Sending mail to US servicemen and women

Monday, February 10th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Many of us like to send cards and letters of encouragement to members of the US military. But with the country on high alert status, you might want to keep a few things in mind when you send those special deliveries.

News on Six reporter Patrina Adger says Melanie Irick knows how important the military's job is to our country. In 1965 she said goodbye to her boyfriend when he was called to duty.

And her brother served in the Marine Corp during Vietnam. "It was very hard for him to be over there leaving the family behind." She says everyday from 1965 until her brother came home in 1973, she wrote letters and cards of encouragement. "I kept them in a box and it gives me inspiration today. Whenever I feel down I pick up one of my brothers letters to read it. My life is fabulous compared to what he went through."

She says the words of support during those tough times meant so much to him; too, knowing the country was behind him. With reports of military troops being called to duty daily, Irick says the country will no doubt send lots of mail and food.

But US Postal Service coordinator Becky Wolfe says folks need to remember a few things before doing it. When sending mail to the military oversees Wolfe says to make sure the person's rank and full name is legible, complete and correct.

Make sure the Army Post Office, or Fleet Post Office is included. Anytime you send food oversees or anything weighing more than 16 ounces, you'll have to take it directly to the post office and fill out a customs slip. You can also go to www.usps.com or call 1-800 ASK-USPS, to get specifics on how to mail to the military. "It's especially important to write someone serving in that capacity at this time. We know how important that is."

And Irick knows how important it is. "It meant a lot to my brother and we have to continue to support our troops.â€ To get an APO or FPO number you'll need to contact that specific military branch.

For more information on military shipping you can go OCONUS.COM.