Say Thanks to a Soldier

Thousands of men and women serving in the armed forces will be receiving some extra cheer during this holiday season, thanks to millions of people across the U.S. who have participated in Xerox's "Let's Say Thanks" postcard program.

"Let's Say Thanks" - a free Web site launched June 26 at www.LetsSayThanks.com - helps people express their gratitude to troops serving overseas through a personalized postcard. People can choose a postcard designed by children from across the U.S., choose a message or write their own, and Xerox takes care of the rest.

The card is printed on a Xerox iGen3 Digital Production Press and shipped to nonprofit organization Give2theTroops®, which then includes the cards in care packages they send overseas.

By early November 2006, 5 million people from all 50 U.S. states have logged on to the site to personalize colorful postcards of thanks -- everyday Americans, military families and even celebrities such as Whoopi Goldberg and American Idol Ace Young. On average, people are selecting and personalizing about 40,000 cards a day, helping to ensure that thousands of military men and women keep on hearing how much their service is appreciated.

After receiving a care package with postcards from Let's Say Thanks, U.S. Army Corporal Larry Kessler sent a letter of thanks back. He wrote: "Every time a letter or package comes in, it seems like Christmas. You don't know what you are getting, but you are always touched by the kindness of others."

Another soldier, Specialist Tommy Brooks from the 2-130 Illinois Infantry Battalion, knows firsthand about the importance of mail. He says that every night during mail call, soldiers gather around with the hopes they'll receive something from home.

Brooks, who is now home after a 12-month tour in Iraq, said a letter has a sense of warmth and is more personal than e-mail. "With regular mail, it's all yours to keep and take with you when you're on the move," he explained.

So visit the website,select a postcard, write a message and have it sent to a US soldier overseas. Examples of messages are at the website.

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