Incirlik Airmen send heart-warming messages Published July 13, 2015 By Senior Airman Michael Battles 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- The Company Grade Officers' Council in conjunction with the TOP 3 and FE2 program, held Incirlik Air Base's first-ever Letters to Loved Ones event June 18, 2015, here. The event provided Airmen stationed at Incirlik an opportunity to choose from a selection of more than 400 handmade cards to send to family and friends in the U.S. free of charge. "The event was important because it allowed individuals an opportunity to express their thoughts, thanks, love, in a way that almost seems archaic," said Master Sgt. Jason Chiasson, 39th Communications Squadron, commander's programs section chief. "In the digital age when everyone uses some form of electronic device to communicate, a card with personal sentiments speaks on a different level to the person receiving it. This was a great mechanism for individuals to enhance relationships." Provided by Operation Write Home, a non-profit organization with a mission of "Helping heroes keep in touch with home," each card is handmade by volunteers and distributed to installations across the globe. Since 2007, OWH has provided more than three-million cards to service members serving overseas. According to Capt. Jordan Tribble, 39th Air Base Wing sexual assault response coordinator, the event provided Incirlik's population a way to meaningfully connect with their loved ones. "Email and social media may be the preferred method of connecting with others, but receiving a hand written letter is much more meaningful to me," Tribble said. Furthermore, Tribble stated that events like these are important for the morale and well-being of Incirlik's Airmen. "Events such as this are very important because they foster active communication which in turn boosts morale for both the service member and those back home," said Tribble. "Maintaining an emotional connection with family and those we care for during a tour with separation is crucial." Future Letters to Loved Ones events are currently being scheduled at Incirlik.