There are a lot of ways to celebrate Veterans Day, but with COVID-19 being a risk to so many elders, you should probably do so at a comfortable distance. Some cities will still hold Veterans Day parades on Nov. 11 if you wish to don a mask and attend in person, according to Military.com; or you can live-stream the New York Veterans Parade and other virtual events from your laptop or smartphone. Either way, you can celebrate the men and women who sacrificed to keep the country free and safe. #ThankAVeteran
Tag: thank a veteran
Thank a Veteran for the Three-Day Weekend
Lots of people get Veterans Day off, making 2019’s observance into a three-day weekend. You can use some of that extra time to visit a retired veteran in a retirement home, or write a letter to a current service member. You can volunteer to help a veteran neighbor with their fall yardwork (as this blogger plans to do), or weed out some of your old, unused clothing and household items and donate them to ClothingDonations.org, simultaneously helping fund veterans programs around the country while streamlining your space. However you choose to observe the holiday, the nation’s veterans appreciate your support!
Discounts Thank Veterans for Their Service
One way businesses salute the nation’s veterans and current service members is to offer them special discounts on Veterans Day. Chains such as Baker’s Square, Red Robin and California Pizza Kitchen offer a free meal with proof of service, while retailers such as Walgreen’s, Dollar General, Target and Publix will offer percent-off and other deals over the long weekend. What’s more, the national parks will waive admission for everyone this Veterans Day — and give disabled veterans free Lifetime Access Passes in gratitude for their service.
The Best Ways to Observe Veterans Day
Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11, and there are as many ways to celebrate those who served as there are veterans — and there are almost 18 million living in the U.S. To honor their service, Military.com suggests, host a special luncheon, recognize veterans in a company newsletter, share their stories, and honor family members who made sacrifices in support. Another great way to show your appreciation? Help out a local veteran service organization (VSO) by volunteering, donating and/or building awareness on veterans’ behalf. Local chapters of the Vietnam Veterans of America can help you get started!
Celebrities Who Served Their Country
The U.S. Census says there are about 18.8 million veterans nationwide, and about half are now over the age of 65. Many people served long before they were famous, Military.com says, including Johnny Cash, George Carlin, Steve McQueen and Morgan Freeman. Some of the most most famous Vietnam veterans are Colin Powell, Oliver Stone, Dennis Franz, Al Gore, Pat Sajak, Roger Staubach, John Kerry, Jesse “The Body” Ventura and of course, John McCain. Take a moment of silence to recognize all veterans — famous or not — on the nation’s 99th Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2018.