Dear Friends,
Since 2001, the "S.A.N.T.A. Mail" (Sending A Nation's Tribute Abroad) project has provided over 12,000 greetings to the brave men and women who are on duty protecting our freedom. I am again asking for your participation in project that will send messages of Christmas cheer, encouragement and support to members of the United States Military.
What is S.A.N.T.A. Mail?
S.A.N.T.A. (Sending A Nation's Tribute Abroad) Mail is a community effort to send holiday greetings and messages of encouragement to members of the United States military.
What should I send, and how do I address my greeting?
Christmas cards, letters, prayers, poems, crayon drawings or small paper craft projects are all appropriate. They can be addressed as simply as "Dear United States Service Member." Items will be inspected before distribution and I have been asked not to accept sealed envelopes. Please feel free to include your return address as the service person receiving your message may want to thank you personally for your kindness, but do not be disappointed if you do not receive return correspondence. Greetings are distributed to personnel at all levels of service and yours may reach a soldier or sailor who will be unable to reply due to the demands of their present duties.
Who receives the greetings?
S.A.N.T.A. Mail is distributed to active duty military personnel serving overseas and stateside. On December 8, the first boxes will be sent overseas for distribution to men and women on duty in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf region. On December 15, a final shipment of letters will be sent to those on duty protecting our Atlantic and Pacific Coasts on Christmas Day.
Where do I take my cards and letters?
Drop-off sites are available throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. Please email editor@navysisters.com for the location nearest you.
In closing, I would like to share an excerpt from a letter of gratitude received from a US Navy Lt Commander: "When I reported for duty Christmas morning at 5:00am, I was greeted by a box of wonderful cards. Please pass my thanks to those who participated in your support program. It is difficult to be away from family and friends on Christmas, but the joy the cards brought made a special holiday more enjoyable. Thank you again for the support."
I am very proud to be part of a community that has shown such compassion and concern for the men and women of the United States military services. May your find the blessing in each challenge the New Year brings, and may the joy and peace of Christmas be with you today and always.
Sincerely, The NavySisters |
