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I am a fresh college graduate and have some brave friends serving on foreign lands, that's why I am always on a lookout for some good gifts to send to our soldiers. Our soldiers, though very brave and noble are also very young like me, most of them in their 20's. They also like the comfort of home and long for a good time. I have some gift ideas that I want to share with you, and hope that these will help you in assembling a good gift basket for military overseas personnel

Gifts for the troops ideally fit into three categories: useful, fun, and good for bartering. Try to include at least two of these three categories in any box you send; a box full of nothing but "toys" is great, but doesn't help keep a soldier's feet warm; similarly, a box full of practical items might be appreciated, but it's no fun to share with one's buddies in the platoon.

Some very useful things include personal hygiene items: baby wipes (more practical than you'd expect!), soaps with lotion or aloe, dental floss soft wash cloths, and favorite brands of standard items like toothpaste or deodorant. These items never go unappreciated. Other great practical items are underwear undershirts, socks, insect repellent and air freshener. But remember, sending food is never a good idea.

Our soldier also appreciate fun gifts. Small electronic devices like iPods (loaded with music before sending it!) and inexpensive digital cameras (with extra memory!) are all great fun gifts. A platoon often has a fortunate soldier whose people send him a portable DVD player; movies and television series. These are fun recreation gifts but one must not forget 'real toys' like basket balls and frisbees also.

You can express your thoughtfulness to your favorite soldier by sending them items that can be bartered. For example, tobacco, used by my own grandfather in World War II, is still a great bargaining chip for soldiers who are looking for somebody to take over a shift or share rations with. Discreetly packaged men's magazines will also be welcome. However, remember that you cannot ship certain items: liquor, drugs, and ammunition should not be mailed, especially internationally.

Soldiers of any rank enjoy inventive presents. Whether a lieutenant or captain, the idea is where one should begin. One must remember military regulations, and only send things which they can get through the mail. Photos and correspondence are always a welcome way to liven any personal gift basket!