Honoring the Veterans in Your Life
Veterans Day, which is observed on November 11, provides a wonderful opportunity to honor those who’ve served in the armed forces. There are many ways to recognize and celebrate those in your community who have served in the military. Here are a few ideas.
6 Ways to Show Your Appreciation on Veterans Day
Organize a Care-Package Packing Party
Sending care packages is a great way to boost morale and provide a soldier with a tangible connection to home. Even if you don’t know someone who is currently stationed overseas, you can still make sure a care package gets into the hands of someone who will appreciate it. Contact a nearby base or a nonprofit organization such as The Hugs Project to find troops in need. Before assembling care packages, make sure you know what you aren’t allowed to send and what troops really want.
Visit a Veterans’ Hospital
Many VA hospitals have events on Veterans Day to honor local veterans, and they generally welcome community participation. Note that in 2020, hospital visitation policies vary widely by region. Before planning your visit, make sure you contact your local VA hospital to find out whether visits are permitted or if volunteer opportunities are available.
Wear a Red Poppy
In 1920, the poppy became the American Legion’s official flower to memorial soldiers who fought and died in World War I. Four years later, the organization kicked off a national program to distribute poppies with the request that those who receive them make a donation to support active-duty military personnel and their families. Today, the American Legion Auxiliary still distributes red poppies on Veterans Day nationwide. These poppies are constructed from crepe paper and are made by veterans as part of their rehabilitation programs, and donations received in exchange for the flowers go straight to help disabled and hospitalized vets in the community. To provide your support, contact your local American Legion office.
Say Thank You
Extending a simple word of gratitude or a small act of kindness when you see someone in uniform is an easy way to show how much you appreciate their service.
Attend a Veterans Day Event
As Will Rogers famously said, “We can’t all be heroes because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by.” This year, consider attending a Veterans Day event in your town – not just an informal gathering with friends, but an actual parade or service for veterans.
Donate
While it may not feel flashy, donating money is a quick and simple option to thank your community’s veterans in a meaningful way. VA Medical Centers accept donations online via major credit and debit cards. The full amount of your donation goes toward supporting veterans, and you even get to decide which fund your money will support. There are also a wide array of nonprofits that always need donations to continue to provide services.
Honoring the Veteran in Your Life with Soundwave Art
If you’re looking for a gift to honor the veteran in your life this Veterans Day, check out our customizable Soundwave Art dog tags. Simply record the message you want engraved on the pendant, and we’ll convert it to a soundwave.
