One of the best ways to battle the US soldiers' boredomand the frustration is mail. Supply lines to are running well, so mail deliveries have become a regular part of the routine. Letters and packages from home can be the best therapy.

"You are down all during the day doing details, doing what you got to do and then at the end of the day when you get mail call you just get a big smile on your face," said David Vaugn as he unloaded a package filled with snacks and an audiotape from his wife and daughter.

The mail arrives as much as a month late and often battered and ripped from the arduous trip. But its condition, no matter how bad, makes little difference.

Most of what family and friends send are items you would expect: food, books, cigarettes. Others are less obvious. Almost every box, for instance, includes baby wipes. Clearly not being used for their intended purpose, it turns out they are the best way to stay clean without the luxury of showers. Shouts of joy can be heard all around camp as soldiers pull out the light blue and pink bags. The same goes for packages of lip balm and foot powder, which are often more exciting than Tootsie Rolls and Cheetos.

In the end however, just getting something is more important than what it is. "I was feeling a little down this morning," said Corporal Daniels after reading a letter from his girlfriend, "so now I am back up. I could go a couple more weeks."

In a war, a quick connection with life at home can bring lasting benefits.

(Agencies)