This post is inspired by an “opp” on SocialSpark sponsored by Reader’s Digest. They have a feature on their website called “Make Your Mark.” It’s about the power of one person to make a difference. I know, I know. Reader’s Digest. But honestly, there actually is a subject near and dear to my heart at RD.com – Make Your Mark. On the RD.com “Make Your Mark” page, there is a feature called the Weekly Challenge. It’s a challenge to you out there in Interwebsland to do one small thing (or an even bigger thing) differently, socially or environmentally, etc.. Coincidentally, this current week’s challenge has to do with helping our troops overseas. So, whether RD wants me or not, I am inspired to let it all hang out.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: While I don’t condone this war in Iraq (I can justify Afghanistan), I support our troops. There are plenty of politicians out there who mouth their support, but screw the boys and girls with every vote (cutting hazardous duty pay, cutting health benefits for their families, cutting their healthcare after losing their limbs and their minds — all because the pols put them there, mind you! Rant, rant, rant!) These poor bastards (male and female) in our military have been getting screwed left right and sideways by this president and his minions.

MJ, who is a student of military history going back to the Revolutionary War and beyond, will be the first to tell you how, even in the worst of times, a GI used to be able to get his necessities and a cup of coffee free of charge, mind you, provided by the military. It was the least they could do after grabbing you up out of your nice comfy bed and dropping you into the middle of a war zone. Will you be surprised to know that it’s not the case anymore?

Truth. Today a soldier (marine, airman, sailor, take your pick) gets virtually nothing for free. Not toothpaste, not deodorant, not even a freaking cup of coffee. They’ll get their meals – if they happen to be around when the DFac (dining facility) is open. If they happen to be out on night maneuvers or on duty in the middle of the night, too bad. Today’s soldier overseas is scrounging a microwave (if they have the right kind of electricity) or is being supported by family back home (if they can afford it). They get their uniforms and a couple of uniform t-shirts, etc., but once those are in the laundry or beyond repair, they have to buy their own. Socks. Underwear. Snacks. If the PX even has anything in stock. And the more remote the location, the less and less is in stock. They get a bed and a towel, but no sheets or pillows. Hand-to-God. The whole thing is an embarrassment.

Pisses me off. You know what really pisses me off? For the most part, these men and women aren’t. Pissed off, that is. They miss the creature comforts, the Cheetos, and are desperate for something to flavor the endless bottles of water they have to consume (desert, you know), but any complaints are expressed with humor. This is their duty, you see. They go where they’re sent to do whatever needs to be done. And a lot of them are going out among the people and giving candy, toys and school supplies to the local children. Technically, that’s not really in their job description. You know?

So here’s another deep dark secret from my checkered not-so-past and present: For the last 2 years, I’ve been sending care packages to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan through AnySoldier.com. At various times and according to the season, I’ve sent food, hot cocoa, Slim Jims, snacks, Girl Scout cookies, Crystal Light singles, blankets, sheets, magazines, newspapers, personal hygeine stuff for men and women. I’ve got a stack of stuff in my craft room right now, waiting for me to pack up and ship out. In January, I’ve sent packages of blank valentines, so they could send some back home to their kids and other loved ones. In the summer, I send sunscreen. I send Chapstick all year-round. Sometimes I hear back from the recipients, sometimes not. I’ve had e-mail correspondence and letters and Christmas cards and photos. And sometimes nothing. But they’re kind of busy, you know? So I really don’t expect to hear back from them, but they know that some people back home remember them and care. Whether you’re one of the gung-ho or otherwise. I fall into the “otherwise”.

So, are you inspired? If you are, Adopt a Soldier! Send letters, emails and care packages. You can connect with servicemen and servicewomen of any service branch serving overseas at AnySoldier.com

I’ll tell you what. On my own re-reading of this – prior to clicking the “publish post” button – I’m not quite in the traditional Reader’s Digest mold, am I? It will be really interesting to see if they do accept this.

Want more ideas on how to Make Your Mark? Then visit RD.com – Make Your Mark and take the Weekly Challenge. It’ll make you think.