If you are looking for ways to thank veterans and those who serve, these tips will give you some ideas.
Among the patriotic holidays our nation celebrates each year is Independence Day. This federal holiday celebrates the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress declared the thirteen American colonies to be free and independent of the British monarch.
While everyone has their own way of celebrating, remember to also salute and thank veterans and active duty service men and women who are integral in our freedom. If you aren’t sure where to start, we have a few ideas you might find helpful.
Thanking Veterans on Independence Day
- Volunteer at a veterans’ organization: One way to show appreciation for our nation’s service men and women is to volunteer for an organization that assists veterans. You will likely find a variety of organizations in your community, ranging from Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) halls to veterans’ health care clinics, to donate your time and talents.
- Share the stories: Veterans are often reluctant to share their stories of personal courage and sacrifice. It can result in younger generations not being aware of a grandparent’s or other elder’s service history. If your family is celebrating Independence Day together this year, make a point of sharing photos from your loved one’s service days. Encourage them to talk about where and when they served or ask permission to discuss the stories for them.
- Explore the Veterans’ History Project: The American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress developed a way to gather the stories of our nation’s veterans and preserve them. It is called the Veterans’ History Project. You can participate and capture the story of a veteran in your life by interviewing the veteran or by sharing their correspondence or photos.
- Organize a local recognition event: Another way to honor our veterans and those who serve is to organize an event in your local community. For example, collect photos of veterans and active duty service people from your area. Post their photos in a display at the local library or senior center. At Legacy Senior Living communities, you’ll find a “Wall of Honor” filled with the photos and names of residents who served.
- Send thank you notes: Several military service organizations arrange letter-writing campaigns to let those who are serving in overseas know they are not forgotten. At your Independence Day celebration, set up a table with notecards and supplies and ask guests to write a few thank you notes. Operation We Are Here and Operation Gratitude are two examples of organizations to partner with.
It is always important to actively remember the reason we are able to celebrate with family and friends every July 4th.
