How to Bring Joy to a Service Person Overseas During the Holidays

Take the time to remember the service men and women who are far from home during the holidays. Your efforts can help boost their morale while they are on duty.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Calligraphy Inks
• Calligraphy Pens
• Photographs
• Cookies
• Magazines
• Envelopes
• Fountain Pens
• Stationery

1. Contact service groups such as the United Service Organization and the Red Cross to find out how you can help this season. You can visit their Web sites or find a local branch through your phone book or by calling information.
2. Contact the National Military Morale/Pen Pal Campaign to connect with soldiers who have requested mail. This organization serves service men and women at more than 1,000 destinations worldwide.
3. Decide if there is a special branch of the military that you want to support or if you want your efforts to go to those most in need.
4. Suggest that your religious organization, civic club or youth group sponsor a letter-writing campaign to send mail prior to the holidays. This way, you can send letters for the entire unit so no one will be left out.
5. Find pen pal campaigns that operate via e-mail. This can save you time and effort, yet still have the same effect. One such option is the Support Our Soldiers' "10,000 or Bust" campaign, which provides a form letter for you to personalize. The organization will print it out and send it in the mail.
6. Offer thanks to the service person for serving the nation and include best wishes and good cheer. Request that the same letter be sent to several people so you can magnify the effect. Provide your mailing address for a response - but don't expect one.
7. Include basic information in your letters such as your name, age and what you do for a living. Also provide details about things that interest you, including your hobbies and your family.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to send out the mail well in advance, as it could take a very long time to arrive at its destination.
• Donate money to a service group to host a holiday party for the children of those stationed overseas.
• Send a care package that includes holiday candy or some token gifts such as socks, books and magazines.

Who Can Help:

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