10 Ways to Thank Our Military Service Members This Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving

Each November, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving offer civilians reminders to be thankful for former and current members of our military — and opportunities to express that appreciation. From small gestures to more substantial acts of gratitude, there are many ways to say "thank you" and offer support to those who have served and continue to serve. Below is a list of meaningful ways to express your thankfulness, making the November holidays special for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

1. Send a Care Package to Deployed Soldiers

Deployed military personnel often face long periods away from home and their loved ones. You can support our troops by sending care packages filled with essentials like toiletries, snacks, and entertainment items. These can make a positive difference in their morale and be an impactful form of military thanks. Consider including letters of appreciation, homemade treats, or items that will remind them of home. 

2. Express Your Gratitude in Person or in Writing

If you have the opportunity to speak with a current or former member of the military in person, you can alway use the popular simple phrase “thank you for your military service.” Writing sincere letters of appreciation is a powerful way of thanking a veteran or active duty service member as well. Various organizations make it easy to do this with helpful guidelines and specialized thank you for your service military cards.

3. Offer a Meal or Host a Gathering

Inviting veterans and active duty military members to a Thanksgiving meal (or any meal) is a thoughtful gesture that emphasizes community and inclusion. You can invite them into your home for a traditional holiday feast or organize a local event in collaboration with veteran service organizations. Sharing food and conversation fosters connections and can be an important reminder that they are appreciated by those they protect.

4. Attend or Participate in a Veterans Day Event

Across the country, Veterans Day parades, ceremonies, and events are held to honor military service members. Attending these events not only shows your support, but also allows you to engage with veterans and military families directly. Some cities also host Veteran’s Day fun runs or charity events where you can participate, helping to raise money for veteran support organizations.

5. Offer Discounts or Services

Many businesses extend special offers or discounts to veterans and active duty personnel on Veterans Day and throughout the year. If you’re a business owner, consider doing the same as a matter of transparent policy. Additionally, volunteering your professional or business skills can also provide important support to military families who can benefit from them.

6. Donate Frequent Flyer Miles

A creative and cost-free way to help members of the armed forces is by donating your frequent flyer miles. Many military families struggle with the cost of travel, especially when troops are stationed far from home. By donating your unused miles to programs such as the Hero Miles Program through the Fisher House Foundation, you can help service members and their families stay connected during difficult deployments.

7. Volunteer With a Military Support Organization

Many nonprofit organizations provide vital services to veterans, active duty military members, and their families. Volunteering your time with these organizations can be a direct and impactful way to show gratitude. Some organizations, like the USO, offer opportunities to volunteer at airports or military bases, while others, like Wounded Warrior Project, need assistance with events or fundraising efforts.

8. Help a Veteran in Your Community

Simple, everyday gestures can go a long way. Offering to help with yard work, running errands, or providing a ride to a veteran in your neighborhood shows them that you care. These small acts of kindness can make daily life easier and show your appreciation for their service. Many veterans, especially older ones, may not ask for help, but your proactive kindness can make a real difference.

9. Support Military Families

Supporting the families of service members is just as important as supporting the troops themselves. Military spouses and children often face unique challenges, especially during deployments or long periods of separation. Offering to babysit, help with household tasks, or simply spending time with them can lighten their load. 

10. Donate to Organizations That Support Service Members and Veterans

If you’d like to maximize your impact and share your thanks with more military members,  consider donating to nonprofit organizations that support veterans and active duty military members. These organizations provide critical resources, such as healthcare or healthcare coverage assistance, mental health services, financial assistance, and military scholarships for college. Nonprofits are skilled at making every dollar count and using funds where they are most needed, so you know your gift will be used wisely.

This Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving, take the time to show appreciation to veterans and active duty military members however you are able. Each gesture, big or small, contributes to a culture of gratitude and respect for the men and women who protect our freedoms.

Support Our Military Service Members With MC-LEF

Since its creation in 1995, the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation (MC-LEF) has offered educational funding to the children of fallen military service members. Thanks to our generous donors, MC-LEF currently establishes a $35,000 educational account for every child who loses a parent serving on active duty as a federal law enforcement agent, a member of the United States Marine Corps, or a Navy Corpsman. To date, MC-LEF has awarded over $93 million in educational accounts and other humanitarian assistance to over 5,900 recipients. Contact us to learn more!

All MC-LEF officers and board members are volunteers; we have only one paid employee. We pride ourselves on running our organization as cost-effectively as possible so that the vast majority of our donor funds can be used to accomplish our mission of educating the children of those who sacrificed all. Please consider donating today!