Maine Send-Off & Iraq Address

Above you'll find pictures from Brian's Maine send-off.  Again, a big thank you to Aunt Joan and Uncle Dave for meeting Brian with special maine goodies (lobster roll for lunch!) and snacks for the plane ride.  Brian certainly appreciated spending time with you both, and his fellow soldiers were jealous on the next leg of the trip (word is he wasn't sharing!).  

We also just received Brian's current address, I have included it below if anyone is interested in sending along a note or a package.  The address will probably change in a few months, but for now, to contact Brian:  THIS IS THE NEW ADDRESS.  1/9 Address will send stuff to the wrong place!  He can still get it, but its a little tricky.  Leave it up to the Army to switch units on him as soon as he gets there.

CPT Brian Murphy

HHC 4/1 CD

COB ADDER

APO AE 09331

The cheapest way to send anything is still to pick up the flat rate boxes at the U.S. Post Office.  They come in several sizes, with the largest 12"x12"x 5-1/2" for $10.95 (this is $2.00 cheaper than the domestic rate for the same size).  They have special Military boxes, but if none are available you should still pay the reduced price as you are mailing to an APO.  You will have to fill out an international customs form, I find that it is easier to pick up both of these in advance and fill it out/pack the flat rate box at home rather than at the post office.  

If you are looking for ideas of things to send, snacks and toiletry items (q-tips, baby wipes, sunscreen) are always appreciated.  Brian generally consumes anything caffeinated, twizzlers, starburts, gum, etc...  He will be in the vast desert expanse known as eastern Iraq, so there will be nowhere to buy anything.  If you have any old books laying around that will also help pass the time at night.

We hope that all is well with each of you!