Soldiers in Basic Combat Training will have mail call every day that the US Postal Service delivers mail. We encourage you to send uplifting cards and letters to Soldiers in training.
Patiently wait for a message. The first thing you should know is that once someone leaves for basic training, they do not actually begin training until about a week or two later. This is because they first go to what’s call Basic Training Reception. Here they will get in-processed and sent to their BCT unit. During this time, some soldiers get a chance to call, and even write their families a letter. However, since they are not yet in their basic training unit, they cannot give you a return address. Usually, you should give it about a month after they leave for BCT to begin expecting a letter. After that, letters should be received more frequently.
My Soldier's Mailing Address. Once you receive your first basic training letter, you will have your soldier’s unit address (See below).
What can I not send to my soldier? Soldiers are not allowed to receive any packages containing food, candy, pornographic material or any other contraband. Near the end of basic training, drill sergeants may be more inclined to allow soldiers to receive food, but you should wait until you receive confirmation on this from your soldier.

Fort Jackson Mailing Address

PVT Last Name, First Name

# PLT. (COMPANY) CO, #-## IN BN, ### IN BDE

STREET ADDRESS

Fort Jackson, SC 29207-####

Fort Benning Mailing Address

Rank Last name, First name

Roster Number X Co., X-XX Inf. Regt.

Street address

Fort Benning, GA 31905-####

Fort Knox Mailing Address

Rank Last name, First name

# PLT (Company) Co X/XXth INF REGT

## Rhineland Street

Fort Knox, KY 40121-####

Fort Leonard Wood Mailing Address

Rank Last name, First name

X Company, 1/## IN BN Platoon (#)

495 Iowa Avenue, Unit #

Fort Leonard Wood, MO 65473-####

Fort Sill Mailing Address

Rank Last Name, First Name

X Battery, 1-X FA Battalion # PLT

#### Street Address

Fort Sill, OK 73503-####

Best Practices & Ideas

Number your letters -since delivery can be delayed we recommend you number your letters (both on the envelope and letter) - this will allow your recruit to read the letters in order.
Write frequently - the number one inspiration and morale booster is receiving mail from loved ones. Encourage your family & friends to write a short letter or postcard to your recruit.Hand written vs. an app - Although electronic mailing apps can be convenient handwritten letters are always more meaningful to your recruit. We recommend you use various forms of letter creation based on the purpose of the message. Handwritten is best for 'heart-felt' content, where a postcard or electronic letter is best for quick motivational messages or scriptures.
Receiving Mail - Don't be disappointed if letters from your recruit are few and far between. Your loved one is very busy and maybe overwhelmed, especially within the first few weeks. The most important thing is to keep writing.
Sending stamps & envelopes - You may include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a few sheets of paper. Print out some pre-printed address labels with those of your family and a few friends so they can place it on the envelope. Please send them to basic with a roll of stamps and stack of envelopes.)
Pictures - Photos may be reviewed by the command to ensure that they in good taste, i.e., no nudity, no pornography, no gang signs, no alcohol or drug-related, or profanity. We suggest that you send copies instead of original to avoid heartache should the photo get misplaced or damaged. Space is minimal, so keep the letters to a regular standard size.
Phone cards - Trainees are allowed to have a phone card. It's best to send it with them prior to leaving for bootcamp, but you can include a card with one of your letters.

ARMY MAIL

Letters may be delayed based on quarantine and USPS delivery time. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear from your receruit consistently - they are ok.

Send a post card.

Best Practices & Ideas