How to say Thanks to a Veteran, Soldiers and their families

A simple gesture can say so much more than a simple Thanks and walking away. Spend some time with him or her, help them out let them know you care.

They have sacrificed so much in the protection of democracy worldwide as well as the freedoms we often take for granted.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Kindness
• A cup of coffee
• Five minutes of your time
• A greeting card
• A thank you card
• A pat on the back

1. 
   A Simple gesture can mean so much to a lonely Vet.

   If you know a Veteran who seems to be struggling ask him for a cup of coffee, a soda or maybe sit and have lunch with him or her. Spending more time with them can mean the difference in them hurting them self or finding help that they need. Especially the Vets who have seen combat.

2. 
   http://cesr.ua.edu/images/programsandactivities/DJ_07ThankYouForListening.jpg

   Don't talk, just listen. He may just need a kind ear. Understand what they are saying without judging them all too often they feel guilty for the things they are asked to do that would be illegal in normal circumstances. Be caring without being overly empathetic to their issues.

3. 

   Do not be afraid to fix something for him/her. They may be unable to do this themselves.
   - What is 20.00 worth of lumber to fix their steps.
   - They were willing to lay their life on the line for you.
   
   A kind gesture to help them out may make all the difference for them and for you.

4. 

   If you know a family with members serving now, Remember their children during this Holiday Season.
   - The children suffer in silence and need a helping hand too
   - Don't be afraid to offer to be Santa for the local kids of Veterans and those currently serving
   - Try to avoid letting the kids think about their parent overseas and give them joy and happiness if for only a couple of hours.

Tips & Warnings

• A little Time can mean the world to someone else who gave for your freedoms
• During this Holiday Season please help those serving and those who have served
• Contact your local American Legion Post and see if you can help out
• Contact the American Red Cross and see how you can help Veterans in your area
• Contact the USO and see what they might need to provide a moments peace for Soldiers serving Overseas

Resources

• USO helps Soldiers Daily around the world
• They also help Soldiers in need ( They helped me when I served)
• Veterans Administration
• American Legion National Headquarters: Troop Support Page
• To help those who have paid the sacrifice
• Veterans of Foreign Wars
• Disabled American Veterans
• Donate Clothing for Homeless Veterans in your state
• Veterans Group aimed to protect and honor Veterans and their Memorial Monuments Across the US
• Veterans Administration on Facebook
• Honor Fallen Soldiers on Facebook
• Fisher House helps Soldiers and their families in need

[5hotsinaz]

on 11/6/2008 I'm speaking at an elementary school Veteran's Day Assembly on Monday, NOV 10 and was looking for some tips on what to say. I did not want to just talk about ME...this information is PERFECT and I plan on passing it along :)

[JRIngrisano]

on 12/9/2007 Good piece, Jerry. I try to make it a point on Veterans' Day to call or email veterans I know just to say thanks for standing at the wall and protecting our freedom. God bless our vets.

[jtphantom]

on 12/7/2007 Your welcome.

[Ceile]

on 12/7/2007 This brought tears to my eyes, and I have to tell you this is such a excellent article! I wish everyone would follow even ONE of these ideas....what a different world we would live in! Thank you.