Pen Pal TreeRooted in Kindness
FREE PRINTABLES · VETERANS DAY · NOVEMBER 11

Thank a veteran with a letter

Pick a ready-made letter, make it your own, print it and sign it. Or print decorated paper and write your own. It's all free.

1. Choose a ready-made letter

Every letter is complete — you can print and sign it as is. If you're printing for a group, mix the versions so a community doesn't receive many identical letters.

Thank You for Your Service

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for your service to our country. I may not know your story, but I know that you gave something important so that people like me could live in freedom.

I hope this letter brings a smile to your day and reminds you that you are appreciated — not just on Veterans Day, but every day.

Wishing you comfort, good company and many happy moments.

With gratitude,

 

Sent with kindness through penpaltree.org

2. Decorated paper — write your own

Print the page and write your letter by hand. It prints well in black and white.

Thank You for Your Service

Dear Veteran,

With gratitude,

Sent with kindness through penpaltree.org

3. For activity directors: a sheet residents can write on

Print one for each resident for a letter-writing group, replies to cards you received, or thank-yous to volunteers. Extra-wide lines and big print make it easier for shaky hands and low vision. The gentle prompts help residents who need a starting point, including people living with dementia.

Greeting:

Dear Friend,

When I was young, I loved…

Something that always makes me smile is…

A piece of advice I'd like to share is…

Your friend,

Sent with kindness through penpaltree.org

Printed your letter? Join free so it counts. (optional)

  • After you mail it, tap "I sent a card here" on the community's page — your letter counts on the map, so your state or country is represented.
  • Keep a record of every card and letter you've sent.
  • Hear when a community near you posts a request, like a Veterans Day or holiday card drive.
  • When a community that has joined Pen Pal Tree marks its cards received, you'll get a note.
Join freeMaybe later — printing is always free, no account needed.

Ready to send it?

Find a care home or nursing home near you, write "To a Veteran Resident" on the envelope, and add "Attn: Activities Department." Then tap "I sent a card here" so your letter counts.