How to Send Christmas Cards to Soldiers: A Guide
Sending Christmas cards to soldiers is a thoughtful and meaningful way to show appreciation for their service and sacrifices. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to forget about our troops who are serving abroad. However, taking the time to send a personalized Christmas card can bring a smile to their face and a sense of home to their hearts.
Who Can Receive Christmas Cards from Soldiers?
Soldiers serving in the military, including:
- Active-duty personnel
- Reserve personnel
- National Guard members
- Veterans
How to Send Christmas Cards to Soldiers
- Choose a Military-Approved Address
- Use the following formats to address your card:
- General Delivery: "Soldier’s Name, Unit #, APO #, City, State, ZIP" (e.g., John Doe, 1234, APO AE 91234,APO)
- Direct Mail: "Soldier’s Name, Unit #, PO Box #, City, State, ZIP" (e.g., Jane Smith, 4567, PO Box 12345, Fort Campbell, KY 42223)
- Make sure to check with the soldier’s command or unit for any specific address requirements
- Use the following formats to address your card:
- Select a Card or Message
- Choose a card that is short and sweet, as space is limited
- Consider adding a personalized message or a funny joke to brighten their day
- Keep it clean and respectful, as soldiers come from diverse backgrounds and cultures
- Add a Little Extra Love
- Include a small memento or holiday treat, such as a photo, a piece of candy, or a handmade ornament
- Write a heartfelt message, expressing your gratitude and support for their service
- Mail Your Card
- Allow extra time for delivery, as mail can take several weeks to arrive
- Use a trackable shipping method, such as USPS or UPS, to ensure your card arrives safely
Where to Send Christmas Cards to Soldiers
- Military Mail Centers: Visit a local post office or a military mail center to find the nearest location
- USO Centers: Many USO (United Service Organizations) centers have mailboxes where you can send cards to soldiers
- Online Services: Consider using online services, such as Operation Shoebox or Send a Soldier a Card, to make it easier to send cards to soldiers
Tips and Considerations
- Check the soldier’s status before sending a card, to ensure they are still stationed at the same location
- Be respectful of the soldier’s time and privacy, and avoid sending sensitive or personal information
- Keep the card simple and straightforward, as soldiers may have limited time to read or respond
- Consider sending a card to a soldier who is deployed**, as they may be far from home and could use a reminder of the holiday season
Resources and Organizations
- Operation Shoebox: A non-profit organization that collects and sends care packages, including Christmas cards, to troops serving abroad
- Send a Soldier a Card: A website that allows you to send a personalized Christmas card to soldiers
- USO: The United Service Organizations, which provides support and services to troops and their families
Conclusion
Sending Christmas cards to soldiers is a thoughtful and meaningful way to show appreciation for their service and sacrifices. By following these simple steps and tips, you can bring a smile to a soldier’s face and a sense of home to their hearts. Remember to choose a military-approved address, select a card or message that is short and sweet, add a little extra love, and mail your card with a trackable shipping method. Happy holidays to our troops!
