Patriotic Ways to Support Veterans 

It’s a great day to be free.  Have you thanked a Veteran today for fighting for your freedom?

There are many ways to offer support to our veterans beyond telling them, "Thank you for your service.”  A few ideas are listed below:

• Host patriotic holiday parties for Veterans, active-duty military and their families.  Invite the entire family to come and join in the fun at your Post.  Host a BBQ or other meal and include patriotic music, games for both children and adults, and fun decorations.
• Partner with other community organizations to reach more people.  The more, the merrier!  Join forces with other organizations in your area (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, mental health agencies, food pantries, etc.) to increase the services you can provide to Veterans, active-duty military and their families.
• Educate youth about what it means to be a patriotic American.  Partner with schools or host special events for youth.  Include age-appropriate lessons and activities.  You will likely not witness the impact of the teachings, but they can make such an impact; those children will remember the lessons and will be proud to walk up to a Veteran and say "thank you.”
• Distribute U.S. Flags and/or present a certificate of recognition to a local business, private citizen and/or youth group for flying the U.S. Flag.  Distribute flags to businesses, community organizations and schools that do not have a flag flying or provide a new flag to those whose flag is tattered.  Present a certificate in recognition to those displaying the U.S. Flag or POW/MIA flag.  They will be honored to be recognized for their American pride.
• Participate in a local parade.  Who doesn’t love a parade? Passing out flags to children, riding on a Post float and marching with the colors are some typical ways to participate. 

Be sure to invite local media to attend these events!  A picture or an article in your local newspaper reminds your community that the VFW continues to support our Veterans and our communities with American patriotic pride.