After several days of traveling, Jeff has officially arrived on base in Afghanistan!!
I received a phone call from him at 4:30am this morning, that's 3pm Afghan time. He sounds great and has been meeting with the Marine who he is replacing. He also said the base is huge and there are lots of people. He say it's going to take awhile to find his way around but he located the phones quickly! I will be trying my best to update our blog when I hear from Jeff, so if you are interested check our blog when you can!
Below is his address along with some shipping information. As Jeff gets settled, I'll ask him for a list of things they need over there and I'll post it to the blog.
1LT Jeffrey Williford
1/23 H&S Co (S-1 Section)
Unit 42090
FPO AP 96427-2090
How to send it
These tips will help you package your items so they make it to your service member safely:
- Pack it in a sturdy box. Pick up free Flat Rate shipping boxes at the Post Office (you may also order online at http://www.usps.com/shipping/prioritymail.htm). Packages cannot weigh more than 70 pounds and cannot be larger than 108 inches in total circumference (total width all the way around plus total length all the way around). Keep in mind that smaller packages have a better chance of getting to your service member faster than large packages.
- Tape it. Don't use string or twine as it can get caught on other packages. Use clear or brown packing tape and be sure to reinforce all seams with tape.
- Address it. Use the proper address for your service member and be sure to include your return address. Place your label on one side only and remove or cover any old labels on the box. Don't list the city or country as this can delay delivery. List your service member's full name, rank, unit, and APO or FPO.
- Postage. Even though your package will be shipped halfway around the world, you will only pay regular domestic postage. Most packages take 10 to 15 days to reach service members in Afghanistan and in the Persian Gulf area. Keep in mind that there can be delays, especially if your service member is in a forward area.
- Customs forms. Fill out PS Form 2976 for any packages being sent to an FPO, APO, or DPO address. The form is available at your Post Office or online at https://webapps.usps.com/customsforms.
- Enclose a card listing the contents of the package. Include the recipient's name and your name on the card. That way, if the package breaks open and the contents scatter during shipping, mail handlers will know what to repack.
