Geez, really sounds like the only thing consistent with everyone's experience is the inconsistency!
Just to add my $0.02, one reference was called, the other reference got a letter asking him to call, and I never once heard a peep out of them.
Yes, you can.
Yes, you can.
I would have said just go to the contest sponsor (http://www.gungear.ca/camping/case-of-12-mre?rq=meals) but unfortunately they're sold out at the moment.
Try Costco. I know for sure you can get them online if they're not in the store. Different brand from...