Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Millions of people make considerable sacrifices to protect the freedoms of their fellow citizens. According to the Pew Research Center and data from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Census Bureau, there are currently more than 18 million living veterans in the United States.
The term “veteran” refers to a person who served in the active military, naval, air service or space service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. In the U.S., there are actually five types of protected veterans, according to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Under VEVRAA, a veteran may be classified as a disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran, or Armed Forces service medal veteran.
Veterans deserve respect and admiration all year long, but also get their own holiday each November. Veterans Day celebrates veterans’ patriotism and willingness to sacrifice and serve. This Veterans Day, people can consider these eight unique ways to honor the veterans in their community.
1. Attend a local Veterans Day event. In Monticello, you can join in on the free Veterans Day Breakfast hosted by American Legion Post 49, located at 1065 S. Water St. Doors open at 8 a.m., breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m. and at 9:10 a.m. Col. George C. Goller II will speak about his 34-year military career. You can also see the display of tribute banners honoring local veterans around the Jefferson County Courthouse, now through Thanksgiving weekend. This project of the Monticello chapter of Rotary International, pays tribute to veterans who have connections to Jefferson County. Take time to come to town, park your car and walk the circle to see each one up close. Finally, Veterans Day is a great time to visit the “Boots” Thomas Memorial. Monticello is the hometown and resting place for World War II hero Ernest “Boots” Thomas. On Feb. 23, 1945, Thomas led his Marine brothers-in-arms to raise the first American flag on Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima, Japan. The “Boots” Thomas Memorial is an eight foot high structure on the north side of Washington Street, west of the Court House near the Big Bend Transit office. A relief sculpture on the monument depicts the flag raising, and a bronze plaque at its base records the history of the event.
2. Get involved with veterans’ affairs. Support veterans by volunteering with organizations that assist them, such as the VA, local veteran’s groups, VA hospitals, or charities dedicated to veteran services.
3. Petition for veteran speakers. Reach out to schools, scout troops or other groups and arrange opportunities for veterans to share their stories and contributions. Learning about the sacrifices these men and women made can heighten individuals’ appreciation for veterans.
4. Support the families of veterans. Reach out to veterans’ families, who also must make sacrifices and concessions. Anything from shopping, babysitting, doing chores or making a meal can help the families of veterans.
5. Make a donation. If finances allow, make contributions to reputable charities that provide services for veterans like those that offer mental health counseling or job placement services. If there isn’t a charity that fits with your vision, begin one. (See the separate listing of donation opportunities.)
6. Hire veterans to work. If you are a business owner or hiring manager, consider hiring veterans for open positions at your company. It can be challenging to re-enter the workforce after service, so make it known that your firm welcomes veterans.
7. Offer personal acknowledgements. Take the time to speak to veterans and thank them for their service. If possible, when dining out, ask the server if you can pay for the meal of a veteran who also is dining that day. Arrange to interview a veteran; then write about their story and submit it to your local newspaper for publication.
8. Don’t forget the fallen veterans. Although Memorial Day is designed to honor those who lost their lives through military service, people still can honor the fallen veterans on Veterans Day by sharing stories or placing flags at veteran cemeteries.
Veterans Day is celebrated on Nov. 11, marking an opportunity to express one’s gratitude and support for the scores of veterans who have served honorably.