I read "USO to focus on women" (article, Nov. 21), and while makeup may not be the most practical item women receive in a care package, it’s fun and different.

In complete disagreement with the writer of "Makeup? You’re kidding, right?" (letter, Nov. 24), it is exactly what women serving overseas need. It’s a fun way to reclaim some of the normalcy and femininity we lose when we are deployed and away from home. I don’t think it sends the wrong message, and it has nothing to do with equality.

Makeup — among the other items that the United Service Organizations plans on adding — is a thoughtful way to tailor care packages to women. Wearing makeup while overseas does not automatically equal violations of General Order No. 1, nor does it mean that every female servicemember will be prancing around.

If a female servicemember has a good day because she feels good about herself due to something she got in a USO care package — whether it is makeup, nail polish or her favorite brand of lip balm — then I say the USO has accomplished something.

Sgt. Megan SpearContingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq

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