[FloridaSandman]

Preface (i.e.: makes a short post longer): My DW and I are retired military. Son was Marine, Iraq, got out 3 years ago, now in Army, stationed in Alaska, headed back in Sept. (Stationed in 'Alaska'? . . headed for 'Iraq"? Gotta Luv that military logic! ) Birthday in Aug. We want to get him a digital cam to carry with him.

Buying/Sending a digital camera to our Military Member's overseas takes much thought. I offer the following - IMHO - for your consideration:

* Do Not get, or send, them, a 7-10 megapixel camera. These cameras are big, bulky, and they have no way to carry, or use, them, safely, when they are in the field.
IMHO - If you want to send/give them a digital camera, a 3-5 megapixel camera will more than do what they want. It will still print very good pictures and will fit in their vest pocket, when they want it.

* Never Give/Send them a camera that uses 'proprietary' batteries! . . Many digital cameras use special/'proprietary', rechargable batteries that will only work in that specific camera. There is No Way they can recharge them in the field.
IMHO - Do not get/send any camera that will not/does not use AA (double-A) batteries. as replacements, in the camera. These are usually available for them and easily replaceable, as needed.

* Insure you include an extra 'card' with the camera. . . . All cameras have a 'slot' for a picture storage card.
IMHO - I, personaly, prefer to use the 'SD' card. Make sure the camera has a slot for an 'expansion' card. (Like I said, I just happen to like the SD card.) I would recommend the card be at least 4GB.

My Bad - Wags had a digital camera for $40 last week, wife wanted for him, I wanted to check it. My fault - We lost out - My fault. Just don't spend a fortune. Sometimes even I make mistakes. (Yea! Even I have a hard time believing that.
Our kid's want their cameras. Guess it's still up to us to decide when they what and what they really they need - no matter how old they are. Anyhow, just a thought, and, as alway - offered IMHO,