5 Easy Ways to Honor a Veteran on Veterans Day

There are many easy ways to honor and pay tribute to a veteran this Veterans Day. Remember, this is an occasion to acknowledge all service members, soldiers, or individuals that have served the nation in a branch of the military. Consider these simple gestures this Veterans Day, also called Armistice Day, to honor our armed forces.  

Make sure to set aside November 11^th to celebrate and honor veterans for Veterans Day. Since 1919 when Woodrow Wilson designated this date as ‘Armistice Day’, Americans honor past and present service members in one way or another. Veterans Day should not be confused with the observances of Memorial Day, in May, which pays homage to fallen service members through graveside ceremonies and commemorative poppies.  

There are some ways to honor and observe Veterans Day that is easy, particularly if you live with physical limitations or mobility issues. In many instances, quality mobility aids and equipment can increase accessibility and enhance overall quality of life.  

Honor veterans this Veterans Day in one of these 5 easy ways: 

1. Fly a Flag 

Perhaps the easiest and most meaningful thing that you can do on Veterans Day is to fly the American flag. There are a few tips for flying the flag properly that include: 

• Don’t let the flag touch the ground.  
• Never fly it upside-down; the stars belong at the top. 
• Display your flag so that it won’t become tangled in something around it.  

When it comes to easy ways to honor American veterans, flying the American flag is at the top of the list.  

2. A Moment of Silence 

Another simple way to acknowledge the sacrifices of our American veterans is to observe a moment of silence. On Veterans Day, the traditional observance occurs at 11:11 am on November 11^th, and the moment of silence lasts approximately two minutes, typically. Encourage others, family, neighbors, and coworkers to do the same. This is a very basic, simple way to show solidarity, support, and appreciation to veterans widely. Reflect on their sacrifices during this brief but powerful moment.  

3. Visit a Park 

Did you know that some state parks, museums, and attractions offer free admission on Veterans Day? If you are a veteran, let them know; check various sights online to see if they give free entry for vets and their families. Better yet, invite someone that has served to accompany you and your family on one of these outings. Depending on where you live, there may be lots of options to choose from.  

If you are not a vet, go ahead and show support for these businesses year-round to contribute to their Veterans Day promotion. This ensures that they continue to thrive, prosper, and bring such opportunities to the veterans of your area.  

4. Give to Charity 

An obvious way to give to veterans is through charitable work and/or donations to veteran-focused organizations. Not sure which groups assist veterans, specifically? You can call or visit your area’s VA (Veteran Affairs) center or hospital to learn more. Whether you want to take time to spend with vets or if you can donate small items that help their group, like blankets or toiletries, this is a good place to start.  

Donating time or resources to veterans is an excellent way to honor these individuals on their special day and is completely in-line with the mission of this observance. Some VA hospitals rely on their volunteers for a wide range of services that the facility provides; it is likely you will find volunteering opportunities.  

5. Share your Time 

This final suggestion for honoring veterans this Veterans Day is something that you can do any time, or year-round. The greatest way to say ‘thank you’ to a veteran is to take time out of your day to engage and interact. Whether you take a veteran out for coffee, or simply make the time to ask an individual that has served about their day, sharing your time is the greatest gift.  

Some communities offer libraries with talks, book reading, and other events that might be a great way to connect with veterans as well as others in your region. Make it a point to say thank you and spend a few minutes with someone that served this Veterans Day. You may notice, but this gesture can be life-changing for some and immensely rewarding for yourself. The only thing that you have to lose is a few moments out of your day. Go ahead and try it! 

We want to thank service members past and present for their sacrifices. We honor and understand the importance of Veterans Day. We have dedicated years serving Bay Area residents that have mobility challenges or limitations- including many veterans.  For quality mobility aids in the Bay Area, call on us at Pacific Mobility.  We look forward to serving you!