Since the COVID pandemic, veteran unemployment has tripled, and preliminary reports indicate that military suicides have increased by 20 percent compared to the same period last year. In interviews conducted by Dr. Ja’net Bishop (doctor of education, former certified school principal and counselor, and former veteran, herself), Dr. Bishop explores our views of these often forgotten or looked-down-upon veterans. Dr. Bishop reminds us that “We should support these veterans by not dismissing their service. Despite [their current circumstances], there was a time when they set aside their own lives to serve this country and it shouldn’t be forgotten.” This often omitted side of Veteran’s Day may be more difficult to look at, but is nonetheless equally important as we consider additional ways in which we can show our gratitude:
- Sharing Veteran resources and/or promoting organizations: As you consider what to post on your social media this upcoming Veteran’s Day, perhaps including helpful resources and organizations which work to serve Veterans may be more useful than kind words or patriotic pictures.
- Send a Personal Letter to Veterans Serving Abroad: Did you know that you could send a personal letter to a veteran currently serving abroad, someone who may not have the same familial or relational support others are afforded? Follow the first Resource link below to learn how you or a loved one can help provide unique, free support to a veteran or active service member in need.
- If Possible, Make a Donation or Increase Military Discounts: Making a moderate donation to a veteran-assistance program or organization can go a long way. Examples of such organizations are also listed below. Additionally, for small business owners, increasing military discounts (which often only include Active-Duty Military Personnel) to all Veterans who have served is another avenue toward thanking Veterans that is often overlooked.
Hopefully, our suggestions can spark additional ideas on showing gratitude through action. Below, you will find a list of websites and organizations dedicated to helping Veterans and their families, as well as books for adults and for kids touched by military life. You can use these resources for your own information or share with the Veterans and their families in your community.