Connect with our heroes

Every donor is encouraged to write a personalized note of support and gratitude. Your note will be printed and hand delivered to one service member while on tour.

Unsure of what to write?
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Tips on writing notes to active military personnel...

- Since we do not know who will be receiving your note, you may begin your letter by writing "Dear Service Member" to be inclusive of all branches of service and both male and female service members.
- Words of encouragement and words of appreciation - Tell them we appreciate YOU! Your service, support, and sacrifice. Thank them.
- Talk about positive things - Don't write about any drama at home.
- Inspirational quotes - Include uplifting, motivating quotes.
- Sports - Write about sports or anything to make them feel connected to home and get their mind off where they are.
- Asking about plans after deployment could be encouraging to some. A goal to look forward to.
- Personal contact information - If you would like to provide an opportunity for your service member to respond, feel free to include your return address and/or e-mail address. However, do not expect that you will get a response. Remember, they are serving in a combat zone.

Please consider this...
- Avoid politics and foul language.
- Don't ask their opinion on the war.
- Don't ask about what's going on.
- Don't ask if they've killed anyone.
- Don't say it is a vacation - obviously deployments are not, but a three or four month TDY* isn't a vacation either when the Soldier is alone.
- Definitely do not say how wonderful it will be free of the responsibilities of wife, kids, or the home. A service member needs to know they are needed. Helping with the kids, encouraging spouses both emotionally and spiritually, whether in person, on the phone, email, letter or webcam, makes them feel needed/wanted. 
- Don't expect a response. As much as they would like to respond and thank you for your kindness, you must remember they are likely in a combat zone and that they most likely will not get a chance to write back.
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* TDY - Temporary Duty assignment away from their current permanent location. In a nutshell ~ away from their family, but not deployed. It could be a time period of a few days to a number of months.