gift certificates may also be personalized with a message to troops who find themselves so far from home. Because the gift certificates can be used for merchandise already stocked at contingency locations, "Gifts from the Homefront" are a safe alternative to traditional care packages, AAFES officials said. Servicemembers can purchase exactly what they need with the certificates because they can be applied to a wide range of products. Reports from Iraq and Afghanistan indicate that the certificates are being used for the latest CDs and DVDs, comfort items such as snacks and beverages and phone cards for those all-important calls home. AAFES' Commander Maj. Gen. Kathryn Frost said "Gifts from the Homefront" and "Help our Troops Call Home" are excellent ways for all to show they care. "I encourage every American who is concerned about the welfare of deployed troops to buy a gift certificate or a phone card," General Frost said. "While these troops are doing superhuman tasks in countries half way around the world, we must remember that, after all, they too are human, and the holidays can be a tough time to be away from friends and family. Something as simple as a $20 gift certificate or $39 phone card can deliver the much-needed 'connection home' troops crave during the holiday season." Those wishing to send "Gifts from the Homefront" can log on to www.aafes.com or call (877) 770-4438. "Help Our Troops Call Home" phone cards are also available at aafes.com or by calling (800) 527-2345. Gift certificates and/or phone cards may be sent to an individual servicemember (designated by the purchaser) or distributed to "any servicemember" through the USO, American Red Cross, Air Force Aid Society or Fisher House.