How to Honor Veterans Anyday
In 1947, Veterans Day (first known as Armistice Day) was created to commemorate the World War I armistice between the Allies and Germany that went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. But did you know Newport News has celebrated Veterans Day from the very beginning? The World War I troops that inspired Veterans Day returned home via the naval ports of Newport News. And for over two years following the war, half a million returning soldiers marched in parades under the Victory Arch at 25th Street and West Avenue.
So while the nation has a day of celebration, at The Chesapeake, we believe it’s important to celebrate veterans every day of the year. This article will discuss ways you can say “thank you” to the women and men in uniform on Veterans Day and all year long.
Honoring the veterans in your life.
- Donate to a veterans fund: If you’re looking for an impactful way to honor veterans, consider donating to a charity that works directly with them. There are many great organizations both locally and nationally that serve this deserving population.
- Visit a memorial: There are two great places in Newport News to quietly reflect on your own service or the service of a friend or family member:
- Victory Arch at 25th Street and West Avenue was originally built in 1919 and was reconstructed to preserve its historic significance in 1962. Through donations from the American Legion, an eternal flame was added on Memorial Day in 1969.
- Virginia War Museum at 9285 Warwick Boulevard features an outstanding collection of personal artifacts, weapons, vehicles, uniforms, posters and more from 1775 to the present.
- Thank a veteran: Whether it’s a family member or an active-duty military member you pass on the street, take time to thank them for their service.
- Listen to their stories: Some veterans may be hesitant to speak about their time in the military, but if your loved one has stories to tell, listen. You might even consider asking for permission to record their stories so you can share them with future generations.
- Old glory: You can hang a flag in front of your home to celebrate Veterans Day and honor veterans. Be sure to follow appropriate flag etiquette.
- Visit local veterans: A community center or veterans group near you may have special activities planned throughout the year. Ask if you can volunteer to help with an event. You also might want to ask if you can bring your children/grandchildren so they can learn more about our nation’s military branches and history.
- Vote: There is no better way to honor the freedoms our military has fought for than to vote in local, state and national elections. Then be sure to thank a veteran who fought to preserve your right to select your leaders.
Honoring veterans today and every day.
At The Chesapeake, one of the ways we thank and celebrate veterans every day for their service and the freedoms we enjoy is through our Veteran’s Honor Benefit. It provides an exceptional monetary thank-you on the cottage or apartment of choice for veterans and their spouses. Our goal is to make it easier for them to join our senior living community and start enjoying our wide array of services and amenities.
To learn more about the independence our lifestyle offers, contact us here. One of our retirement community counselors will be in touch with you soon.