People often say “thank you for your service,” but many don’t realize that encouragement, appreciation, and gratitude aren’t the same thing. Each one offers something different—and when we understand the difference, our words carry more weight.

Encouragement

Encouragement tells a service member, “Keep going—you matter more than you know.” It uplifts them during long deployments, tough training, and silent sacrifices. It reminds them their strength isn’t just seen—it’s believed in.

Appreciation 

Appreciation means seeing the dedication behind the uniform. It says, “We notice your early mornings, your missed holidays, and your unwavering discipline.” It’s about recognizing not just the role, but the relentless effort it takes.

Gratitude

Gratitude expresses, “What you’ve given has changed lives—even if you don’t see it.” It’s a deep, emotional thank you for their sacrifices, risks, and service. It carries weight because it’s not about duty—it’s about the human cost.

When we take the time to offer real acknowledgment and genuine thanks, it helps veterans and service members feel seen—not just for their role, but for the sacrifices they’ve made behind it.

A Message to Everyone in Uniform

Dear Hero: Katie’s Message of Thanks

Thank You for Everything: A Letter from Katie

Straight ‘A’ Thanks from a 4th Grader

A Freshman’s Salute to Service

Following these guidelines saves us 5 hours each day and helps us get more letters where they need to go, faster.

Please:

• write legibly
• address your letters generically (e.g. “Dear Service Member” or “Dear Veteran”).
• include about 5-7 sentences of meaningful content
• no religious or political references
• fill up the space you have. (Big paper will need more content or larger handwriting and artwork so the letter looks nice and full.)

Please do not:

• write to a specific individual.

• use or send individual envelopes

• purchase greeting cards, thank you cards, blanks cards or cards of any kind
• type or computer print your cards or letters

• include contact information such as email, home address or phone number.

• use glitter, confetti, or anything not securely attached.
• send food or care package items.
• date your letter

Thank you for helping us by following these guidelines. It saves valuable time, keeps our process running smoothly, and helps us reach more service members. We truly appreciate your support!

Before mailing your letters, please follow these final packing instructions to help us keep the process efficient:

How to Pack Your Letters

1. If you put cards or letters in individual envelopes please remove them before shipping.
2. If you put your letters in ziplock bags, please remove them before shipping.
3. If you folded your letters, please unfold them so they can be shipped flat.
4. Sort everything by size: Full-sheet letters should be stacked flat. Folded cards should be sorted by or size or by half-fold and quarter-fold.
5. Bundle your stacks with rubber bands to prevent damage during shipping.
6. Write your contact info on the label you received in your confirmation email.
7. Put everything together in one large envelope or box to ship as a single parcel.

We receive thousands of letters each week, so following these instructions helps us screen and process everything as quickly and efficiently as possible.

We’re so grateful for every letter we receive—each one makes a real impact on the morale and mental well-being of those who serve.

But behind every bundle is a team working to screen, sort, bundle, and ship thousands of handwritten messages. We don’t receive grants or government funding—donations are our only source of revenue.

Even a small financial contribution helps offset labor and postage costs so we can continue this work sustainably.

A DONATION of $1 per letter goes a long way and is truly appreciated.