Saying Thanks to Our Military

Regardless of your beliefs or political stance on war, or more specifically, the conflicts in which the U.S. is currently involved; the truth remains that there are many men and women who are serving their country and are away from loved ones, friends and all things that we define as "home." Another hubber posted a forum with a link to a wonderfully easy way to thank these folks for giving up much more than creature comforts. It made me start to wonder what other organizations were sponsoring endeavours that could bring some comfort to those abroad during this holiday season, or any time.

Please take some time out from your day with your family and friends to review the sites listed below and maybe send a little smile the way of someone who isn't lucky enough to have a loved one nearby.

www.Letssaythanks.com is an amazingly easy way to share a bit of gratitude with a soldier abroad. The site is sponsored by Xerox, and features a number of cards designed by youth across America. You simply choose a design, pick a pre-written message to go inside and, if you wish, include your name and hometown. The card will be sent to a randomly chosen, deserving member of the armed forces (and aren't they all?). This is the site that was originally posted in the forum that inspired this hub. Visit daily, during your morning facebook, email, myspace and hubpages.com check, and see how many cards you can send!

The USO has been helping to aid and cheer our troops for decades. They've gone cyber now, and are a tried, true and trusted way that you can support the men and women overseas. They accept monetary donations, via mail and online.   Visit them at: https://www.uso.org/donate/custom.aspx?id=1401

Another very easy option is the Easter Seals foundation located online at http://www.easterseals.com/site/Ecard?ecard_id=1861&s_src=Google+AdWords&s_subsrc=military_ecard&gclid=CP6AhPSuyp4CFVw55QodUi_Nrw

A couple of clicks, and your e-card is on its way.

Operation Gratitude is a non-profit organization that sends care packages to the troops. The packages contain food, personal hygiene items, handmade crafts and other goods that might bring a smile to a soldier's face. Their website outlines many ways in which you can help, from donations, to drives, to actually crafting some of the items yourself.  This means of showing thanks can be as simple as a few clicks for a monetary donation, or as involved as organizing event in your community.  The level of commitment is up to you, but the goodwill generated is universal.

http://www.opgratitude.com/index.php

 I encourage you to visit the sites listed above, and also research some of your own.  If you find another great site, mention it in the comments below.  This season, lets make an early resolution to make it as easy as possible for everyone to give a little something back to those willing to give their lives for us.  Please take a look at the links below for even more helpful information.  Thank You.