It’s Veterans Day, and some people don’t know how to celebrate outside of hitting sales at their favorite stores or flying a flag. Military.com offers some great tips on how easy it is to get into the celebration today, and every day of the year!

1. Show up!
Auburn, WA Veterans Day Parade
Attend a Veterans Day parade. Our neighbors in Auburn, WA hold the biggest and longest running Verterans Day Parade on the west coast. This year marked the 51st annual parade. As Roy Roger’s once quoted, “We can’t all be heroes; someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by.” A parade in our Veterans’ honor is a great opportunity to do just that.

2. Donate

There are so many ways to donate to a Veteran Program, the oppotunities are endless! Check some ideas out from military.com for easy and secure ways to donate.

3. Fly our nation’s flag

Did you know there is a proper way to fly our stars and stripes? Check out the official guidlines here.

4. Ask someone about their service

It gives the vet a chance to reflect on their time in the service and all of us a chance to learn about it. Many vets won’t go into too much detail so just simply be supportive without being intrusive. Sometimes you don’t have to say anything, just listen and give them your full attention.

5. Write

A simple note of thanks and appreciation goes a long way. If you don’t know a veteran, look up the closest military installation and send one there. Small acts of recognizing someone’s service, even anonymously, are appreciated.

6. Don’t confuse today with Memorial Day

Veterans Day is a time to thank those who are serving or have served and are still with us. Memorial Day is to reflect and remember those who lost their lives in service to their country. Confusing the two or combining the two diminishes the importance of both.

7. Visit a VA Hospital
dnews POWLuncheon
Many VA facilities have a day packed with events. Spending time with a veteran or even volunteering is a great way to give back.

8. Get outdoors with a Veteran!

Did you know that all of our National Parks offer FREE admission today? Being outside helps improve physical and mental health, boosts emotional well-being, and is a great way to celebrate the day with a veteran. National parks are America’s Best Idea, and there are more than 400 parks available to everyone, every day. The fee-free days provide a great opportunity to visit a new place or an old favorite. Plan your visit and enjoy our country’s history and nature.

Thank you to all our Veterans and Active duty service members. Wishing you all a very happy Veterans Day.

Photo Credits:
northwestmilitary.com
military.com
artcphotos/Shutterstock
LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKNEWS
Operation Gratitude Blog
Laura Seitz, Deseret News
Forrestbro/Getty Images