How to Write to Military Personnel

If you went to the church, synagogue or other place of worship of your choice today, or went to work without fear of being harmed for your political affiliation or social stature, or enjoyed any of the freedoms people living in democratic societies enjoy, you can thank a member of the military. These brave, selfless men and women risk their lives every day so that we can go on with ours without a second thought. Here's how you can write a letter professing your gratitude to a member of the United States Armed Forces.

Things You'll Need

• Address of a member of the military
• Stationery
• Pen
• Envelope
• Stamp

Instructions

1. Find the address of a member of the military by asking friends, co-workers and relatives if they know of anyone. If you cannot find someone with firsthand information, contact an outreach program that will forward the letter to a member of the military on your behalf.

2. Write the letter on good stationery using a pen. Writing in your own handwriting is much more personal and meaningful than a letter printed from your computer. The colorful stationery will brighten the recipient's day, and pen is more durable than pencil and more legible than marker.

3. Open your letter with a warm, friendly salutation. Rather than "To Whom It May Concern," or "Dear Soldier," try something more affectionate such as "Dear Friend," or "Hello to My Favorite Marine!"

4. Introduce yourself to reader much as you would a new friend. Talk about where you live, your family situation, where you work and any hobbies you enjoy. Ask about his or her family, where he or she lives and so on. Even if the recipient is unable to respond, your upbeat tone and your interest will be well received.

5. Write your address within the body of your letter, if you are hoping for a response. Envelopes can be torn or damaged in the mail, especially when traveling long distances. By including your contact information within the letter, the military personnel you write to will be able to return the correspondence.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are comfortable, include your e-mail address in your letters. Many members of the military have access to and prefer e-mail correspondence. Send along some paper and a self addressed envelope to increase your chance of a response. Military personnel serving in Iraq and Afghanistan do not have to pay for postage to the United States; some other deployments do. Mail and packages sent to oversees military (APO) addresses can take a long time to reach their destination. If you want letters or packages to arrive in time for a specific event, such as a holiday or birthday, mail them early.

• Do not send pictures that are inappropriate or sexual in nature. These may be illegal depending on the deployment.

Resources

• Forgotten Soldiers Outreach
• Any Soldier
• Operation Military Support
• Operation Military Pride