Tag: veterans

How to Honor Veterans and Their Families

Soldiers standing in front of a flag and saluting. Honoring our veterans and their families

You might know that November 11th is Veteran’s Day, which is celebrated every year in America to honor those who’ve served their country. But did you know that the entirety of November is also related to veterans? Or, more specifically, their families. 

November is Military Family Month—a time to acknowledge and recognize the sacrifices our military families make alongside their veterans. Wondering how to honor our veterans and their families? Below are a few simple things you can do to show your gratitude and support. 

Ways to Honor Your Veterans

Thank a Veteran 

There are around 19 million veterans in the U.S. right now, and while you can’t thank all of them, you can certainly make the veterans in your life feel appreciated. Even if it’s an active-duty military member you pass on the street, take the time to thank them. You can even send a letter or postcard to a veteran, or if you don’t know one, send it to the closest military installation. 

Listen to Their Stories

Being a veteran is something that non-veterans likely won’t understand, but you can still offer to listen. Some veterans might be hesitant to share their stories, especially if they were active in combat. But if a veteran offers to speak, listen. Ask them questions if they’re willing to answer (remember to be sensitive and respectful) and give them your full attention. 

Donate

There are several organizations that are dedicated to helping veterans. Check here for some ideas on where you can donate. 

Visit a VA Hospital or Senior Living Community 

Find out where your nearest VA hospital or senior living community that houses veterans is, and check their policies. If you can, spend a day with a veteran, or attend any events they might have. You can even volunteer at the facility to help. 

Ways to Honor Military Families 

Veterans deserve an abundance of support, but so do their families. Here are some ways you can show your appreciation this Military Family Month. 

Offer Your Time

Military spouses experience a lot of changes and struggles—frequent moves, deployments, caring for their family, and more. So if you can offer your time in any capacity, by babysitting or running errands, it can help give them a breather. 

Donate on Their Behalf

Donating to a veterans’ charity on behalf of a military family is a great way to show them that you care and are willing to support them. 

Perform a Random Act of Kindness

Take the time out of your day to perform an act of kindness. It can be anonymous, like writing them a thank you note or leaving them a care package. Or, you can thank them publicly on social media and recognize their sacrifice. 

Ask Them How You Can Help

The easiest way to know how to help a military family? Ask them what they need, and do your best to provide it, whether it’s a listening ear, help with the chores, or anything else. 

You don’t have to wait until November to honor veterans and their families. At Found and Sons Funeral Chapel and Cremation Services, we recognize and are always grateful for the huge sacrifices our veterans make everyday. To learn more, take a look at our Veteran’s Services or contact us today.

Thanking Our Veterans

Veterans Day

Veterans Day is our day to give thanks to the men and women who have served in the military. On this upcoming Veterans Day, we hope that you join us in taking a moment to reflect on the sacrifices veterans have made and thank a veteran in your community.

A History – Celebration and Tribute

World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…”

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Ways to Show Appreciation

The sense of pride in all veterans is tantamount to the preservation of our freedoms and way of life. Thank a veteran every day, not just on Veterans Day.” Here are some ways you can say “thanks.”

  • Attend services and observances in your area
  • Donate – There are plenty of organizations that offer all manner of support, services, and appreciation for our service members. To get a few ideas for donations, you can click here.
  • Fly the American flag
  • Ask someone about their service
  • Write – If you know a veteran, write a simple postcard or e-card that recognizes them on Veterans Day. Small acts of recognizing someone’s service, even anonymously, are appreciated.
  • Spend time with a Veteran outdoors – Being outside helps improve physical and mental health, boosts emotional well-being, and is a great way to celebrate the day with a veteran

Veteran’s Services

We truly believe that the men and women who answered our nation’s call embody the ideals Americans hold so dear. Because they have proven their devotion to their fellow citizens and to a grateful nation, we all owe them the same respect and devotion in return. We are proud to honor those who have served. To learn more about Veteran’s Services or to see if you or a Veteran you know is eligible, click here.