Saying Thank You to a Veteran
When it comes to the US military, expressing gratitude is one of the easiest things you can do. Whether you’re a veteran, a family member or a friend of a soldier, thanking them for their service can be a simple, yet meaningful way to show how much they mean to you. But sometimes, it can be difficult to know how to say it.
Gratitude is important for everyone, but especially when it comes to veterans and active-duty service members, who face physical and emotional challenges every day of their lives. The words you choose can have a direct impact on them, and it’s important to remember that all soldiers are unique individuals with very distinct experiences.
For this reason, it’s crucial to be mindful of how you express your gratitude. According to medical and mental health experts, there are certain words that can have a negative impact on veterans who are dealing with traumas related to their service.
The first step to saying thank you to a veteran is to find out what your connection is. If you’re a military spouse, you should also take time to think about how your relationship has impacted your loved one’s time in the military.
You can also show your appreciation for their time in the military by supporting organizations that support and honor service members. For example, you can donate to military charities or volunteer to help out at a veteran’s center. These organizations can provide a variety of services, including career advice, transition support and other practical assistance.
Sending a gift to your military family is a great way to show your gratitude for their service and to let them know that you care. It’s especially touching if you’re sending it to a family who has recently lost a member of the military.
Purchasing items that commemorate their service is another way to show your appreciation. This could be as simple as a poppy pin or a special flag. If you want to go all out, you can even purchase an official, engraved thank you card.
A handwritten thank you card is a thoughtful and sentimental gift that can be cherished for years to come. Moreover, you can add a personal message to the card that lets them know you truly understand how their service impacts them.
If you are not sure how to say thank you to a soldier, you can also show your support by helping out with a local nonprofit or organization that supports the military community. By volunteering with an organization like the USO, you can thank a veteran in a more hands-on way.
Shake Their Hands
For some generations, shaking their hand is the most respectful way to say thank you. It’s a simple gesture that will make a veteran feel appreciated and will give you the chance to learn more about their story.
Don’t forget to ask if they want to shake your hand first, and then be sure to look them in the eye when you do. This is an extremely important part of showing gratitude and can make a huge difference in their life.
