3 Ways To Thank A Vet This Veteran's Day

Happy Veteran’s Day to those who have served and currently dedicate their lives to our country!

My favorite veteran with some Iraqi children during his first deployment!

In the spirit of the holiday, I wanted to share a few ways you can thank a veteran. Before I met Dane, I was kind of clueless to the military lifestyle. I always saw things like Wounded Warrior Project and gentlemen selling poppies outside Walmart, but I never really knew what I could truly do to help. If you’re nodding your head, I’ve got 3 ways you can give back and thank a vet!

1. Take A Veteran Out To Eat.

It doesn’t have to be a fancy 6-course dinner, but taking time out to sit, chat and enjoy a meal or a coffee together means so much to those who have served. Ask them about their service, what branch they served and, if you’re able, pick up the tab. You have to eat anyway, you might as well enjoy some extra company 🙂

2. Call or Visit A Local Hospital or VA.

Find out how you can help. Donate baked goods, write letters, pay a visit, make a monetary donation or volunteer for outings. We have done this at the local hospital and it was so rewarding to see the smiles and gratitude.

3. Support Veteran-Owned Companies.

After service to our country, most veterans and spouses continue to work to support their families. Shop small when it comes to holiday gifts and services and give back in a greater way! Many times, companies that may not be veteran-owned will give proceeds to amazing local charities, so keep your eyes peeled for that as well! Hey, if you’re going to shop anyhow… 😉

I would be remiss in not including a a charity that is near and dear to my heart. The Independence Fund is an organization that supports our injured and wounded veterans with the tools to achieve their independence and freedoms they have fought so hard to preserve.

When our friend, Mike, was severely injured on a deployment, he came home from Afghanistan two limbs short. The Independence Fund has not only helped him in his journey to recovery, but has provided his wife, Sarah, with the support she needs as a full-time caregiver and mom.

If you need a place to start in supporting companies who are giving back to veterans, start here.