How to Write to U.S. Soldiers

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:WriteSoldiers

Story Highlights

Introduction Loneliness and a feeling of being disconnected from home is common among U.S. soldiers

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Introduction

Loneliness and a feeling of being disconnected from home is common among U.S. soldiers who have been deployed. In order to ease the pain of separation, many individuals choose to correspond with the soldiers, even if they are not family members. There are guidelines that must be followed in order for your letter to reach the intended soldier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Write to a U.S. Solider

Steps

1

Step One

Address your envelope with the soldier's name on the first line. If you know the rank, it is acceptable to include it, but it is not required.
2

Step Two

Make the second line the name of the organization. It may not be necessary, but it is better to include it if you know it.
3

Step Three

Use your soldier's unit number (a four-digit number) on all correspondence, if one has been provided to you. You must use this number on line three of the address. If your soldier did not give you one, then you most likely don't need it.
4

Step Four

Put the APO address on line four. This includes the identifying prefix (09 for New York, 96 for San Francisco and 34 for Miami) plus the remaining APO zipcode. Some locations require the additional four-digit add-on.
5

Step Five

Locate a soldier pen pal through one of the many online services where soldiers who desire to write letters can post their information.
6

Step Six

Collect name and address information from your workplace, church, friends and family members to write to soldiers. This is a way for the soldier to hear from someone who is familiar with things from home.
7

Step Seven

Send an email to a soldier. Many soldiers have access to email and are able to write frequently. If you don't have the email address of a particular soldier, try one of the online websites on campdoha.org (see Resources below).
8

Step Eight

Send troops a message of support using the America Supports You website (see Resources below). This is an opportunity to write troops in locations around the world.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • The Department of Defense has suspended the option to use "Any Soldier" mail. The only way to write a specific soldier or airman on active duty is to use the recommended address format.
  • Stay ahead of holiday mail by sending your mail or packages early.
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