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Writing to Service Members

There’s something timeless and powerful about a handwritten letter. Unlike a quick text
or email, it shows thought, care, and effort. These are qualities that mean the world to Service
Members far from home. A simple note can remind them that they’re seen,
appreciated, and never forgotten.

If you have thought about writing but aren’t sure where to start, you are not alone. Many
people struggle with their first letter, wondering what to say or how to say it. The good
news is, there is no perfect formula. Your words don’t need to be polished or poetic;
they just need to be from the heart. A letter doesn’t have to be long or complicated to
make an incredible impact.

Why Write?

For many deployed Service Members, letters are rare or even nonexistent. Imagine
serving thousands of miles away from your family and not receiving a single piece of
mail. A short note from you can change that. Your words remind them that people back
home care, that their sacrifices are noticed, and that they are not forgotten. 
Even if you never hear back, know that your letter matters. Your words may be the
encouragement a Service Member needs to get through a long day

Getting Started

Think of your letter as the beginning of a friendly conversation. Do not overthink it.
Share a little piece of your life and personality. Here are some ideas to get the pen
moving.

  • Introduce yourself – Start with a warm greeting and share a little about yourself. You might mention that you’re a student, parent, pet owner, or anything else you’d like to include. If you have children, consider letting them join in. Service Members love receiving drawings or short notes from kids. 
  • Talk about hobbies and interests – Do you enjoy reading, cooking, hiking, or sports? Sharing these details may reveal common interests that help build a stronger connection.
  • Describe your daily life – Talk about the weather, what your town looks like this time of year, or a funny thing that happened recently. Even simple details, like how your garden is growing, can bring comfort. 
  • Express gratitude and encouragement – Thank them for their service, let them know you’re thinking of them, and remind them that what they do matters. 
  • Add a little extra touch – Consider including a motivational quote, a lighthearted joke, or even a doodle or sticker. Small touches can make the letter feel even more personal.

Things to Avoid

While it’s wonderful to share about yourself and connect, there are a few topics that are best
left out of letters to Service Members. This helps ensure your message lifts their
spirits rather than weighing them down.

  • Avoid politics or controversial subjects – Letters should be a break from heavy topics. 
  • Don’t share personal struggles – It’s natural to want to connect through challenges, but your letter should be a source of encouragement. 
  • Stay away from sensitive questions – Avoid asking where they’re deployed or about missions, since those details are private and can’t always be shared.

Additional Tips

  • Write like you speak – Don’t worry about being formal; a natural tone feels most authentic. 
  • Short and sweet is fine – Even a short card can bring joy. You don’t need to fill the page for your words to matter. 
  • Be consistent if you can – If you enjoy writing, consider doing it regularly. A steady stream of letters is a reminder that someone truly cares.

A Little Effort, A Big Impact

The beauty of letter writing is that it doesn’t take much—just a few minutes, a stamp,
and a piece of paper. Yet for the Service Member on the receiving end, it can mean
everything. Your letter might be the first they’ve received in months. It might be the one
that makes a long day feel lighter, or reminds them of home in a way they desperately
needed. 

At the heart of it, writing to Service Members is about connection, kindness, and
gratitude. It’s about showing someone you’ve never met that they are seen, supported,
and appreciated.

Start writing letters today.

About the Author

Dallas Green served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. She began her journey with Soldiers’ Angels as a SkillBridge Marketing Intern and now continues to support their mission as a Veteran Intern while pursuing her bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University.