Veterans deserve ‘national moment of gratitude’ on Veterans Day to help heal ‘unseen wounds’

Veterans Day is a time to honor and show appreciation for the brave men and women who have served our country. While saying “thank you for your service” is a common sentiment, USAA is encouraging Americans to go beyond just words and make a meaningful connection with veterans this year.

USAA, a company that serves millions of military members, veterans, and their families, is calling for a “national moment of gratitude” on Veterans Day. The company’s “Go Beyond Thanks” campaign aims to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians by encouraging genuine connections.

Matt Shifrin, a U.S. Army veteran and executive director at USAA, emphasized the importance of reaching out to veterans in the community. He suggested asking veterans about their service and listening to their stories. By engaging in conversations and showing genuine interest, we can create a supportive connection with those who have served our country.

In addition to personal interactions, USAA recommends visiting local American Legion or VFW posts, dropping by VA hospitals, or attending veterans events. These small gestures can make a big difference in showing appreciation for our nation’s veterans.

Bob LaBrutta, a retired Air Force Major General and vice president at USAA, highlighted the need for Americans to take the time to thank veterans for their service. By looking out for our “battle buddies” and making sure they are okay, we can continue to support and honor those who have sacrificed for our freedom.

As part of the campaign, USAA has also partnered with Face the Fight, a coalition focused on raising awareness and support for veteran and military suicide prevention. By coming together as a community, we can provide a network of support for those who have served our country.

This Veterans Day, let’s go beyond just saying “thank you” and make a meaningful connection with the veterans in our lives. Whether it’s through a conversation, a visit, or a simple gesture of gratitude, we can show our appreciation for the sacrifices they have made. Let’s come together as a nation to honor and support our veterans in a truly meaningful way.