A small act, a big impact: Group pens letters to deployed troops

There’s power in a handwritten letter, especially one that contains an expression of appreciation.

Some residents and team members at Traditions of Hanover wanted to help boost the morale of service members, with their messages of gratitude and hope. The group took time to write letters to deployed U.S. troops, with help from Army Vietnam veteran Joseph Piotti, who is also a server at the community.

“While I was stationed overseas, I received letters from family and relatives, which meant a lot,” he said. “Seeing the residents and staff write these letters to the troops uplifts my spirits. It’s a great reminder to the troops that what they are there for is worth it.”

Piotti shared his military experiences and offered advice on what to include in the letters. He encouraged everyone to express their gratitude, but also to share current events or anything that would keep them connected to what is happening back at home.

Marketing Associate Spencer Gross said, “Hearing about Joe’s experience and his advice on what to include in the letters, allowed me to write a more meaningful letter, knowing more of what the troops want to hear and how they’ll feel when they receive it.”

Their collaborated efforts turned into 30 letters, which will be split between two organizations, Support Our Troops and Operation Gratitude.