In the United States, there are over 21 million military veterans, including over 9 million vets aged 65 and over. Since 1966, Memorial Day has been a time to celebrate, honor and remember service members who gave their time, effort and lives to our country. This Memorial Day weekend, honor the veterans in your life by thanking them for their service.
• Spend time with a veteran. If you personally know a veteran, bring him or her dinner or invite him or her to a barbeque to celebrate Memorial Day and honor veterans. If you don’t know a vet, visit a VA hospital or nursing home and spend some time honoring the residents.
• Go to a Memorial Day parade and cheer for young and old veterans! Go as a spectator or volunteer your time to help set up, tear down or manage the event.
• Send a care package to current service members overseas. Pack up much-needed items like toiletries, notebooks and socks, as well as fun treats like candy, snacks, a movie or games. For those with limited time, go through a site like Jollybox (http://www.myjollybox.com/), which will send soldiers monthly pre-made care packages.