Soldiers' Angels has been getting heaploads of Heroes requesting adoption.

Here's some of what they've had to say:

I'm submitting my little sister's name to an angel...She would love to receive care packages to share with others. I received a few packages from an angel while I was in Iraq and it always made my day!!! Thank you for all that you do

I am asking to see if I can be adopted because I rarely get mail and wanted to know if there was any way that I can be adopted.I will write back and I thank anyone out there who wants to adopt me. Thank you for all that you are doing back in the states

I was wondering if you could tell me how to get adopted because I was told about this program by --------- who was adopted through this site and wanted to know if I could do the same. Thank you again for your time and for caring about the soldiers.

I was wanting to know if I could be adopted because I rarely get mail here and wanted to see if I could get adopted. I am stationed here in Afghanistan but hardly get mail. Thank you for you help.

I am stationed here in Afghanistan and wanted to know if I can get adopted because I do not get mail very often and it gets lonely because it makes soldiers morale go down because we have no mail. Thank you for your time.

I WAS WANTING TO KNOW IF I CAN STILL BE ADOPTED BECAUSE I RARELY GET MAIL AND MY MORALE IS DOWN. I WILL APPRECIATE EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO WRITE TO ME OR E-MAIL ME. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HELP THAT YOU ARE GIVING TO ME AND THE SOLDIERS.

So I ask again, Have you got what it takes to be a Soldiers' Angel?

The name Soldiers' Angels is a slight misnomer - there are Heroes from all branches waiting to be adopted - deployed in a number of locations.

Want to know some of what's involved?

By adopting a servicemember, you are committing to ongoing snail mail and packages (1-2 letters a week, and 1-2 packages a month). If your soldier gives you his/her email address, you are welcome to email them, but written communication is very important. Sometimes email is unreliable in the field, or their ability to use it is infrequent. When they do have access, it is often spent contacting family.

If you are looking for a one-time mailing, or to just do holiday support, visit the Soldiers' Angels site to see how you can help.

Bear in mind that some Angels never hear from their soldiers, or hear very infrequently. If you’re lucky enough to get a real writer / emailer, it’s a great experience. Even if they don’t write or email frequently, though, rest assured that they do appreciate it. Some may be too shy to write, or they may not know what to say. Some may just be incredibly busy.

An Important Note: Under no circumstances or conditions is an "angel" to contact or attempt to contact the military regarding her/his "soldier." The soldier is always the one to pay the price for this. In addition, you should never share your soldier’s address outside of Soldiers’ Angels. If anyone you know would like to send something to your soldier, they should give the letter / item to you for mailing.

Frequently Asked Questions
How much time/money will this take?
The most important thing about being a Soldier's Angel is to be steady and consistent. Set a goal for your adoption activities and try to stick with it - at least one note or card a week and one package a month is a reasonable goal for most people. If you can do more, that's wonderful. A card, letter or note takes only a first class stamp. A care package can be simple or lavish, either will be greatly appreciated. Perhaps a group you belong to (work, church etc.) would be willing to help defray expenses or help collect care package items. To avoid duplication, keep a record of what you send. All care packages are shared so don't worry about sending something your soldier won't like.

What should I do first?
Best bet is to sit down and write a note or letter of introduction. Mention that you are a member of the group Soldiers' Angels and that that's where you got the soldier's address. Tell your soldier a little about yourself, your family, where you live - those sorts of things. Explain why you joined Soldiers' Angels. Be positive, be supportive. If you are praying for your soldier, tell him/her that as well. Remember that your soldier may or may not be like you. He/she may come from an entirely different kind of family and/or culture. Be sure to include your email address as well. When you join, you'll be assigned a Mentor (I'm one) who will help you with questions and how to get started.

How soon should I expect to hear back from my soldier?
In a word, NEVER. Deployed soldiers are just that - deployed in a difficult place doing dangerous jobs. Many soldiers don't have the time or inclination to write letters. It's not because they don't appreciate your support. Some may be reluctant to write to someone they don't know or may be self conscious about their writing skills. You may send letters and packages for a year and never hear anything, or only hear once your Hero has returned home. Don't be discouraged. Those with relatives in the military KNOW that each piece of mail is appreciated whether you get a reply or not. Occasionally you might want to enclose a self-addressed envelope (no stamp necessary) and some paper. If you do get a reply it will be a great treat.

How do I decide what to send?
There are many lists of suggestions on the internet. Remember that packages will be subjected to much jostling and high heat. Check out these links for ideas:
Operation Military Pride
A Soldier's Blog Care Package Ideas
Soldiers' Angels Comprehensive Care Package Suggestions

In addition there are many commercially available care packages. Just put "military care package" in your search engine and you'll find many companies who will send care packages.

What are the rules about mailing?
For detailed information about mailing rules and regulations, click here to visit the US Postal Service website. In general, APO mail is treated the same as Domestic US mail. First class rates for postcards and letters. Just put on a stamp and put the flag up on your mailbox!

Packages are a bit more complicated. The fastest way to send a package is by Priority Mail. Free Priority Mail supplies are available from your local Post Office or can be ordered direct from the USPS website. This includes free boxes, envelopes, labels and stickers. For detailed instructions on ordering from the website, click here.

All packages are subject to high heat and much bouncing around. Choose items accordingly and pack securely. Scented items and liquids should be placed in zip lock bags. Use lots of packaging tape! If you're going to be sending lots of packages, one of those packaging tape "rollers" is a good investment. Because of the heat, aerosol cans are not a good idea. Each package will require a customs declaration form. It is easiest if these are filled out before you go to the PO. Get a handful on your first visit and you'll be prepared for the next time. You will need to fill out your name and address, your soldier's name and address and list the items in the box. It doesn't need to be an item by item list; usually "snack foods" or "toilet articles" will do the trick. Some items are NOT ALLOWED in care packages - pork or pork products, alcohol, pornography, glass containers or anti-Muslim literature. For a detailed list, click here.

How long does it take a letter or package to get to my adopted soldier?
In general you can figure at least 10 days for a letter and 14 days for a package. If your soldier is moving around or "in the field", it may take longer. (My speed record for a package is one week from my house to Baghdad).

One very important - and serious - note: Soldiers' Angels is not - Repeat, NOT - a dating service. If that's what you're looking for, go somewhere else.

My involvement with this organization is probably the thing I'm most proud of. The experience of being able to personally thank so many of our brave Heroes is indescribable.
So if you're still reading, and ready to adopt, apply here.

If you would like to support one of Soldiers' Angels many projects, visit the site here. (And watch the site for a page about Wings of Hope, coming soon)