Veterans Day, observed every year on November 11th, is a meaningful occasion for North Americans to reflect on the service and sacrifices of past and current U.S. Armed Forces members. Originally known as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I, the federal government renamed it in 1954 to honor all veterans, past and present.

This day highlights the importance of recognizing their dedication and bravery in safeguarding our freedoms while serving as a call to action for the present. We can help if you’re looking for a way to honor veterans on Veterans Day. Below, we’ve compiled a list of things civilians, homeowners, and business owners can do to show their appreciation for our current and former military servicemembers.

1. Veterans Day Parade

Participating in or attending a Veterans Day parade is a powerful way to show support and appreciation for those who have bravely served our country. Many local communities and veteran organizations arrange such parades, as they provide a platform for veterans to march proudly in uniforms that symbolize their sacrifices while the public shows their appreciation. Families and friends gather to cheer, wave flags, and express gratitude, creating an atmosphere of celebration and respect.

Business owners and non-profit organization managers participate by creating a float to honor veterans or to sponsor a float or a veterans’ group to march in the parade. Simply attending a parade is a great way for civilians to show their appreciation.

2. Veterans Charity Event

Hosting or participating in a veterans’ charity event is another excellent way to honor those who have served. These events raise awareness and funds for veteran-related causes and build a sense of community, whether the event is a fundraiser, a community service project, or a benefit concert. Attendees can contribute by donating money, volunteering their time, or simply spreading the word to increase participation.

You can donate directly or use your business as a sponsor if your town or city is hosting a charity event. However, like parades, just attending or showing your support and appreciation is a great way to honor veteran servicemembers.

3. Fly the American Flag at Home or Work

Flying the United States flag is a simple yet powerful gesture to honor veterans and demonstrate patriotism. Prominently displaying the flag at your home or workplace on Veterans Day serves as a mark of respect and appreciation for those who have served. Choose a location where passersby can easily see it, whether outside of your front door or in a communal space at work.

Ensure the flag is in good condition, free of tears or discoloration, and adhere to proper flag etiquette, such as raising it briskly and lowering it ceremoniously at sunset. Action Flag has a large collection of USA flags for sale if you want to show your appreciation. We make all our inventory in the USA.

4. Donate a Military Service Flag

Another way to honor veterans on Veterans Day is by donating a military service flag to a local school, veterans’ organization, or community center. These flags, representing various branches of the military, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, can serve as educational tools and powerful symbols of pride for both veterans and civilians.

Donating a flag allows you to contribute to the perpetuation of military traditions that are vital in educating future generations about the importance of honoring service members. Show appreciation for the veterans in your life by donating a military branch flag your loved one served under.

5. Invite a Veteran Speaker to School, Church, or Community Group

Consider inviting a veteran to speak at a local school, church, or community group to share their unique experiences and insights gained during their time in service. Personal stories from veterans can offer invaluable lessons in courage, resilience, and the harsh realities of military life that many civilians may not fully understand.

These engagements also provide veterans with a meaningful opportunity to connect with the community, fostering mutual understanding and respect. It creates an enriching experience for both speakers and listeners, allowing students and community members to ask questions and learn directly from those who have served.

6. Veterans Discounts for Businesses and Special Promotions

Businesses can show their appreciation for veterans by offering discounts and special promotions on Veterans Day. These gestures demonstrate gratitude and encourage other community members to recognize and support veterans.

For instance, restaurants might provide free meals, while retail stores offer discounts on merchandise. Small businesses can also offer promotions directly to veterans through veteran organizations and charities by donating gift certificates, gift cards, and discount pamphlets to the groups for distribution among their members.

7. Veterans Memorial or Monument Ceremony

Attending or organizing a ceremony at a local veterans memorial or monument is a meaningful way to commemorate Veterans Day. These solemn occasions allow individuals and communities to pay tribute to those who have courageously served and serve as moments for collective reflection on the tremendous sacrifices our veterans have made.

During the ceremony, veterans and their families may share personal stories, read the names of those who served, or listen to speeches from veterans. Such gatherings strengthen community bonds and highlight the importance of honoring military service, fostering a deeper appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy today.

8. Arrange Care Packages for Deployed Service Members

While Veterans Day primarily honors former servicemembers, it also provides a meaningful opportunity to support those currently serving our country. Organizing a drive to collect and send care packages to deployed troops can bring immense joy and comfort to those far from home. Consider coordinating with local businesses or community organizations to gather items such as snacks, toiletries, and handwritten notes expressing your gratitude.

You might include small personal touches, such as artwork from children in the community to make the packages even more special. These thoughtful gestures provide essential comforts and serve as powerful reminders for service members of the appreciation from their fellow patriots at home.

9. Moment of Silence at 11:00 AM

Consider encouraging a moment of silence at 11:00 AM, honoring the start time of the armistice that ended The Great War, as part of your Veterans Day observance. This tradition aligns with the original Armistice Day observance and serves as a deeply personal and collective tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

Encourage family, friends, and colleagues to join you in this quiet moment of reflection, allowing everyone to honor the legacy of those who served in their own way. Over a century later, it’s still important for Americans and everyone to solemnly observe the moment in which peace finally overcame war.

Fly the Flag Proudly With Action Flag

Veterans Day is more than just a date; it’s a time to honor those who have bravely served our country. Express your gratitude in countless ways, from hosting or attending parades and charity events to flying the flag.

Action Flag is here to help if you’d like to purchase commemorative or display stick flags for your Veterans Day ceremonies. View our vast inventory of North American and military branch flags online to find everything you need to honor the United States of America and her veterans on this special day.