Honor A Vet, But Don’t Just Say ‘Thank You’

It’s great to say thanks. There’s nothing wrong with a simple, heartfelt “thank you.” But how about upping your appreciation this year? 

Try having a real conversation.  Engage with a veteran to show you’re really interested in their service and as an individual.   If you feel awkward speaking to a stranger, Cohen Veterans Network suggests three starter questions.  Ask, "What branch did you serve in?"   A good follow-up is, "What was your job while serving?" As US Service members can be deployed all around the globe, ask, “Where have you been stationed?”  

Giving them your full attention shows you appreciate them. That’s a truly meaningful "Thank you."  

The old saying, "Actions speak louder than words," and that is the truth.  Do something. Display a flag, attend a parade or event, or buy a Vet’s meal to show your gratitude.

Why not take time to visit with an older veteran, a neighbor, or a resident at a Veterans Affairs hospital, a Veteran and nursing home, or one served by a local Veterans Service Organization?  Take along snacks, a patriotic pin or cap and plan on using those conversation starters.  

Why not plan an outing?  Many local businesses and attractions offer discounts and free admission to those currently serving in the military, veterans, and Blue Star Families for Veterans Day. Many national chain restaurants, from Applebees to Zaxby’s, offer free meals or deep discounts to the veteran with proof of service. Your local American Legion, VFW, and other veterans’ organizations, as well as churches, Elks lodges, and community nonprofits, also host special breakfasts, lunches and dinners on and around Veterans Day, at which veterans eat for free. Search online listings to see what’s happening in your area, and call ahead to confirm availability.  If a meal is not doable, a drive to see local monuments or attend Veteran's ceremonies can be a rare treat for our oldest veterans.  

Each Summer, from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day, more than 2,000 museums across America will offer free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel, including the National Guard and Reserve, and their families.  The Blue Star Museums program is a collaboration of the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and it includes children's museums, art museums, history and science museums, zoos, and nature centers. You can find participating museums at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

Do you suspect that a vet may be in need?  Many veterans are unaware of all the benefits available to them, and others may think they don’t qualify.  Help connect the veteran with a local Veteran Service Officer to see if they are missing out on entitlements.  

Every state and many veteran-run organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the Vietnam Veterans of America, provide VSOs.  Trained and accredited by the VA to provide assistance to veterans and their families, they will help you write and submit benefits claims at no charge, and they can help you identify benefits available from your state government, too.  They can also help with lost paperwork or modifying discharge status.   

Veterans frequently miss out on lots of money that they are eligible for because they don’t realize that they are eligible.  The applications are complex; they may be missing papers, or they may been denied in the past.  A VSO can help identify benefits, locate missing documents and help complete the request. The National Veterans Foundation can help find one near you! 

Remember the charity three ‘T’ wish list – your time, talent and treasure offer your support to a veterans’ organization.  Cash is always welcome, but if you want to give something tangible, rehousing programs need beds, tables and chairs, appliances, as well as household goods such as dishes, linens and even cleaning supplies.   Business or office wear for a new civilian job or interview is also in demand, especially for women veterans, as are socks and underclothes.  Snacks and toiletries are also appreciated.  Contact your local veterans outreach program for a wish list. 

You’ll also find volunteer opportunities at these programs, from clerical to mentoring, organizing social activities, or becoming a trained hotline worker. Positions can be ongoing or one-time-only event work, depending on your time.      

Don’t know a local veterans service provider?  Cohen Veterans Network suggest the following national organizations if you are looking to donate your time or treasure.     

Volunteer or donate to a veteran service organization:

These are great ways to really thank a vet for their service, not just on November 11, but all through the year.