It is, no doubt, difficult for those serving their country overseas to spend the holidays separated from their loved ones. To help spread some cheer, the Sun Journal asked readers to send in photos and military addresses for area servicemen and servicewomen who will be away from home this holiday season. We urge readers to send them a card or letter. If you send a care package, know they especially appreciate flea collars (worn on ankles to ward off sand fleas), unscented sunscreen, lip balm, books, DVDs, Visine, magazines and ready-to-eat snacks. Baked goods should be packed in sealable, plastic containers. Decorative items aren’t advised because packages will be screened by security and the metal might set off an alarm.

Mailing deadlines recommended by the post office to ensure delivery by Dec. 25: parcel airlift mail (on a space-available basis), Dec. 3; priority mail for letters and packages, Dec. 10; first class for letters and cards, Dec. 10; express for letters or packages (available to selected military post offices; call your local post office or 1-800-ASK-USPS), Dec. 19. There is an exception. First class and priority mailings for military addresses with a zip code beginning with 093 should be sent by Dec. 5.