Texas has launched its annual call for Valentine’s Day cards to honor the state’s veterans, with officials hoping to build on last year’s impressive show of appreciation that saw nearly 38,000 heartfelt messages delivered to former service members.
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, who chairs the Veterans Land Board, is spearheading the 2026 “Valentines for Vets” campaign, encouraging Texans to send cards to residents in the state’s 10 veterans homes.
“We are the land of the free because of the brave. This Valentine’s Day, I encourage Texans to show appreciation for our Veterans by sending cards to our 10 Texas State Veterans Homes,” Buckingham stated in the campaign announcement.
How to Participate
Want to join in? It’s simple. Cards should be postmarked by Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to ensure they arrive in time for Valentine’s Day. Officials emphasize that senders should include “Valentines for Vets” in the mailing address to help with proper delivery to the veterans homes across the state.
The campaign is open to everyone. Schools, workplaces, families, and individuals are all encouraged to participate in what has become a cherished tradition for many Texas veterans. “Each Valentine sent will remind our heroes that their courageous sacrifices will never be forgotten,” Buckingham explained.
Last year’s campaign was a resounding success, with nearly 38,000 cards delivered to veterans across Texas, according to officials.
Texas Veterans Homes
The Valentine’s cards will be distributed among Texas’s 10 State Veterans Homes, which are located in Amarillo, Bonham, Floresville, McAllen, Tyler, Big Spring, El Paso, Houston, Temple, and Fort Worth.
The newest addition to this network is the Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home in Fort Worth, which opened its doors in fall 2025, reports indicate.
Buckingham herself is something of a pioneer. In 2022, she made Texas history by becoming the state’s first female Land Commissioner, a role that includes significant responsibilities for serving Texas veterans through programs like the Valentine’s campaign.
The Valentine’s initiative represents more than just a card exchange — it’s about connecting generations and acknowledging service. For many veterans, especially those who may not have frequent visitors, these handmade cards and messages of appreciation provide a meaningful boost during the holiday.
“To ensure on time delivery, cards should be postmarked by Tuesday, February 10, 2026 and include ‘Valentines for Vets’ in the mailing address,” the Land Commissioner advised.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the campaign offers Texans a simple yet powerful way to say “thank you” to those who served — one heartfelt message at a time.
