There are a lot of ways to celebrate Veterans Day, but with COVID-19 being a risk to so many elders, you should probably do so at a comfortable distance. Some cities will still hold Veterans Day parades on Nov. 11 if you wish to don a mask and attend in person, according to Military.com; or you can live-stream the New York Veterans Parade and other virtual events from your laptop or smartphone. Either way, you can celebrate the men and women who sacrificed to keep the country free and safe. #ThankAVeteran
Tag: Veterans Day
Thank a Veteran for the Three-Day Weekend
Lots of people get Veterans Day off, making 2019’s observance into a three-day weekend. You can use some of that extra time to visit a retired veteran in a retirement home, or write a letter to a current service member. You can volunteer to help a veteran neighbor with their fall yardwork (as this blogger plans to do), or weed out some of your old, unused clothing and household items and donate them to ClothingDonations.org, simultaneously helping fund veterans programs around the country while streamlining your space. However you choose to observe the holiday, the nation’s veterans appreciate your support!
Discounts Thank Veterans for Their Service
One way businesses salute the nation’s veterans and current service members is to offer them special discounts on Veterans Day. Chains such as Baker’s Square, Red Robin and California Pizza Kitchen offer a free meal with proof of service, while retailers such as Walgreen’s, Dollar General, Target and Publix will offer percent-off and other deals over the long weekend. What’s more, the national parks will waive admission for everyone this Veterans Day — and give disabled veterans free Lifetime Access Passes in gratitude for their service.
Celebrating Veterans Day in the Nation’s Capital
There are plenty of ways to celebrate Veterans Day in the nation’s capital, Washington.org says. An annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall will honor those who gave their lives in Vietnam, and memorials dedicated to the U.S. Navy, Air Force and Marines will also host thousands of visitors. Museums often have special programming for the event, and there’s usually no charge for veterans and current service members. And the Washington National Cathedral will host a tribute concert to veterans on the eve of the holiday featuring its choir and the U.S. Marine Orchestra.
The Best Ways to Observe Veterans Day
Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11, and there are as many ways to celebrate those who served as there are veterans — and there are almost 18 million living in the U.S. To honor their service, Military.com suggests, host a special luncheon, recognize veterans in a company newsletter, share their stories, and honor family members who made sacrifices in support. Another great way to show your appreciation? Help out a local veteran service organization (VSO) by volunteering, donating and/or building awareness on veterans’ behalf. Local chapters of the Vietnam Veterans of America can help you get started!