October commemorates stamp collecting

October is National Stamp Collecting Month. The United States Postal Service founded this program in 1981 as a way to introduce children ages 8 to 12 to the hobby. The program also is aimed at increasing awareness about the recreational benefits of stamp collecting among all age groups.

U.S. Air Forces in Europe post offices are commemorating National Stamp Collecting Month with a variety of activities and promotions in October, including commemorative stamp giveaways to eligible patrons.

“Promotions at each post office will be unique, they may include stamp collection displays, post office tours, or stamp design contests for elementary school students,” said Tech. Sgt. Mark Greene, project coordinator for the 2nd Air Postal Squadron at Ramstein.

This is the 12th year that USAFE is observing the occasion, Sergeant Greene said.

“We have more than 30 different items to present to the customers,” he said. “Contact your local postmaster to see what is going on at your location.”
“Stamp collecting is a hobby that can be enjoyed by the entire family, young and old alike,” said Capt. Fran Tyson, 2nd Air Postal Squadron postal operations flight commander. “It is a fascinating pastime that’s both educational and entertaining.  Promotional contests, events and prizes will vary at participating post offices and we hope interested customers will participate.”

To view the stamps in the 2006 U.S. commemorative stamp program, visit the postal store at www.usps.com/shop and click on “Release Schedule” in the Collector’s Corner. (Courtesy of USAFE News Service)