Every fall, as Veterans Day approaches, the phrase “thank you for your service” echoes across conversations, social media posts, and public ceremonies. The words are heartfelt, but too often they become more of a reflex than a genuine expression of gratitude. While veterans certainly appreciate recognition, those who have worn the uniform (and members of their family) know that gratitude goes far deeper than a passing phrase. To best thank military members and veterans, we should match our words with action.
Since the attacks of September 11, 2001, less than 1% of the U.S. population has shouldered the responsibility of military service. This small community has carried an outsized share of sacrifice on behalf of the nation. Over the past 2 decades, American Servicemembers have deployed not only to Iraq and Afghanistan, but also to Syria, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and many other regions. Even outside of combat zones, troops have been stationed across Europe, the Pacific, and the Middle East to train, deter adversaries, and strengthen alliances.
These deployments have come at a heavy cost. More than 7,000 American Servicemembers have been killed in post-9/11 wars and related training and deterrence activities. Over 50,000 have been wounded in combat, with many more carrying the invisible wounds of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
For every uniformed member, there are also family members who bear sacrifices of their own—children missing a mom or dad for their birthdays, spouses balancing household responsibilities alone, and parents waiting anxiously for a safe return. Whether a 6-month Navy cruise or a year-long tour in Afghanistan, none are endured by just the Servicemember, but by everyone who loves them.
This November, consider volunteering your time, skills, or resources to Veteran-focused organizations.
Local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion are always seeking community members to help with events, fundraisers, and outreach. Supporting those efforts helps ensure veterans are cared for long after they take off their uniform.
National charities such as the Wounded Warrior Project, Fisher House Foundation, Team Rubicon, and TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) also rely heavily on volunteers and donations. Whether it’s helping to build adaptive housing for wounded veterans, providing meals and lodging for families visiting loved ones in military hospitals, or mentoring children who have lost a parent in service, there are countless ways to make an impact.
Another great way to express gratitude is by supporting military families directly. Long deployments and frequent relocations put enormous stress on spouses and children. If you know a military family in your community, offer to babysit, mow the lawn, or bring over a meal. Small gestures of kindness can ease the burden of separation and show appreciation not just for the Servicemembers, but their loved ones as well.
Schools, churches, and community groups can also play a vital role by creating inclusive environments where military children feel supported despite constant moves or the absence of a parent. These kids often carry quiet resilience, but they also benefit from encouragement, stability, and understanding peers.
Gratitude also means remembering those who never came home and those who returned forever changed.
For many wounded warriors, physical and emotional scars can last a lifetime. Programs that provide service dogs, job training, or mental health care also deserve your support. Even writing a letter to a Veteran in a VA hospital or visiting an elderly Veteran in a nursing home can bring comfort and affirmation that their sacrifices are remembered.
Ultimately, thanking veterans isn’t about grand gestures but about sincere, consistent acts of support. It’s about recognizing that less than 1% of the population has defended the freedoms enjoyed by the other 99%. It’s about understanding that military service isn’t only dangerous in combat but also demanding on the homefront. And, it’s about ensuring that when America’s sons and daughters take off the uniform, they aren’t left to face challenges alone.
This November, let’s go beyond words. On behalf of Navy Federal Credit Union, we urge you to transform gratitude into action, whether by volunteering, donating, or simply showing up for veterans and their families.
Serving those who served is the truest form of appreciation we can offer.
This article was sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union. For more than 90 years, their members have enjoyed membership perks, including great rates, discounts, cash back and helpful guides that explain a variety of financial topics in simple terms.
Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.