As we pause to mark the sacrifices of Australian soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen this Anzac Day, we should all remember there are over 2,500 personnel currently deployed on operations from Afghanistan to the Solomon Islands and some 60,000 veterans who have served overseas during the last decade.
This Anzac Day , Australians are encouraged to show their support for our troops by sending them a care package, a letter of appreciation or donating to one of the many organisations that support our serving men and women.’
To show your support for our deployed troops this Anzac Day you can send them a care package, free of charge, through Australia Post. Australia Post allows free delivery for packages weighing no more than 2kg (cubed) to our personnel overseas.
When sending your parcel don’t forget to include a letter of support to the troops and include a stamped self-addressed envelope so they can send a letter back to you.
To send a care package or letter of support to an ADF member posted overseas, address the package or letter to no later than the 12th April 2013:
An Australian Defence Member
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890
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Food “¢ Anzac biscuits “¢ Salted peanuts “¢ Muesli bars “¢ Instant noodles “¢ Lollies “¢ Small tinned consumables “¢ Other commercially manufactured and packaged foods that are non-perishable |
Toiletries “¢ Deodorant (non aerosol) “¢ Shaving cream (non aerosol) “¢ Small bottle of talcum powder “¢ Disposable razors “¢ Shower gel “¢ Lip balm |
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Other ideas “¢ Magazines – from Vogue and Women’s Weekly to Men’s Health and Wheels “¢ Puzzle books “¢ DVDs “¢ Socks “¢ Letters of support “¢ Posters and letters from school children “¢ Stamped, self addressed envelope – this way personnel can thank you for the package |
What not to include “¢ Pornographic material “¢ Alcoholic beverages “¢ Any food prepared or cooked at home, including cakes and biscuits “¢ Clothing (except socks) “¢ Pork products “¢ Cigarettes “¢ Perfumery products |
Alternatively, you may like to consider donating money to the RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund (www.rsl.org.au/Support-Us). The RSL provides care packages to Australian troops biannually, and your support would contribute to this valuable programme.
If you wish to support those personnel who have been wounded on operations and those family members who are suffering financially and socially from the death of a loved one you may like to make a donation to Legacy www.legacy.com.au or Soldier On www.soldieron.org.au
