11 WAYS TO CELEBRATE VETERANS DAY

November 11th serves as a dedicated day each year to recognize and honor those who have served and continue to serve in our military. This day should not be mistaken for Memorial Day, which is specifically for remembering the service members who have lost their lives. 

Veterans Day presents a wonderful chance for civilians to learn about the ongoing sacrifices made by service members and their families throughout the year. It also offers unique activities for Veterans and their families that they may not experience regularly.

Many restaurants provide free meals or discounts to Veterans and active service members on Veterans Day. Please remember that establishments may require proof of service (such as military IDs or separation documents), so be sure to have them on hand. It's also advisable to call ahead to confirm whether a restaurant is participating in this offer.

Numerous state parks and museums grant free admission on Veterans Day. Check their websites or give them a call to verify their policies.

Create a list of Veterans you know and send them a thank-you card this year. You can expand this list over time and make it a tradition to send your greetings annually. It's quick and meaningful to send a thoughtful message to a Veteran or a service member who is currently deployed. Here are some tips on writing letters for troops to help you get started.

If you don't have someone overseas to send a package to, reach out to a local military base or an organization like Blue Star Moms to find troops who would appreciate a care package. Here are some suggestions for items that deployed service members would love to receive.

A fun project can be an excellent way to introduce young children to the significance of Veterans Day. There are various engaging ways to educate kids about the holiday, including coloring activities and online videos.

Teachers can help students gain insight into the history of Veterans Day through a timeline or a short writing assignment. Consider organizing a creative writing contest with a Veterans Day theme. Collaborate with the school to understand any specific guidelines, and you might find willing judges from local Veteran organizations, active service members, or educators at nearby universities.

Inviting a Veteran to speak to students is a meaningful way for them to learn firsthand about the experiences of those who have served. Consider asking a parent, grandparent, faculty member, or community member who is a Veteran to share their story.

A simple thank you can have a profound impact. You might also choose to take a Veteran in your workplace out for coffee or lunch as a gesture of appreciation. Remember that many Veterans are modest and may prefer a low-key acknowledgment.

Veteran-owned businesses can be found in nearly every community. You can easily locate them using Google My Business profiles, which often identify them with a "Veteran-Led" label. Additionally, you can refer to directories for Veteran-owned businesses or ask those in your community for recommendations.

Numerous charities assist Veterans who are in need. This Veterans Day, consider contributing to a charity to support those affected by their service.

One intimate way to show your appreciation is by observing a moment of silence. Traditionally, this moment is recognized for two minutes at 11:11 AM every Veterans Day.