Keeping in touch

Military service is an honorable thing but those who serve often do so far away from friends and family. Troop morale is an important factor in how well a military unit functions and mail from home is a big part of morale.

Several organizations have come into being specifically to address the issue and help get people writing to those serving our nation. Operation Dear Abby has been around for over 30 years but concerns about regular mail delivery have prompted the military to suspend the letter-writing campaign although there is a Web site, http://anyservicemem-ber.navy.mil/, where a message can be sent, but not to a particular service member.

Operation Military Pride is an organization that helps send mail and care packages to the troops among other morale raising activities. On its Web site O.M.P. states that it is one of the few organizations that put people directly into contact with military personnel serving overseas. The message on the site states that troops in Iraq request baby wipes, junk food, gum, foot powder, gel insoles, magazines and books most often but anything is appreciated.

Another way to directly contact service members is eMailOurMilitary. The Web site states it is a safe way for people to continue the tradition of "Any Service Member" mail with a more personal touch.

Another way to support the troops is to sign an online thank you card such as the one on the Defend America Web site. These online cards usually let you put your name and hometown in but don't have a place for a thought or sentiment.