Thank you for your service. Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, holds a special place in the heart of our nation. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. These individuals have made significant sacrifices to protect the freedoms and values that we cherish as a nation. As we commemorate Veterans Day, it’s essential to reflect on the importance of this day and the ways we can show our appreciation to veterans.

SAN ANGELO, Texas — Airman 1st Class Jessica Keith, 17th Training Wing, renders a salute as the United States Flag goes by during the San Angelo Veterans Day Parade. Thank you for your service!

The phrase “thank a veteran” embodies the spirit of Veterans Day. It’s a simple yet powerful act of gratitude that can mean a great deal to those who have served. Whether it’s a word of thanks, a wave, or a thumbs up, these small gestures can have a big impact. If you encounter a veteran, perhaps identifiable by a cap or other insignia indicating their service, taking a moment to acknowledge their contribution is a meaningful way to honor their service.

Thank you for your service!  Please, be well!

However, Veterans Day is not just about gratitude. It’s also a time to raise awareness about the challenges many veterans face after their service, particularly concerning mental health. The rate of suicide and mental illness among veterans is alarmingly high. According to a report by the Department of Veterans Affairs, the risk of suicide among U.S. veterans is significantly higher compared to the non-veteran population. This statistic is a sobering reminder of the mental health struggles that many veterans endure.

It’s crucial, therefore, that our support for veterans extends beyond mere words of thanks.

Both of these phone numbers were confirmed on November 10, 2023, and reported to us to be staffed 24/7. Also, one operator suggested dialing 988 for crisis help. To all Vets: Thank you for your service! Please, take good care of yourself.

Active engagement in their well-being is paramount. If you know a veteran, Veterans Day is a perfect opportunity to check in with them. A simple phone call, message, or visit can go a long way in showing them they are not alone and that their service and sacrifices are not forgotten.

Supporting veterans also means advocating for better mental health services and resources. Encouraging public policies and programs that provide comprehensive mental health care and support for veterans is essential. This includes access to counseling, therapy, and medical services tailored to the unique challenges that veterans face.

In conclusion, Veterans Day is a day of honor, reflection, and action. It’s a day to express our gratitude to those who have served and to remember the sacrifices they – and their families – have made. But it’s also a day to acknowledge the ongoing struggles many veterans face and to commit to supporting them in any way we can. By taking the time to thank a veteran and by being mindful of their mental health needs, we can show our true appreciation for their service and contribute to their well-being.

References:

• Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.va.gov
• Mental Health America: https://www.mhanational.org
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org

Thanks to our friend and vendor, Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC for the original idea of recognizing Veterans several times each year, and sharing the recognition.

We share his sentiments:  Happy Veterans Day!  Thank you for your service!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).

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This post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist.  Please feel free to share it with a link back to the original here: https://www.wisx.com/happy-veterans-day-2023-thank-you-for-your-service/  Images courtesy of Wikimedia.