For example, I ordered a big supply of greeting cards that read, “The Officers and Crew of the USS Benfold Wish You a Happy Birthday.” Each month my ship’s office gave me a birthday list of my sailors’ spouses. I would write, say, “Dear Marie” at the top and sign it “Love, Mike.” Every card included my P.S. saying, “Your husband or wife is doing a great job,” even if he or she were not. I knew the cards worked because sailors often came by to express their appreciation. It was my way of bringing their families into our orbit.
