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Re: In need of help, please don't laugh.
I'm not a backpacker, either, though it's on my list of "want-to-do's" and I have been gearing up for years...
You've probably already got all this, but just in case --
You'll want: a decent first aid kit; good layering clothing, including a weatherproof layer (Gore-Tex rain jacket and pants, or similar); sufficient high protein and carb-loaded foods for energy (energy bars aren't that heavy and keep well; same with beef jerkey, dried fruits and nuts, etc. Watch your salt intake though, or you'll need even more water!); a space blanket (just in case; they are so small it's silly not to pack one!); a good topographic map and compass (at minimum), and if using a GPS unit, spare batteries; weatherproof matches; water purification tablets or and/or a water filter (again, just in case); for comfort -- a lightweight sleeping pad.
It sounds like a lot, but most of this is quite lightweight and makes all the difference if your plans or the weather changes in unanticipated ways.
And, inform friends or family of when you're leaving, your expected route of travel, when you expect to be back, etc.
Finally, I echo the thanks for your service to our country.
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