Veterans Day honors those who have served our nation in the Military, whether in the past, present, or even in the future. The History of Veterans Day comes from the end of WW1, also known as “The Great War.” While it officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. It’s this reason that November 11, 1918 is regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars” and that each November 11th is recognized as Veterans Day.
A veteran is someone who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life. Regardless of personal political views, that is an honor and there are too many people in this country who no longer remember that fact.
Today, we encourage you to thank a Veteran in your life and below, we’ve highlighted our five simple things you can do to thank one.
Five Simple Ways To Thank A Veteran Today
1. Saying Thank You – Just the simple act of saying “Thank you for your service” goes a long way with most veterans. Throw in a handshake too and you’re bound to see a smile on their face. Most Veterans will tell you that they’re no different from you and wanted to be a part of something larger than themselves. While I can echo those sentiments, I’ve always been grateful to those who’ve said thank you.
2. Volunteer – Do something for the veterans in your community. Seriously, what’s an hour of your time for the sacrifices they’ve made? Check out uso.org for ways that you can help. At the least, drop off an anonymous letter at your local VA thanking a veteran; it will get to the right person. If you’re a veteran, look into veteran service organizations you can join. I joined up a few years ago with Team Rubicon and love what they’re doing and what they stand for.
3. Donate – Make a small donation today to any of the fantastic organizations out there that help veterans each and every day. Some of our favorites here at ITS are America’s Mighty Warriors, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and Disabled American Veterans. As a SDVOSB (Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business), ITS has always been committed to raising money for these and many other organizations.
4. Pay for Lunch – One of my fondest memories while serving was actually when a complete stranger came up to a group of three of my buddies and I and paid for our lunch. We were in our Dress Blues eating at a Friday’s in the airport on our way out to San Diego. He simply walked up said “We appreciate what you guys are doing (pointing back to the table of three other men appearing to be traveling on business), this one’s on us.” Offer to pay for a veteran’s meal today, it can go a long way.
5. Never Forget – One of the biggest things you can do, which I think all veterans will agree with me on, is to make the most out of the opportunity you’ve been given. Our freedoms have been paved with the sacrifices of our soldiers and they did so for all of us to enjoy this great country; never forget that or take it for granted.
All of us here at ITS, many of us Veterans too, thank all the Veterans out there for all they’ve done for our Country! For more history on Veterans Day, click here to read a great article on va.gov