Are you looking for a way to honor a special Veteran in your life this Veteran’s Day?

Unless you have served in the military, it may not occur to you how important Veteran’s Day really is. But, for the estimated 16.5 million Veterans that have exhibited this ultimate act of dedication and commitment, Veteran’s Day won’t likely go unnoticed. And, neither should they.

This is why it’s imperative for those who appreciate the bravery and service of Vets to take time on Veteran’s Day to show them how much they mean to the rest of us.

If you have a special Veteran in your life, let them know they’re appreciated with these Veteran’s Day celebration ideas!

Veteran’s Day Celebration Ideas to Show You Care

All too often, the Veterans that fight for our country feel that their service is not appropriately acknowledged.

Many of the men and women who have served in the United States military end up living on the streets. In fact, Veterans make up a whopping 12% of the homeless population.

It’s easy to see how they might feel forgotten.

But, this Veteran’s Day, you can do your part to honor the Vets who have given their most valiant effort in maintaining our country’s freedoms.

Here are some Veteran’s Day celebration ideas to help you show them how much they are appreciated.

1. Learn From Them

Few of us can truly imagine the act of serving our country, especially if we haven’t done so ourselves. But, we can all learn from the experiences of those who have served.

Simply reaching out to a special Vet and asking them to share their recollections about their time in the military can mean a lot.

If you are involved with your child’s school, a local chamber of commerce or another organization, you might ask a Veteran to speak to a group about their role. Allowing a Veteran to talk about their military job, day to day activities, and their feelings can make them feel important on this special day.

2. Celebrate Them

Many major cities hold their own Veteran’s Day parades or have celebratory traditions to honor this special group of men and women.

Participating in your home town’s Veteran’s Day celebration is one way that you can express your gratitude to not just one Veteran, but all of the Vets in your community.

3. Offer a Special Patriotic Gift

Our military makes sacrifices without ever expecting anything in return. That’s why when they receive a token of gratitude for their service, it means so much to them.

Most Veterans receive little, if any, thanks for their tour of duty. Even those closest to them often forget the great gift they have given us.

When you make the time and effort to choose something special to commemorate their service, it’s something that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. It gives them a small reminder of your gratitude for years to come.

A patriotic coin is just one example of the many patriotic gifts you might give the special Vet in your life.

However, a commemorative coin tends to be a favorite among givers and receivers alike because it can easily fit in their wallet, or they can display it on their mantle. It can fit in their pocket, offering a gentle reminder that you are thankful as they go throughout the day.

For more info about patriotic coins, check out the Patriotic Challenge Coins website. These coins are not only patriotic, but they are also beautiful, and more affordable than you might imagine.

4. Take them to Lunch

Veteran’s Day is the perfect time to treat a special Vet (or two) to an honorary lunch. If you can’t schedule a lunchtime meal, breakfast or dinner works, too.

It’s not as much the meal, after all, as it is the act of remembering what they have done for all Americans. This is what they will appreciate most when you extend a Veteran’s Day invitation to buy their lunch.

If your community offers a Veteran’s Day meal, you might round up all of those who have served in your family or neighborhood for a group outing. They will delight in swapping stories with fellow service men and women. And, you will take pleasure in knowing that you made their holiday extra memorable.

5. Fly Old Glory

It may not seem like much, but waving Old Glory can mean a lot to a Veteran. It shows that you support and appreciate the things that they fought for, and the country in which we live. It gives Vets a sense of pride to see their flag waving, and especially on a day that’s purpose is to honor their sacrifice.

6. A Homemade Remembrance

Anyone can create a homemade masterpiece for a Vet, no matter how old or young they might be. And, you can feel sure that a Veteran won’t be able to resist smiling when you present your gift to them.

You can paint or draw a patriotic picture, or you could choose to create a flag using items around the house. Even a homemade card that’s crafted from plain old construction paper will let them know that you are thinking of them on this special day.

There’s no need to spend a lot of money to show your appreciation. A homemade remembrance may cost you nothing, but a gift from the heart always goes a long way to show others you care.

7. Hug a Vet

Last but not least, offering a hug is a simple gesture that speaks volumes to those who have served our country in its’ time of need. And, anyone can give a hug.

Whether you have a Vet in your own family, or spot someone wearing their dress blues walking down the street, a hug will let them know you care about them.

On Veteran’s Day, you can get away with hugging a perfect stranger, as long as he or she is a Vet.

But, you don’t have to hug all of the Vets you see on Veteran’s Day. Offering a “thank you” and a firm handshake will also do the trick.

Want More Celebration Tips?

If you’re looking for more Veteran’s Day celebration ideas, or have another special occasion to celebrate, we can help.

Check out this post on how to throw the perfect backyard celebration that everyone will love!