Deployment gifts, question

[Inogame]

This year the folks in the office I work in are sponsoring a Marine deployed in Afghanistan.
He is an in-law's nephew to one of the ladies I work with.

I wanted to ask you guys what reasonably priced, but useful gift would be for a guy on deployment.

He's 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Unit, III MEF.

I believe this is an Artillery unit. (Forgive me if this is obvious, to me it isn't)

I've never served, thus I have little experience or understanding of what things might be appreciated and needed but not supplied.
I'm sure anything would be welcome simply by the gesture, but I'd prefer to make it useful as well if possible.

Any suggestions or insight is greatly appreciated.

Thank you

 

[boom2336]

Re: Deployment gifts, question

Hmmm depending on what his living arrangements are depends on what to send. If he has some nice-to-haves (microwave, tv, dvd player ect ect) plays a big role. Nothing sucks more than getting something awesome and not having a way to utilize it.

I know where we are at it is hella cold so I always ask for hot coco, instant cofee (creamer and sugar) Ramen, Canned soups and chilis with the easy pull tab lids, chips and salsa, tapatio, and general snacks.

Magazines and books(i prefer gun porn) of his taste, Some of the new release DVDs since most people have Lap Tops. Burning new music in MP3 format onto CDs so that way he can update hs playlists with some current stuff.

With it getting cold warm socks, and warm slippers. Maybe a Hoodie of his NFL/College team to wear around the tent. If money isnt an Issue Smart wool warming layers to wear while on Post. Hand warmers.

If you have an REI or camping store the Mountain House meals are nice.

I would get in touch with his family an see if they know what his likes/hobbies are and what his living arrangements are. That will help decide what will be usefull.


I hope these ideas help.

 

[Switchblade]

Re: Deployment gifts, question

It's winter time, cold as, well, cold.
Nice socks that keep feet warm are always welcome, but make sure to wash them before sending(this makes a huge difference)
Packets of Hot Apple Cider and other warming beverage packets are always great too
COOKIES! Christmas Fruit Cakes sitting in a cheesecloth soaked with Wild Turkey 101, or Rum, or Brandy have always and are still my favorite right now.
If you know his sizes, a nice comfy 'lounging in my hooch' shirt and pants is welcomed by so many for the off time(this goes far to bring home the comforts of home)
I also know a kid who was in the USMC hut by me in OEF VII got a killer quilted woobie for Christmas that year. Nothing beats a snuggly blanket from 'home' to make a guy sleep better.

Pretty much anything you come up with will work. I know from experience 'Army' is spoiled rotten when it comes to receiving gear before a deployment, but the Marines appear to be on the 'left out' list so maybe some warm 'authorized' tactical 3.0 Under Armor would be good too. I woulda killed for the 3.0 when the snowstorms and ice storms hit us, adn the cool part is it comes in Marine and Army colors(OD Green for Marines)

 

[Inogame]

Re: Deployment gifts, question

I really appreciate the suggestions guys, I'm going to go warm weather gear - socks, Under Armour. I figure the ladies in the office will go the cookies and other grub route.

I was thinking of tossing this in as a gag gift. You guys don't think this will be taken as an insult do you? I would only mean it for fun, but I'll skip it if it can be misunderstood:

Tactical Snuggie!

 

[Lazlo]

Re: Deployment gifts, question

This should get you started:

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showthreaded&Number=883955