The dos and don'ts of Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a time to honor the people who have served in the United States Armed Forces and show our appreciation for their sacrifices. But when it comes to acknowledging and observing this day, it's important to strike the right balance. Whether you're chatting with veterans, working alongside them, or simply reflecting on the significance of the day, there are some important dos and don'ts of Veterans Day to keep in mind. Here's a guide to help you express your gratitude with sincerity, respect, and understanding.

What is Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is often misunderstood and confused with Memorial Day, but each holiday serves a distinct purpose. While Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who lost their lives in service, Veterans Day highlights the courage and dedication of all living veterans who served honorably in the military.

Established in 1919 and originally known as Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I. It wasn't until 1954 that the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to recognize the contributions of veterans from all wars. This day is a reminder to thank and support everyone who has served our country in times of conflict and peace.

The dos and don'ts of Veterans Day etiquette

Taking the time to understand the meaning behind Veterans Day and approaching it with thoughtfulness can help you interact with veterans sincerely and respectfully. Reference this quick guide for an overview of the dos and don'ts of Veterans Day:

Dos on Veterans Day

Here are some thoughtful gestures to observe Veterans Day:

Attend a Veterans Day event. Support local parades or ceremonies to show your gratitude.
Support veteran-owned businesses. Seek out businesses owned by veterans and choose to shop or dine there.
Donate to veteran-focused charities. Organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project or Fisher House Foundation use contributions to provide support services.
Say “Thank you for your service.” This simple phrase can mean a lot. Show appreciation for their commitment and willingness to serve.
Listen to their stories (if they're willing to share). If veterans feel comfortable talking about their experiences, listen actively and thank them for their openness.

Don'ts on Veterans Day

Understanding what not to do on Veterans Day is equally important to avoid accidentally offending the people who have served our country. Here's a list of things to refrain from doing:

Don't say “Happy Veterans Day.” While well-meaning, some veterans may find this phrase trivializes the gravity of their service.
Avoid asking, “Did you kill anyone?” It's deeply insensitive and intrusive. Instead, focus on their positive experiences and what service means to them.
Don't assume all veterans have the same experiences. Every veteran's story is unique. Avoid stereotypes, and ask respectful questions instead.
Don't use the day to push a political agenda. Veterans Day is about honoring the people who served, not about politics.
Avoid using the day for personal gain. Hosting a Veterans Day sale to boost business? Think twice. If it's not genuinely honoring veterans, it can come off as exploitative.

"Whether you're expressing gratitude through words, actions, or anonymous support, it's important to approach this day with the respect and thoughtfulness it deserves."

What to say on Veterans Day

When it comes to Veterans Day, words matter. While a simple “Thank you” is a good start, consider going further with more thoughtful expressions of gratitude. Sincerely acknowledging their contributions can make your appreciation feel more personal and genuine. Some examples include:

“Thank you for your service and dedication to our country.”
“Your sacrifices have helped protect our freedoms, and I'm grateful for your service.”
“I appreciate the time you took to serve, and I want you to know it hasn't gone unnoticed.”

If you know a veteran personally, tailoring your message to include something specific about their service can make it even more impactful. The key is to be sincere and avoid clichés that can feel hollow.

How to show gratitude without saying a word

Sometimes, actions speak louder than words. Here are some nonverbal ways to show your appreciation on Veterans Day:

Wear a poppy or patriotic pin. A small gesture signals your respect for veterans.
Fly the American flag. Follow proper flag etiquette to show reverence.
Attend a moment of silence. Many communities host moments of silence to honor veterans. Participate and encourage others to do the same.
Pay for a veteran's meal or coffee anonymously. This small act of kindness can make a big impact.
Create a space for reflection. Light a candle, set up a memorial, or organize a small community gathering to honor veterans.

Ways to honor veterans year-round

Looking to show your appreciation throughout the year? Here are some ways to honor the people who have served our country beyond Veterans Day:

Write a letter or send a care package. A handwritten note or care package can brighten a veteran's day, especially for those in retirement homes or living far from family.
Volunteer your time. Many veterans’ organizations, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs or the American Legion, are always looking for volunteers to support their programs.
Support veterans in your community. Offer to help with household tasks or run errands for an elderly or disabled veteran.
Promote veteran-friendly policies. Advocate for policies that benefit veterans, such as mental health support or employment initiatives.

Frequently asked questions about Veterans Day

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Veterans Day to make sure you have all the information you need to observe it respectfully.

Is it okay to say, “Happy Veterans Day”?

The phrase “Happy Veterans Day” can feel a bit off-putting to some veterans, as it's not a celebratory holiday like Independence Day. Instead, try saying, “Thank you for your service,” or, “I hope you're doing well today,” to keep the focus on appreciation and respect.

How can I honor veterans if I don't know any personally?

There are plenty of ways to show your support. Attend a local Veterans Day event, donate to a veteran-focused charity, or volunteer at organizations that support veterans. You can also send a handwritten letter to a veteran or support veteran-owned businesses in your area.

What's the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

Veterans Day honors all veterans who served in the U.S. military, whether in peacetime or wartime. Memorial Day, on the other hand, is specifically meant to remember and honor the people who lost their lives while serving in the Armed Forces.

Are stores and businesses open on Veterans Day?

Yes, many businesses remain open on Veterans Day, though some may have special hours or offer discounts to veterans. It's always a good idea to call ahead. Federal offices are typically closed, but state and local governments may have different policies.

Why is Veterans Day celebrated on November 11th?

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11th to mark the end of World War I, which officially ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The day was originally called Armistice Day to commemorate the truce but was later changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all U.S. veterans.

Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor the people who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country's freedoms. Whether you're expressing gratitude through words, actions, or anonymous support, it's important to approach this day with the respect and thoughtfulness it deserves. Take the time to genuinely thank veterans, listen to their stories, and offer your support. It means more than you know.

And if you're looking for ways to give back or connect with veteran-focused organizations, consider creating a CareerBuilder profile. Whether you're exploring new career opportunities or seeking part-time volunteer work to support your community, CareerBuilder can help you connect with employers and nonprofits dedicated to making a positive impact.