It can be hard to imagine how to show members of the U.S. military appreciation for all they do. After all, how do you truly thank someone who is willing to sacrifice everything for your freedom?
As National Military Appreciation Month begins, and COVID restrictions ease, there are plenty of celebrations, parades, and services to attend in support of our soldiers…but other, more personalized gestures, no matter how seemingly small, and can go a long way.
As a company born to serve our brave service men and women, we’re pleased to share these eight simple, yet sincere, ways you can show your appreciation during this special month:
- Creating care packages. Do you know family or a friend, neighbor, or member of your community serving our country overseas? A care package with some of their favorite items from home is an amazing way to send them your love and appreciation. Consider favorite snacks, magazines, photos, games, gum, and other treats that they can enjoy during deployment. If you don’t know someone specifically, you can still surprise a service member with a care package through more than a dozen vetted organizations.
- Volunteering for veterans. By working with a Local Veterans Assistant Program, you can help run errands, do yard work, complete home repairs, and more. Volunteers also are needed and appreciated in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities.
- Helping a military spouse. Because military families move frequently, they often find that family and friends are far away when they need support the most. If you know a military spouse in your community, ask where they might benefit from an extra hand. Helping to taxi kids to activities one night a week, providing a simple meal, or pitching in with chores, is a great way to show gratitude and support.
- Sending cards. We have so many ways to communicate today that sometimes the simple art of writing a card or letter can be forgotten. Taking the time to choose an appropriate card and share your thanks with someone you know in the military is truly an unexpected and appreciated surprise.
- Flying the flag. Simple and effective, flying the flag shows your patriotism and support to our nation and military. Just be sure to fly it correctly!
- Donating to a military charity. There are countless charities to choose from that support active military, veterans, and military families. Depending on the organization, your donation can cover education, financial stability, rehabilitation, adapted homes, service dogs, and more.
- Paying your respects. Take the time to stop at a military cemetery or memorial to honor and remember those who served our nation. Many military cemeteries also need volunteers for tasks like regular cleanup and maintenance or placing flags on veterans’ graves.
- Saying thank you. Just say thank you! It’s that simple. If you know someone in the military or see someone in uniform, take the time to thank them for their service. That recognition can mean more than you know.
How do you show a bit of extra gratitude during National Military Appreciation Month? Find us on social and comment with your own ideas or find some extra inspiration from our incredible community. And from IHG® Army Hotels, thank you!
