"I want to write a letter. But what do I say?"

Idea List for Sample Letters

It's always nice for our military personnel to receive a personal message from a supportive civilian back home. The serviceman or servicewoman who receives your care package will enjoy the care with which it was packed, even if you choose not to include a personal message. Either way, it is a joy for the sender and for the receiver.

For those who wish to send a letter or message and need a little help getting started, the following is a list of starter ideas that may help get the words to flow. Don't feel limited to these ideas, feel inspired by them - they're only a beginning.

• Who am I? (a little information about yourself)
• Well wishes (your hopes that the message finds them well, healthy, in good spirits, etc.)
• Questions about them (where have you visited since joining the service?)
• Why I got involved in Operation Interdependence® or another donating group (maybe a personal story which expresses what about the program inspired you to volunteer)
• An expression of gratitude (keep it short, simple and sincere - such as thank you for all of your work keeping America strong and free)
• A patriotic or inspirational message or quotation (something that inspires YOU)
• Information on how to write back (address of your school, club or contact)
  

Please, make sure you DO NOT SEND any of the following:

• Political propaganda
• Questions intended to obtain privileged information
• Inappropriate visual materials
• Personal identifying information