Veterans Day, observed every year on November 11, holds great significance as we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Throughout history, countless individuals have answered the call to serve their country. They leave their families and loved ones behind, risking their lives to protect the freedoms we hold dear. These brave men and women come from all walks of life, representing the diversity and strength of our nation.
It is also important to remember that being a veteran does not end after their time in the military. Many continue to serve their communities through various organizations and charities, using their knowledge and experience to impact society positively.
If you want to pay tribute to a veteran or make a meaningful contribution to veterans everywhere, here are a few ways to get started.
Celebrate Veterans with the Gift of Companionship
Our companions love making a difference in the lives of veterans by offering friendly company, companionship, and emotional support whenever it’s needed. They genuinely want to help brighten each day and provide comfort to those who have served our country.
Along with providing companionship, we are also happy to assist with light household tasks, organizing, meal preparation, pet care, or providing transportation for errands, trips to the store, appointments, or just a leisurely drive around town.
Show Your Appreciation by Being Present
Celebrate Veterans Day by attending a meaningful event in your area. Not just a casual picnic but a genuine parade or service dedicated to honoring veterans. As Bob Hope famously said, “My heroes are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place.”
Take advantage of the opportunity to show your gratitude! To find Veterans Day events in your area, check local community websites and newspapers or contact your nearest veterans’ organizations.
Fly a Flag with Proper Etiquette
On Veterans Day, seize the chance to fly the flag proudly! But remember to follow the proper rules for display. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Hoist the flag high and make sure it is in good condition.
- The union (blue field with stars) should always be on the top left when viewing the flag.
- The union should also be on the top left when displaying the flag vertically.
- Ensure the flag is well-illuminated during nighttime display.
- Never let the flag touch the ground or any other objects.
- Respectfully retire the worn-out flag when it becomes tattered.
Support Charities Focused on Veterans
Numerous exceptional organizations provide support, services, and appreciation for our service members. If you’re seeking ideas for veteran donations, consider checking out notable charities like the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans, and Fisher House Foundation. They have made a significant impact on the lives of wounded veterans.
Write a Letter to Say “Thank You”
On Veterans Day, please take a moment to show your appreciation for the veterans who have served our country. Here are some prompts to help you write a simple letter, postcard, or email:
- Start by expressing your gratitude: Thank you for your service.
- Share a personal story or memory related to veterans or military service.
- Express admiration for their bravery and sacrifice.
- Acknowledge the importance of their service in protecting our freedom.
- Offer words of encouragement and support.
- End with a heartfelt closing and sign your name.
If you don’t know a veteran personally, consider sending your message to the nearest military installation. Remember, even small acts of recognition can make a difference.
Soldiers’ Angels, a nonprofit organization that supports the military, mobilizes volunteers to write letters to deployed troops, veterans, and their caregivers through their Letter Writing Virtual Team.
Ask Someone About Their Service
We all know someone who has served. Veterans Day is a perfect opportunity to ask them about their service. Here are a few questions to help you get started:
- What branch of the military did you serve in?
- How long did you serve?
- Where were you stationed?
- What was your role or specialty?
- What are some memorable experiences from your time in service?
Learning more about their service can provide valuable insight and allow you to express your gratitude appropriately.
Avoid asking if they have taken lives, and if your veteran is a combat veteran who is unwilling to share or openly discuss their experiences, offer support without prying. Sometimes, you don’t need to say anything; listen and give them your undivided attention.
Explore the Outdoors with a Veteran
On Veterans Day, extend an invitation to a veteran or a military family to experience the wonders of nature. Admission is free for all visitors at national parks, but there are also plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy.
Whether hiking through scenic trails, picnicking in a local park, exploring botanical gardens, or simply taking a peaceful stroll along a river, spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits. Embrace nature’s beauty, improve physical and mental health, and create cherished memories with a veteran on this special day.
Visit a Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospital
Discover the policies for patient interaction or volunteering at your nearest VA hospital. Spend the day with a veteran and show your gratitude. Many VA facilities organize events on Veterans Day or prepare a special lunch, which you can assist with.
Even if you don’t directly interact with a veteran, helping at a facility is a meaningful way to give back. Find a VA hospital near you by visiting the official VA website or contacting your local Veterans Affairs office.
Don’t Mix Up Veterans Day and Memorial Day
Veterans Day and Memorial Day are significant observances that honor different aspects of military service. Veterans Day is a time to express gratitude and appreciation to all who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces, including those still with us. It is a day to recognize their sacrifices, bravery, and dedication to protecting our nation.
On the other hand, Memorial Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering and honoring the brave men and women who lost their lives while serving their country.
By recognizing and respecting the distinctions, we can fully appreciate the importance of both Veterans Day and Memorial Day in honoring our military heroes.
More than Just a Day on the Calendar
Veterans Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to express our profound gratitude to those who have served and protected our nation. Engaging in activities directly impacting veterans or simply spending time with them can create meaningful experiences and express our admiration.
Let us recognize and honor their sacrifices on Veterans Day and every day.
The Villi Team is Here to Help
Do you need help with a loved one? Then consider Villi’s homemaker and companionship services. Our team of friendly, compassionate Companions takes great pride in serving people in their own community who need light assistance with daily chores, some company and conversation, or convenient transportation for errands, appointments, or trips to the store.
Explore Our Services to Learn More About:
- Homemaker and companionship services
- Easy-to-use scheduling platform
- “Best Value” service pricing
- Only 1-hour service minimum
Sign up in seconds to enjoy free 24-hour access to our on-demand scheduling platform, where you can view our team of vetted Companions.
If you have questions about our services, please feel free to call 1-844-624-5646 to speak to one of our caring service Advisors.
Reference Links:
History of Veterans Day – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.department.va.gov/veterans-day/history-of-veterans-day/
The Origins of Veterans Day – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/vetday.pdf
Veterans Day Commemorations and Celebrations – National Park Service
www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/veterans-day.htm
Veterans Day Events – Military.com
www.military.com/veterans-day
Veterans Day – 2023 Parades, Events and More – Military.com
www.military.com/veterans-day/events.html
U.S. Flag Code – Military.com
“The rules for handling and displaying the U.S. Flag are defined by a law known as the U.S. Flag Code.”
www.military.com/flag-day/us-flag-code.html
Veterans Day Events – Tunnels to Towers
www.t2t.org
Veterans Day Events – Wounded Warrior Project
www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Veterans Day Events – Disabled American Veterans – DAV.org
www.dav.org
because A FAMILY’S LOVE is good medicine – Fisher House
www.fisherhouse.org
Veterans Day – How to Volunteer to Write Letters to Veterans – Soldiers Angels
Veterans Day Events – Soldiers Angels
www.soldiersangels.org
Understanding the Difference Between Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day – USO.org
www.uso.org/stories/2522-understanding-the-difference-of-memorial-day-vs-veterans-day
What’s the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day? – Readers Digest
www.rd.com/article/memorial-day-vs-veterans-day-difference