Veterans Day - November 11, 2018
More than four million Americans saw battle in World War I, and more than three hundred thousand lost their lives. We observe Veterans Day each year on November 11, the date that marks the anniversary of the end of WWI, when an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany on November 11, 1918. You can honor the brave men and women who have and continue to selflessly serve our country to protect our freedoms through various activities, both long and short-term.
Here are ways you can get involved:
- If you’re looking for an easy and effective way for kids and students to reach out directly to veterans, visit http://www.amillionthanks.org/. Follow the guidelines on this site and write a letter that will be sent to a current or former soldier.
- More than a 1/3 of veterans have or will experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Veterans of past wars are still dealing with their time in service. Puppies Behind Bars is a program in which prisoners train companion dogs for veterans with PTSD. Donors can sponsor a dog and receive updates on the dog's training and life with its veteran.
- Help build a home for injured veterans. Severely injured veterans often come home needing a place to live that better accommodates their physical abilities. Building Homes for Heroes builds specially modified homes for veterans that help them live independently. These homes are provided at no cost to the veterans. The organization also provides financial planning services.
- Soldier’s Angels is an organization that directly supports the homeless, low income and at-risk veterans and their families. While most veterans utilize their VA benefits, a large number do not. Services include: Food Distribution and Hygiene Kit assembly. Visit https://soldiersangels.org/join-soldiers-angels.html to learn how to get involved.
- Founded in 2002, the Children of Fallen Patriot’s Foundation provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. Find out how you can contribute by visiting: http://www.fallenpatriots.org/
- Many veterans' stories have been left untold, but the Library of Congress is collecting the tales of veterans of every war with Veterans History Project. you are related to a veteran or know one who has a story to tell, the Library of Congress wants to hear it.
- Offer a veteran a ride by volunteering with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), which provides free transportation to men and women unable to travel to VA medical facilities on their own.
- Visit a wounded veteran at the hospital.
- Say, “Thanks.” It's simple, but it can make an impact. And so many veterans have never heard the words "thank you." If you know a veteran or see someone in a military uniform, say something. It may make his or her day and yours.
