Support Our Troops

America's servicemembers, especially those deployed overseas, welcome expressions of support—and you can make a difference.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has asked that members of the public refrain from sending mail to "Any Servicemember" as well as from distributing soldiers names and addresses without the permission of the soldier. DoD has expressed concern that harmful items may be shipped through the mail and that unsolicited mail will delay delivery of mail from family and friends. DoD suggests that those interested in showing support for the troops review the possible programs listed at http://www.ourmilitary.mil.

The Army and Air Force Exchange Service website http://www.shopmyexhcange.com provides the opportunity to purchase phone cards and gifts for our service members serving in Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn and around the world. Send a free personalized postcard to a US servicemember serving overseas, to show your appreciation for their service to our country by visiting http://www.letssaythanks.com.

Another way to show support is helping deployed troops bring humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan and Iraq by visiting http://www.beyondorders.org, an online network connecting US servicemembers and American donors to help Iraqi people obtain some everyday items that are difficult to come by.

While the Women's Memorial Foundation does not endorse any of these sites specifically, we know servicemembers value and appreciate gestures of support. DoD also suggests citizens visit veterans' hospitals and nursing homes, participate in events honoring veterans and reach out to military families, especially those with a loved one overseas. So, take a moment out of your busy day and show your support for our troops–every effort makes a difference.