Use these patriotic ways to celebrate Veterans Day this year. Veterans need your support and recognition. They volunteered to serve this country.
Every year, on November 11, the country stops to celebrate Veterans Day. It is a small way to thank the men and women who volunteered to serve this country and protect it from harm. There are many patriotic ways to celebrate Veterans Day. Some involve displays of patriotism, and others consist of getting involved and helping the veteran’s community. Whatever way you decide to celebrate, do it with pride.
Adopt a Military Family
Veterans and their families face many issues and struggles as they adapt to civilian life. The holidays are an especially tough time for military families. Some military families, such as those with a deployed parent, veteran families on a limited income, or families of veterans injured post 9/11, participate in the Adopt-A-Family program. Sponsored by Soldiers’ Angels, the group pairs willing participants with a military family in need. Help them to have a happy holiday season by lending a hand.
Support a Veterans Organization
There are hundreds of veteran’s organizations around the country. They all have the mission of helping veterans in a variety of ways. Some, like K-9s for Warriors, train support dogs for wounded veterans and those with PTSD. Some help veterans cope with mental health issues, finding work, building homes, and integrating back into civilian life. Find such a group, and donate your time, abilities, or money so that they can continue to help veterans.
Participate in the National Two Minutes of Silence
The Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act became law in 2016. Its purpose is to bring Americans together and provide an opportunity to reflect on how veterans have affected their lives. The moment of silence takes place at 1:11 p.m. Central Standard Time—take two minutes out of your day to reflect and honor those that served.
Participate in the #BeThere Campaign
Suicide is the greatest risk facing veterans today. They deal with many emotional and physical problems when they return home, and sometimes, they don’t know how to cope. Many have nobody to talk with or confide in, so they suffer in silence. The newly launched #BeThere campaign encourages Americans to live by the “no veteran left behind” code. Simple acts like bringing a meal over or texting could be exactly what a struggling veteran needs. Simply being there is the most patriotic way to celebrate Veterans Day.