Tuesday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day, or the day when U.S. citizens express their gratitude to the many servicemembers who have served the nation. According to U.S. News & World Report, there are 21.8 million veterans in the country today. Check out the ways in which you can show your respect and appreciation today and every day.
Attend an event
There are a number of parades and gatherings taking place across the U.S. on Veterans Day. In Washington, D.C., you can attend the annual ceremony held at Arlington National Cemetery. A wreath is placed at the Tomb of the Unknowns and a parade of colors is put on by different veterans' groups inside the Memorial Amphitheater. New York City holds the largest Veterans Day Parade in the country. According to Newsweek, this year's theme is "Land of the Free, Home of the Brave." The event is sponsored by the United War Veterans Council and runs from 26th Street to 52nd Street along Fifth Avenue.
Invest in their futures
According to CNN, one of the best ways you can pay your respects to those who have served the U.S. is by supporting their employment. About 77 percent of veterans have a hard time finding a job after they leave the military. Unemployment rates are also significantly higher among the veteran population, noted the source. This is especially true for veterans of recent wars – soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan face unemployment rates around 10 percent, compared to the national average of 5.9. Consider hiring veterans or supporting local veteran-owned businesses to display your gratitude for their sacrifices.
Volunteer
Whatever your talents and resources are, there is a way for you to put them to work by volunteering for a veterans' group. Health professionals, especially those focusing on mental health, are always in high demand for the veteran population. Organizations like Give an Hour allow health care providers to volunteer their time to diagnose, treat and talk to veterans, who are not charged for the appointment. CNN noted that there are a variety of programs that involve connecting servicemembers transitioning to civilian life with people in their community who can help ease the often overwhelming change.
There are many opportunities to help the families of veterans as well, since many times they also need assistance coping with the realities of war. Groups like the Code of Support Foundation help military families navigate life after service and assists them in choosing the most beneficial resources.