Imagine being far from home in a country you’ve never seen before. You aren’t there to vacation. Your day-to-day responsibilities are demanding and comforts you get in the States are few and far between. Worse, you don't get to see your loved ones.

Our troops deal with this and more. We benefit every day from the sacrifices these men and women make for us, so it’s no wonder that so many Americans want to give back in some way. Show your gratitude by sending them a note to lift their spirits.

Writing to an American Servicemember or Veteran

Emails, Websites, and the Internet

Several groups have set up programs that allow citizens to contact active members of the military through email, chat groups, snail mail, and even through mailed care packages.

In this day and age, we have easy access to various forms of electronics. It’s so simple to connect with a soldier through email, Facebook, or military pen pal chat sites. Sending that “thank you” can be a bright spot in your week and theirs.

Pen Pal Websites

Some sites have different schedules for pen pals that you can choose from. One in particular offers you a choice between contacting a soldier once (often done on holidays) or writing every week for 6 to 12 months. With this longer option, you really get to know the person you are writing to and they get to know you. Many people make strong connections and build lasting friendships this way. And, of course, many veterans will appreciate knowing that their efforts are valued.

Snail Mail

Snail mail adds the personal touch that cannot be sent through a laptop. If you’ve ever received a heart-felt, hand-written letter in the mail, you already know that.

It’s about seeing the loops of each letter g and the curves of the c’s and b’s, knowing that a warm hand took the time to write out each one. Handwriting is unique to each person and makes those written words more meaningful. Other materials, like photos, artwork, etc. can be meaningful as well. Anything that reminds our soldiers what they’re fighting for and what’s waiting for them back home will bring a smile to their faces.

Care Packages

With care packages, you can send all sorts of comforts that troops might not have access to, including candy bars, snack foods, small games, and many other things.

There are a few restrictions on what you can send to the field, so it’s important to check first if the items you want to send are allowable.

Many pen pal sites can tell you what is generally permissible, and many of these same sites also offer to send a package for you, which is great if you’re feeling a little indecisive about what to get or you don’t want to go through all the hassle of actually sending something off.

About Low VA Rates

Low VA Rates supports our troops, and we encourage you to take advantage of different pen pal groups. Why not make a difference in someone’s life, especially when that person has already made a difference in yours?

Feel free to share your military pen pal experiences with us in the comments below!