Veterans Day, celebrated each year on Nov. 11, is a chance to honor those who’ve served our country. Not to be confused with Memorial Day, when we remember those who’ve died in service, Veterans Day is all about acknowledging and thanking our military members, both past and present, for their courage and sacrifices. In addition to Bar B Qing with friends, Here are 12 ways you can make this holiday more meaningful.
Attend a Veterans Day Parade
One way to show support to veterans is by showing up at your local community Veterans Day parade.
Visit Memorials and Museums
Throughout the nation there are many memorials and museums commemorating the sacrifices, courage and history of our military men and women.
Send Care Packages
Show deployed troops your support by sending them care packages abroad.
Reach Out to Veterans In Your Family and Community
While thanking a vet is great, listening to them share their stories is even better.
Volunteer or Donate to Military Support Organizations
Volunteering for or donating to organizations that help veterans, active duty military and their families
Teach Your Grandchildren About the Military
Honoring the men and women who’ve served our country begins by teaching our kids about the military, including the history of our armed forces
Place Flags on Veterans’ Graves
Cemeteries may be spooky for some people, but for others, they’re an important reminder of the people we’ve lost
Read a Book About Military History
Learning about the past is an important way to understand the future.
Watch a Historical War Film
Movies can be entertaining and educational, making them a great way to learn about the history of our nation.
Have a Moment of Silence
For a century, it’s been tradition to take a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate the anniversary of the end of World War I in 1918.
Pay the Tab for a Vet
You don’t have to wait for Veterans Day to do something meaningful for vets. Whenever you’re out to eat, pay attention to the customers around you. Is there a veteran in the same line or seated at a table nearby? Use the opportunity to pick up their tab. You can even do so anonymously.
Make Your Porch Light Green
For just a few dollars you can do something this Veterans Day to show your support to vets and all it takes is changing a bulb. By swapping out your regular porch light with a green lightbulb, you’re participating in a nationwide movement known as Greenlight a Vet, which lets veterans in your area know you acknowledge and honor their service and sacrifices.