Veteran’s Day. One of the few holidays where we can say thank you to the men and women in uniform who protected our country. For me, this holiday means more than any other, and it means a little more to me than to other people.
I was born a Navy brat, and I’m pretty sure I was born with sea-legs too. I remember going to work with my dad, and feeling like the coolest kid in the world because I could say that my dad saved the world. Military service is engraved in my family lineage, and it’s always going to be a part of my life.
But how in the world do I say thank you to the men and women in my life who risked their lives for my freedom?
I look up to my dad a lot. He’s given me so much advice in these short 20 years of life. He taught me how to ride my bike, how to hold my breath under water, how to draw, and how to (somewhat) manage my finances… I’m still working on that one. For a man that’s given me so much, I’ve given him so little in return. But I credit my successes to everything that my parents have taught me, and I know I can make them proud
So here is how we can all give back to those veterans in our lives, and to those veterans that we don’t know, but deserve much more than recognition.
The best way that you can give back is by donating your time or money to a Veteran’s organization.
Personally, the American Legion has done a ton for me. When I was in high school, I had the opportunity to go to Girl’s State, and after that they set me up with an internship with the legislature. Both experiences were so rewarding.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars is an organization that my family is very supportive of. We have had the opportunity to be in parades with them and go to amazing Christmas parties.
Finally, the US Department of Veterans Affairs is a great organization that provides health care and other benefits to veterans. I would always go with my orchestra group during Christmas time and play for the veterans and staff, and it was always a rewarding experiences.
Sponsor a dog for Puppies Behind Bars. This program allows inmates to train dogs for veterans with PTSD.
Lastly, say thank you. It means the world to veterans, because it shows how much you support your veterans, troops, and country.
For those service members or prior service members reading this, thank you so much for your service, and Happy Veteran’s Day from Her Campus Wyoming.