A lot can hinge on a promptly sent thank-you note.

By Kimberly Seville

They sure know how to make me feel good about that donation I sent. And no, I don’t mind at all when this thank-you letter then asks if I can find it in my heart to make an additional contribution to send a message to the brave men and women the USO serves — “that Americans back home are still behind them and that we honor and appreciate the sacrifices they’re making for us.”