9 Ways to Thank a Veteran This Veterans Day

Take a few minutes to show your appreciation for our nation’s veterans on November 11^th, Veterans Day. There are so many ways to express your gratitude! Join Community Financial as we thank past and present military members this Veterans Day.

1. Fly a Flag (The Right Way)

Veterans Day offers a wonderful time to fly “Old Glory”. Just make sure you’re observing the proper rules for its display this time of year. Read up on all you need to know about flying the flag on the military’s guide to the flag here.

2. Visit a VA Hospital

Call the closest Veterans Administration Hospital and ask about their policies for interacting with patients or volunteering. A great way to spend this Veterans Day is visiting a recovering vet or volunteering your services at the hospital.

3. Send a Care Package

There are many organizations that will accept donations to safely assemble and send a care package to an anonymous soldier on your behalf. Find a list of these organizations and contact them here.

4. Make a Donation

There are loads of nonprofit organizations offering many services to members of the military. Most or all will gladly accept donations. Look through this list to find the one that’s right for you.

5. Donate Your Car

If you’re looking for a way to get rid of your old vehicle, consider donating it to the military. There are lots of organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation, that will accept your old car, truck or RV. These services are free, highly convenient, and may also net you a tax deduction.

6. Attend a Veterans Day Event

There’s nothing like attending a Veterans Day event or parade to show your support for the military!

7. Bake Some Cookies

Whip up a batch of your favorite cookies to share on Veterans Day. You’ll be showing a veteran how much you appreciate his or her service in the sweetest way possible.

8. Send a Card or Email

If you personally know a veteran, send him or her a postcard or email recognizing their contributions to the country. If you don’t know any past service members, you can look up the closest military station and simply send one there.

9. Run for our Veterans

If you like to exercise, consider running or walking for our vets. You can join a sponsored race that donates proceeds to the military almost anywhere in the country. Get some friends to join you and work up a real sweat while supporting veterans. There are many organizations, like Veterans Day 10K, which will help make your race possible by providing you with logistics and fundraising web pages for your run. Look up more information about races around the country on Militarybenefits.com.

Your Turn: How will you thank a veteran this Veterans Day? Tell us about it in the comments.