As we start the holiday season, it is not only important to remember those special people in our lives, but all special people in all our lives, and that includes this nation's warriors stationed around the world assuring our safety and freedom.

It is a difficult time of year for our troops as this is a time when they miss us the most. And we are aware even more so that they are not with us, especially as we set the Thanksgiving table, and notice we aet for one less family member. As we near Veteran's Day on the 11th of November, I am moved by the loneliness so many of the military families will be experiencing.

I am a military daughter and a military spouse. I understand intimately what it means for a father to fight a ground war and a husband to fight an air war. To pass the time, and to satiate the sadness and worry, I made an art out of sending care packages. During the Gulf War, we did not see the amount of supportive companies we do now, since the internet boom. My mom and I researched everything we could possibly send to my father. We learned what was appropriate and what would most likely be confiscated. We even contacted the Lipton tea company, and because of our tenacity, that company sent boxes and boxes of free iced tea bags to our troops, since so many were tiring of kool-aid and gatorade products.

Currently, there are more and more companies specializing in care packages for our troops. But as a military spouse, I am very discerning. I look for military discounts, or companies who are willing to ship to APO/FPO addresses. Many companies still do not. I have found one local and willing company in Ferndale, WA. Run by Patrick Jordan, www.giftbasketbounty.com sells custom-tailored gift baskets for all occasions, but most importantly Military Gift Baskets. 

As the holidays approach, consider shipping a gift basket to someone overseas, or even here in the Continental United States. Many active duty military members are shipped overseas from their CONUS duty stations, while Reservists from around the country are then sent to fill-in for those deployed. Sadly, there are many items that cannot be shipped, but Gift Basket Bounty has specially selected items that can be shipped overseas, including teddy bears, spa items, games, and culinary treats. 

This fabulous local company is already shipping Thanksgiving Baskets and taking orders for Christmas baskets for our troops. Shipments usually take 1-2 weeks for most overseas location, but can take as long as 2-3 weeks. Gift Basket Bounty does ship to APO/FPO addresses through the USPS Priority Mail, with US Postal fees applying. All of their Military gift bskets are available for shipment to anywhere in the USA, as well.

When shipping to APO/FPO addresses, mention discount code "MIL2008", and receive a 5% discount on your order! This supportive company is offering the code for shipments only going to APO and FPO addresses.

Even if you do not have a loved one overseas, but are still interested in supporting our troops, consider visiting one of the following sites to learn more about "adopting" a military member or even a whole platoon!

http://www.adoptaplatoon.org/new/

http://www.give2thetroops.org/

http://www.adoptaussoldier.org/

Patrick suggested that if you have a warrior with allergies, please indicate when ordering, as substitutions can be made. Also, there are Kosher gift baskets available. And for our Female military members abroad, Gift Basket Bounty has several spa gift packages available.  Many of the baskets are offered in various sizes for all types of appetites!

In reading the testimonials, it is obvious that customers appreciate Gift Basket Bounty's support of our Military. I hope as Veteran's Day approaches, you are reminded of what our beloved military has sacrificed on our behalf, and are vigilant as you sit around your packed holiday dining tables, while so many have empty seats. Perhaps you will offer a little piece of the United States to our deployed troops through one of the holiday gift baskets offered by Gift Basket Bounty in Ferndale, WA. Remember your discount code "MIL2008" when ordering. You may also call #866-478-7073 to place your order.