THANKSGIVING DAY 2024: 7 HEARTFELT WAYS TO EXPRESS THANKS TO OUR VETERANS
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. This time of year, and all year round, it is important to give thanks for the people and things that mean the most to you. Veterans served their country, putting their lives on the line every day. Because they have sacrificed so much for us, it can be difficult to find ways to shown enough appreciation. But don't fret, we've got 7 simple, heartfelt ways to say thank you to the Veterans in your life this Thanksgiving Day 2024. Check them out!
7 Ways to Say Thank You This Thanksgiving Day 2024
1. A Simple Thank-You Will Do
The first, and easiest, thing you can do to show your gratitude is to just say “thank you Veterans.”
A simple thank you can go a long way in showing appreciation for those who fought for our country.
In other words, you don’t need to go all out to show your gratitude this Thanksgiving Day 2024.
2. Share the Gift of Laughter
Thanksgiving is a time for giving and sharing. After all, what is better to share than laughter?
Spend time sharing funny memories, consider playing some fun family games to make family memories, and simply enjoy one another's company. There's nothing that lifts spirits more than a good belly laugh.
Consider browsing social media to find some funny Thanksgiving Day memes, or share a meme that simply says thank you. Memes showing appreciation can really lift spirits around the holiday, adding to a wonderful Thanksgiving Day 2024 experience.
3. Show Your Appreciation Through Some Good Food
If there is one thing Thanksgiving is known for (besides giving thanks), it is the food. Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and more. Besides family and friends, there is so much more to be grateful for during the holiday season. One being able to fill your belly with a warm, delicious meal.
While you are enjoying the festivities, it is important to not forget that there are many Veterans who could use a warm Thanksgiving meal.
So, whether you share that Thanksgiving cocktail with a Veteran family or friend, or help provide a meal to the many homeless Veterans in the world, providing and volunteering in any capacity is appreciated.
4. Christmas Is Not the Only Holiday For Gift Giving
If you want to go above and beyond with your appreciation for Veterans, few will turn down Thanksgiving gifts. I mean, who would ever turn down a gift.
Of course, you don’t have to buy them a yacht to show thanks, but just putting in the time and effort to find or make a gift, basket, or donation to your local Veterans and/or organizations goes a long way in showing your gratitude.
In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, consider giving in any way you can whether that be a monetary donation, or your time.
5. Saying Thanks Doesn’t Always Have to Come With Words
Sometimes, the best way to say thanks is to just listen.
If you have Veteran family members or friends, ask them about stories from their service and listen intently.
Listening to your local Veterans is not only valuable, but shows that you care about what they have to say. After all, what screams “Happy Thanksgiving” more than that?
6. Donate to Veteran Charities
There are a number of wonderful charitable organizations out there that give back to Veterans.
In fact, there are several Veteran organizations across that nation that are doing wonderful things for our nation's Vets, especially during a time when it can be difficult for many to afford necessities such as food, rent, and clothing.
The Mission Continues, the Fisher House Foundation, and K9s for Warriors are just a few charities that are giving back. To learn about more organizations, check out our full list here.
7. Visit a VA Hospital
As another way to volunteer your time, consider visiting your local VA hospital, and interact with patients, volunteering your time.
Consider asking your local VA facilities if they have any events on military holidays or the days leading up to, on, and after Veterans Day. Volunteering your time can be a great way to say "thank you Veterans."
Show Appreciation on Thanksgiving Day 2024 & Everyday
Thanksgiving is a time to show appreciation for the things in your life that you value most. For many, Veterans fall in that category.
While some may not even know how many days there are until Thanksgiving, it is important to give thanks to Veterans regardless. A lot of work goes into protecting our country, so next time you need to think of things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving Day 2024, be sure to keep Veterans in your mind.
Updated by Lauren Piette
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