WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) reminded Delawareans planning on sending packages, cards, and letters this holiday season to military members in Iraq, Afghanistan, and across the globe of relevant postal deadlines. 

"As a former Naval Flight Officer who served overseas, I can testify that when stationed in faraway corners of the globe nothing quite compares to receiving a special note or package from loved ones during the holiday season," said Sen. Carper. "I encourage Delawareans to keep the Postal Service's recommended mailing dates in mind as they prepare for sending greetings, gifts, and reminders of home to their friends and family members serving in our military this holiday season."

To ensure the delivery of holiday cards and packages by Dec. 25, 2012 to military APO/FPO addresses overseas, the Postal Service recommends that mail for service members be sent no later than the dates listed below.

MILITARY MAILING DEADLINES:

The Postal Service has also provided these dates as a guide for dropping holiday wishes into the mail. Postmarking for domestic mail — mailed from and delivered within the U.S. — and international mail destined for overseas should occur by:

• First-Class Mail: Dec. 20^th 
• Priority Mail: Dec. 21^st 
• Express Mail: Dec. 22^nd 
• Parcel Post: Dec. 14^th