Celebrating 20 Years
Turn for Troops is a national initiative started by Woodcraft in 2004 to bolster the spirit of active duty and rehabilitating United States military service members. Woodcraft stores across the country host turning events (typically over Veterans Day weekend) to assist volunteers in handcrafting wooden writing pens, which are then sent to the troops with personal notes from the turners.
Turned Pens for Troops
The gift of a unique wooden pen sends a message of appreciation, love, and support to both active duty service members and those in hospitals or rehabilitation centers. Turned pens are packaged and sent around the globe, with cards and information about how the pens were made.
Woodcraft has several contacts to assist in distribution of turned pens. Soldiers or family members can request pens by contacting your local Woodcraft store. If you do not have a local store, please send a message to the contact information provided below.
Who Can Turn a Pen?
Simply put, anyone can turn a pen during the Turn for Troops event. Many Woodcraft employees take part, and if someone is willing to volunteer their time, they can take part. Children can volunteer as well, but must be accompanied by an adult.
There is NO experience necessary to volunteer. Our staff, or local woodturning experts, are willing to assist you in the process of turning a pen.
There is also NO cost involved. Donate your time, and Woodcraft will provide all tools, supplies, equipment, and safety gear you will need.
How Many Pens Are Turned?
The number of pens turned each year varies. In the 2023 Turn for Troops event, 13,692 pens were produced.
Since the start of the Turn for Troops program, in 2004, the total number of pens produced and sent to U.S. service members is more than 250,000.
