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I am a recent college graduate and I am forever on the lookout for good gift ideas for my friends in the armed forces. On one hand, these soldiers are brave and noble. On the other hand, they are also in their 20's, just like me i.e., not used to not having the comforts of home or the thrill of a good time. I wish to let you know my own gift idead for my friends in the troops. I hope you will be able to utilize these ideas to assemble a good gift basket for military overseas.

Gifts for the troops ideally fit into three categories: useful, fun, and good for bartering. Try to include at least two of these three categories in any box you send; a box full of nothing but "toys" is great, but doesn't help keep a soldier's feet warm; similarly, a box full of practical items might be appreciated, but it's no fun to share with one's buddies in the platoon.

Some great useful items might include personal hygiene items: baby wipes (more practical than you'd expect!), soap with lotion or aloe, dental floss, and soft wash clothes are fabulous ideas, and a favorite brand of a standard item like deodorant or toothpaste never goes unappreciated. Other great practical items include new underwear, undershirts, and socks, bug repellent, and air freshener. Remember, though: sending food is not a good idea.

Our troops also love fun things. for fun send gifts to our troops like small electronic devices such as iPods loaded with music, Inexpensive digital cameras with extra memory. often there are some lucky guy in platoons whose family sent a portable DVD player with movies and television series. Don't forget to send "Real Toys" too like baseballs and Frisbees.

It's always nice to send items that your favorite soldier can barter. Tobacco, a item that my own grandfather used for bartering in World War II, is still a great bargaining tool for soldiers looking for somebody to take over a shift or share rations. Men's magazines, very discreetly packaged, will be gleefully welcome as well. Remember, though, that there are many things that cannot be shipped: liquor, drugs, and ammunition should never travel by mail, especially internationally.

Hopefully you've received some fantastic ideas of what to give your favorite lieutenant, sergeant, or captain. Never forget to check rules and regulations of what is allowed to be sent to the service members. Remember that a letter and a picture are always welcomed as well. Enjoy making your own gift basket!