How Can I Support Our Veterans?

10 Ways to Show Appreciation to Armed Service Veterans

Veterans Day is celebrated in the United States every year on November 11. Originally established in 1919 as Armistice Day to commemorate the signing of the armistice that ended World War I at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month the year prior, the holiday was formally changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor U.S. veterans of all wars.

 

Veterans Day serves as an opportunity for citizens to show their appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans, inviting individuals to reflect on and show gratitude for the selfless service put forth by all people defending freedom. Where on Memorial Day Americans remember and honor those who lost their lives in war, Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans.

 

To show gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans, you may be wondering what you can do to support U.S. military veterans. Continue reading to learn 10 ways you can support veterans:

 

1. Visit a local Veteran Affairs (VA) facility

New York State is home to a number of veterans homes and VA clinics. One way to show thanks to veterans is by visiting one of these facilities to try to brighten some of the residents’ days simply by spending some time together. Do some research to find out where the closest clinic is to you and contact the staff to see how you can arrange a visit. Some VA clinics may even allow you to bring in a pet to meet the veterans!

2. Offer sincere gratitude for their service

“Thank you for your service” is a phrase that is often communicated around Veterans Day, so much so that it may or may not be appreciated by service members. While it can be a nice gesture to thank a stranger for their service, it is also an intimate subject to mention in passing. When you thank a military veteran for their service, remember that their military history can be an extremely personal and formative topic and one that should be discussed with the utmost respect.

3. Volunteer to drive veterans to appointments

One step you can take to make an immediate difference in the life of a veteran is to volunteer to drive them to an appointment. While VA services strive to take care of veterans in need, veterans can sometimes use additional support getting to and from appointments. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Transportation Network is one possible place you can easily sign up to volunteer to shuttle veterans.

4. Attend a Veterans Day Parade

Many communities stage parades on Veterans Day as a display of patriotism for those in the military. Get involved by spectating a local Veterans Day parade near you! If you are unsure of opportunities to do so, contact your local veterans service organization such as the VFW or American Legion to see how you can show support.

5. Get informed and spread the word about available veterans resources

When it comes to supporting veterans who are struggling with life after service, one of the best things you can do is educate yourself on available resources so that you can help a veteran get the help they need if the time ever comes. For more information on benefits available to Veterans in New York State, visit the NYS Division of Veterans Services.

6. Donate to a cause benefiting veterans

Celebrate #GivingTuesday early this month by making a donation to a cause that serves veterans. There are many options to choose from, but consider doing some research locally to see where your support is most needed.

7. Listen to a veteran and help share their story

If a veteran is comfortable sharing stories about their past, consider helping them document their military history to submit to the United States Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project. The Veterans History Project aims to collect, preserve, and make accessible personal accounts of American war veterans.

8. Shop at veteran-owned businesses

Veterans tend to be driven, goal-oriented, and disciplined people—all the makings of a great business owner. Make an effort to shop at veteran owned businesses when possible, to support their bottom line. If you are unsure where to start, check out this database listing veteran-owned businesses in NYS.

9. Respect the Flag Code

While the United States Flag is a symbol representing freedom and patriotism to many, to members of the armed services, it represents much more than that. One way to honor veterans is to learn about the flag code and the proper ways the flag should be presented as a show of respect to the people who have defended it.

10. Teach your kids about Veterans Day

Help inform your children and future generations about Veterans Day and the importance of respecting and serving our veterans. More than a day off from work and school, Veterans Day is a chance to reflect and give back to the people who dedicated their lives to defending freedom.

 

NYCM Insurance is the proud workplace of a number of veterans who served our country and now support our customers. Click below to read a blog highlighting some of these amazing veterans!