Do you know a veteran or want to get to know one better? This Veterans Day, consider participating in the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, which honors veterans by collecting and archiving their stories. The project welcomes recorded interviews, as well as materials such as letters, photos and diaries from veterans of all U.S. conflicts. You can collect a history easily using the project’s field kit, and once submitted, it will be uploaded to a Library of Congress database and committed to posterity.
Tag: thank a veteran
Giving Back on Veterans Day
Hundreds of businesses nationwide donate to veterans’ charities in the run-up to Veterans Day, according to Military Benefits, including Dunkin’ Donuts, Outback Steakhouse and Regal Cinemas. But year-round, proceeds from donations of used clothing and household goods made to ClothingDonations.org help honor and benefit thousands of veterans throughout the country. Schedule a pickup today and remember to go to a local parade this weekend to honor those who have served.
Kids Can Help Celebrate Veterans Day
Veterans Day is Saturday, Nov. 11, and schoolchildren can honor veterans as they learn through a variety of activities, says Kids Thank a Veteran. Ask kids to write a letter to a veteran of Vietnam or another conflict, or invite a veteran to speak about their service at a school or event. Assemble a care package for a current service member, or plan a field trip to a VA nursing home or hospital, the site suggests; active troops and aging veterans alike will appreciate the consideration.
Observing the Anniversary of 9/11
On the 16th anniversary of 9/11, the Vietnam Veterans Association (VVA) encourages readers of its blog to remember the 2,996 people who perished in the devastating terrorist attacks against the United States that day, as well as the sacrifices made by more than 2.5 million U.S. personnel who have served in the global war on terror since. Show them and the rest of the nation’s veterans that you care today by offering a meaningful thank-you for their service, and donate some of your time, money or expertise to a veteran or veterans group.
Help Vets Enjoy the Parade
Make saluting those who have served part of your Independence Day routine by cheering on the local veterans who are marching in today’s parades and other observances. And when the color guard starts the parade today, adds the Magnolia School of Etiquette, show your respect for the flag by placing your hand over your heart or saluting as it passes. “Every veteran on that parade route is watching,” the blog says. VVA wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July!