How Does One Identify a Veteran?
Veterans can be men or women, younger or older, from any branch of the U.S. military service. Be sure to check with local community Veterans’ organizations to find where Veterans gather. If you're looking to reach out to groups of Veterans or learn the best way to help those who live near you, your local community veteran organizations are great places to start. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) groups often have their own halls or buildings that host veteran-focused events or volunteer opportunities. Wounded Warrior Project, Team Red, White & Blue are two organizations often used by younger veterans that might have chapters near you. Visiting or contacting these organizations is where to start for those looking to meet or help local veterans in need.
Be aware of military insignia. Military veterans are often very proud of their service and wear hats, shirts, or jackets that broadcast their affiliation with specific military branches or units. Navy veterans, for example, often wear ball caps that say which ship or boat they served on. If you're hoping to spot a veteran so that you can thank them for their service, keeping your eyes open for related clothing is a great way to find veterans.
Look around for military vehicle tags and stickers. Many states give out special license tags to veterans, while some states have special tags for disabled and non-disabled veterans. Some veterans also put military insignia bumper stickers on their cars. Both license plates and stickers are a way to see whether the person you're parked near or driving behind is a veteran.
What Do You Say to a Veteran on Veterans Day?
Many veterans are tremendously proud of their military service. Simply asking a veteran about their military service is a great way to offer support. Hearing these stories of service can also help you as a non-veteran understand how to better support veterans in your communities.
Here are some good starter questions:
- How long were you in the military?
- What military service were you in?
- Where were you stationed?
- Why did you choose to serve our country?
- How did military service change your life?
- Remember to say “Thank you for your service”
Veterans Day started as a day to reflect upon those who died in our country's service after World War 1. It was originally called Armistice Day. In 1954, the holiday was changed to Veterans Day to recognize Veterans for all wars in which the U.S. was involved.