Get Involved on Veteran’s Day
For more than two centuries, members of our Armed Forces have defended our country with unyielding courage. In our Nation's times of need, these brave patriots step forward to answer America's call, leaving behind everything they know and love.
--excerpt from President Barack Obama's 2014 Presidential Proclamation for Military Family Appreciation Month
In the United States, we set aside the month of November for thankfulness. On Veterans Day, we want to show gratitude to those people who keep us safe - our armed forces. Take the time on November 11th to do something special for our veterans and their families by thanking them personally, or perhaps by reaching out. Here are some ways you can thank a veteran for all they’ve done:
- Send care packages to soldiers overseas or adopt a soldier for the holidays.
- Learn about the programs offered by the Armed Forces YMCA and volunteer or donate.
- The USO has many programs that benefit our service members and their families. Visit their website and find out how you can help support them.
- Ask your friends and family on social media if they have a loved one who is deployed who would benefit from encouraging cards, emails, and care packages.
- If you know a local military family, volunteer your babysitting services or learn other ways you can help out during the holidays.
- Support Team Red, White and Blue's WOD with Warriors events. This is a fitness tribute workout held twice a year on Veterans and Memorial Day at gyms throughout the country. Team Red, White and Blue's mission is to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their communities through physical and social activity.
- Visit war memorials with your children to teach them about the value of our troops.
- Employers might be interested in checking out the Wounded Warrior Project's veteran employer program.
- The VFW does many things—from standing up for veteran’s rights in Washington, DC, to reaching out with help in communities across America. Find out how you could help.
- If you have difficulty reaching out to veterans, take this free course offered by the PsychArmor Institute. You'll learn what questions you should and shouldn't ask veterans about their military experiences.
On Veterans Day, show how thankful you are by reaching out to veterans and their families.