07/20/2026
Drake attended our childcare center many years ago…I copied and pasted this post from Zion Lutheran’s page, but thought I’d post on our page in hopes to spread the word a little more! The Herm family and all of our service members along with their families are in our thoughts and prayers!
We received word that Drake Herm’s Air Force Unit currently serving in the Middle East was hit hard by ballistic missiles. As a result, their building with personal belongings were destroyed and moral has hit an all-time low. They have been on serving 12-16 hour shifts with 100-115-degree temperatures. We are rallying together as a congregation to help. Below are some ideas of things that you can purchase, box, and send to the airmen and women of his unit in his name.
You must list everything on the “custom Form,” and how many of each item: ex 2 shirts
No essential oils can be sent
No lithium batteries or perishables
Liquids allowed, but must be securely wrapped and reported on “Customs Form.” If box shows leakage it will not get sent.
$35.00 flat rate for their large postage boxes.
If using a non-Post Office Box, they will measure and weigh to determine how much it will cost to send.
Care Package Ideas for Deployed Troops in the Middle East
If you’re sending a care package to a service member stationed in the Middle East, focus on practical, travel‑safe items that will withstand the heat, humidity, and long shipping times. The Middle East can be extremely hot in summer (often 110–112°F), so choose items that stay cool and won’t melt or spoil!
Essentials for Comfort & Hygiene
Travel‑size toiletries: Shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, deodorant (non‑aerosol), lip balm, hand sanitizer
Cooling gear: Cooling bandanas, cooling towels, mini fans, metal water bottles, water squirters
Sun protection: Sunscreen, SPF Chapstick, after‑sun lotion (aloe), cooling wipes
Foot & skin care: Foot powder, anti‑chafing powder, baby wipes, hand warmers (for cooler months)
Pain relief: Pain‑relieving topical cream, Vicks VapoRub (for cooler months)
Snacks That Survive the Heat
Beef jerky, turkey jerky, summer sausage, bacon
Powdered drink mix(instant coffee, cocoa, tea bags)
Popcorn, Pringles(can keeps chips protected)
Freeze‑dried ice cream or freezer pops
Pop‑Tarts(if not too hot)
Avoid: chocolate, gummies, or other items that melt
Fun & Downtime Activities
Games: Board games, cards, foam footballs, frisbees
Books & puzzles: Activity books, crossword puzzles, Sudoku
Jokes & mementos: Hand‑written letters, photos, kids’ drawings, scrapbooks
Small electronics: Flashlights, multi‑tools, duct tape
Seasonal & Themed Ideas
Summer: Cooling bandanas, water bottles, sunscreen, powdered drink mix, freeze‑dried treats
Winter: Hand/foot warmers, long underwear, fingerless gloves, stocking caps
Holiday: Candy canes, caramel corn, cookies (waxed paper & sealed in containers to prevent mold)
What to Avoid
Pork or other culturally sensitive foods
Alcohol, po*******hy, expired items
Perishable foods that can’t be shipped safely
Tip: Always check USPS restrictions for the destination country, use travel‑size containers for liquids, and seal everything in plastic bags to protect from heat and moisture
By combining practical essentials, heat‑resistant snacks, and fun items, you’ll give your deployed friend something that’s both useful and a morale boost.
If you want to ship a package to drake’s unit please message me and I can get you the info.
