BREWER – This year when people in northern, eastern and central Maine buy Girl Scout cookies during the annual sale, they will have the opportunity to send a box of cookies to American soldiers stationed in the far-flung corners of the world.

The Abnaki Girl Scout Council is working with the Family Program Office of the Maine National Guard to distribute Girl Scout cookies to Maine soldiers. Cookies also will be presented to soldiers returning home, and some will be sent to military personnel on active duty in Iraq and other countries.

For 92 years, Girl Scouts of the USA has dedicated itself to helping girls navigate the rocky, humorous and bewildering world of growing up. The organization cultivates values, social conscience and self-esteem while teaching them the skills they will need to succeed as adults.

In Girl Scouting, girls discover the fun, friendship and power of girls together. They learn to work as a team, set goals and develop plans for reaching their goals.

During the annual Girl Scout cookie sales campaign, girls learn about business ethics, advertising, marketing and money management. When cookie delivery time rolls around, they learn the importance of fulfilling commitments.

Girl Scout cookies may be ordered by mail by sending a check for $3.50 per box to: Abnaki Girl Scout Council, 156 North Main St., Brewer 04412. Area businesses are invited to help send a taste of home to Maine soldiers by calling (800) 464-3858, or 989-7474. The cost of a box of cookies is $3.50 and postage is about $1 per box. Credit card payment is accepted with telephone orders.