How to Get an American Soldier for a Pen Pal

Honor a soldier's service by becoming a pen pal.

Befriending an American soldier is incredibly rewarding. Military pen pals allow you to communicate with men and women serving bravely on the battlefield. Learn about your soldier-friend by sending words of thanks, encouragement and asking questions about who they are and their desire to serve. Getting an American soldier for a pen pal is a simple proposition and can lead to a relationship that you can build on and explore for years to come.

Instructions

1. Visit the Military Pen Pals website or another online organization or site connecting people with military pen pals. Complete the registration form to access the site for free. Search pen pal listings and click the e-mail link associated with the solider you choose.

2. Communicate cordially and politely with any and all pen pals. Offer basic personal information about yourself and ask standard personal questions about the soldier. Write back and forth with your pen pal as often as possible. Ask for military unit information -- the address of their home base in the U.S., for example -- so that you can send hard copy letters, cards or care packages.

3. Send a care package to a soldier or an established pen pal. Include basic non-perishable foods, games, personal hygiene items and other items to suit your soldier's interests and needs. Address the care package with the soldier's name, home base address and military postal zip code. Write a card or letter and include your contact information. Thank the soldier for serving and request that you keep in touch via e-mail and snail mail.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not send alcohol, weapons or other forbidden materials to soldiers.

• Keep all communications platonic and cordial.

References

• Military Pen Pals: Soldiers
• Troop Care Pack: Sending Packages
• Any Soldier: Contacting and Communicating with Soldiers