Make Every Day, Veteran’s Day!

Marine-planting-flagNovember 11 proved we love our Veterans! There were many stories shared of heroes who humbly said they were just doing their jobs, like the heroic story from the Battle of Iwo Jima, of Hershel “Woody” Williams, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient at 92. He only knocked out seven concrete enemy pillboxes and cleared the way for Marines to press the attack on the island – he was just doing his job along with 6,800 American service members who died and thousands more who were injured taking the island back from 22,000 Japanese defenders. http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/11/09/voices-enduring-hero-marines-most-iconic-battle/75104166/

While it is great to have a special day to honor our Veterans, they deserve our gratitude every day. Almost all of us have a family member or friend who is a Veteran, yet each and every one is unique and special for their service. Whether they served during war time or not, they gave of their lives and time to secure our freedom. Here are 7 practical ways you can thank a Veteran every day:

  1. Hire a Veteran – the skills and leadership experience of our Veterans are highly transferable; not only that, but the values of our Veterans are prized by employers.
  2. Help a Veteran get a job – Veteran’s typically are clueless when it comes to navigating the civilian workplace, especially when they first transition from service. Give them practical advice on how to market themselves. Free Veterans Job Search Support
  3. Offer support to a Veteran’s family in some practical way – remember that the service of a Veteran also impacts his or her family.High Five - Air Force
  4. Give a Veteran a gift that will brighten their day.
  5. “High 5” a Veteran — when you see someone you know who is a Veteran, let them know how much they are appreciated.
  6. Buy a Veteran lunch or a coffee – it’s the thought that counts!
  7. Just say, THANK YOU for your service!

Our Veterans are a precious resource. Without their service, our nation would not be secure, our freedom would be in jeopardy, and our children’s future would be at risk. People around the world have a better chance to achieve freedom because our Veterans believe in a cause greater than themselves. Veterans, we salute you for your dedication, sacrifice and humility!