This post has nothing to do with my life as of now, but a fellow blogger recently asked about these links and I thought I would share. We aren't in the Army anymore, but I'm still aware of all they go through.
Obviously, J. is no longer in Iraq, but I do remember this is the time of year that is freakishly hot for troops out there - particularly those who have to travel. There are some remedies for this, and if you're the crafty type, this is a cool thing you can actually make for your soldier: cooling neck ties. I suggest using old uniforms for the material. You can also buy them.
I referenced them here in an old post: http://thelongestyear.typepad.com/my_weblog/2006/07/j_called_12jul0.html
You can also buy special liners for your soldier's helmet, which I referenced here: http://thelongestyear.typepad.com/my_weblog/2006/07/a_must_have_for.html. If you decide to buy one of those, call customer service to confirm they fit the newest helmets.
Personally, I think J. would have preferred the helmet liner (apparently tying a bandana around your neck may keep a soldier cool, but might make him look a little less-than-tough), but he got to the point that he didn't care and wound up using the bandanas we sent.
