How to Honor Veterans On Veterans Day

Veterans Day was signed into law by President Ford in 1975.

Veteran Day is an annual event, observed on November 11. It was originally known as Armistice Day and was used as an opportunity to honor the veterans and the fallen of World War One. Today, Veterans Day is dedicated to the soldiers in all conflicts fought by U.S. armed forces, both past and present, and is an opportunity for the public to acknowledge their sacrifices, patriotism and dedication to freedom.

Instructions

1. Attend a regional observance. The Veterans Day National Committee organizes a number of regional observances throughout the country that are free to attend. These often include parades, military exhibits and ceremonies to honor local veterans. Gather as many family and friends as you can to show your support for veterans. A full list of regional locations can be found on the Department of Veterans Affairs website.

2. Visit a National Park. Honor veterans at a local battlefield site or military park that commemorates their service. You can visit sites from a variety of conflicts, including the Civil War and World War Two. A full list of sites can be obtained from the National Park Service website.

3. Wear your medals. Whether you have served in the military or are related to a veteran, be sure to wear your medals with pride on Veterans Day. Regardless of the conflict, share your story with friends and family as a commemoration to the those who have served.

4. Make a donation. Whether it's time or money, making a donation to a military charity, veterans center or hospital is another way that you can honor veterans. Contact charities to find out what help they most need. You can find a list of non-profit organizations on the Reconnect America website.

5. Share knowledge. Research how American veterans were treated when they returned from a military conflict. You could choose a modern conflict, like Iraq, or a historical conflict, like Vietnam. Use books and the Internet to conduct your research. Share your findings with family and friends to educate them about the challenges faced by veterans.

Tips & Warnings

• Replacement medals can be ordered from the branch of the armed forces with which the veteran served.

References

• U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs: History of Veterans Day
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Day
• National Park Service: Honor America's Veterans
• U.S. Military: Wear Your Medals on Veterans Day
• U.S. Military: 7 Ways to Celebrate Veterans Day With Your Children

Resources

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Day Regional Sites
• National Park Service: National Parks That Preserve or Commemorate Battlefields
• Reconnect America: Homepage