Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor those who have bravely served our country, preserving the freedoms we cherish through tremendous sacrifices. If you’re unsure how to celebrate and commemorate our nation’s heroes this Veterans Day, we’ve put together a list of various ways to show your support for our local veterans. From special events to meaningful gestures, discover how you can join in recognizing and appreciating our veterans.
What Is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed annually on November 11 to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. While Memorial Day is dedicated to those who lost their lives in services, Veterans Day celebrates both living and deceased veterans.
The History of Veterans Day
Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the armistice agreement that ended World War I. This armistice was signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. In 1954, Armistice Day was officially renamed Veterans Day to honor American veterans of all wars.
Veterans Day Appreciation: Commemorative Actions
Honoring our veterans doesn’t have to be complex. Even a small gesture can go a long way in showing appreciation. Here are a few meaningful actions anyone can take to recognize veterans.
Reach Out
Perhaps the easiest thing you can do to show respect for current and former military members is to take the initiative and reach out. Whether it’s a phone call, lunch, or even a letter, letting them know they’re remembered and appreciated can make all the difference. Veterans Day is about showing appreciation, and sometimes, just being there to listen is the most impactful gesture.
Fly the Flag
The American flag is a tremendous symbol of both freedom and sacrifice. Veterans Day is a great occasion to proudly display the red, white, and blue. It honors the contributions our military members have made and serves as a reminder that our freedoms have been hard-earned by those in our local communities.
Make a Donation
Even if you don’t know any veterans personally, consider donating to organizations that support them. National nonprofits like the Wounded Warrior Project or local groups such as the Delray Beach American Legion Post are great options. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference.
Moment of Silence
In 2016, the Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act was signed into law, encouraging Americans to pause for two minutes of silence at 2:11 p.m. EST on November 11. This shared moment across the nation honors the sacrifices made by veterans.
Veterans Day Events at Harbour’s Edge
At Harbour’s Edge, we work hard to ensure our veterans are celebrated and appreciated. There are several events in the community and surrounding Delray Beach area to recognize their contributions to our country. These are some of the ways you can show your support in person.
Golf Cart Parade
Our annual golf cart parade at Harbour’s Edge brings residents together to decorate and celebrate. With themes like military tanks and planes, the parade begins at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, accompanied by a marching band and a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Delray Beach Fire Department.
Veterans Day Brunch
After the golf cart parade, Harbour’s Edge residents are invited to a special commemorative brunch featuring military-themed décor and notes from local school children thanking veterans for their service. A video tribute created by family members and team members adds a personal touch, sharing memories and words of gratitude.
Veterans Day Displays
Throughout Veterans Week, Harbour’s Edge honors its resident veterans with a unique display—a large poster of each veteran holding a photo from their time in service, accompanied by a personal history scrapbook. These displays serve as a lasting tribute and are shared with family, friends, and the community.
Local Veterans Day Events in Delray Beach
In addition to all the events happening at Harbour’s Edge, many surrounding cities have their own parades and ceremonies to honor local veterans. Delray Beach hosts a Veterans Day parade at Veterans Park each year, typically held on the morning of November 11. Additionally, many local businesses offer special promotions or free meals to veterans on this day. It’s a great way to extend your appreciation and get involved in the broader community.
Honor Veterans Day Virtually
With virtual events becoming more common in our everyday lives, there are a number of ways to connect with veterans and make them feel appreciated, even if you can’t be together in person. Here are a few ideas.
Video Call & Email
Though the modern virtual world makes us more connected in theory, it can also leave many feeling isolated. Something as simple as seeing a familiar smiling face or receiving unexpected words of encouragement can go a long way. If you can’t connect in person, use the options at your disposal to remind the veterans in your life that they’re appreciated.
Remember the History
As time passes, it becomes easier to forget the details of the sacrifices made by our country’s military members. Veterans Day is a good opportunity to remind yourself of the history that allows us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.
Virtual Visits
Many military branches, including the Navy and Air Force, offer virtual tours of their National Museums. This can be a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for everything our veterans have experienced and accomplished.
Helping Veterans Year-Round
Showing support for our veterans shouldn’t be limited to just one day a year. There are many ways to give back to those who have given so much to our country. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Reach out to veterans’ organizations in your community and find out how to volunteer your time or resources.
- Consider donating to charities that support veterans’ causes, such as the Wounded Warrior Project or the Gary Sinise Foundation.
- If you know a veteran, offer to help them with errands, yard work, or other tasks that may be difficult for them to manage on their own.
- Simply take the time to listen to veterans’ stories and thank them for their service.
Every gesture, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of our veterans.
Harbour’s Edge – An Oasis for Seniors and Senior Veterans
Harbour’s Edge is firmly committed to recognizing and celebrating our veterans. Our focus is on enriching the lives of residents with top-notch hospitality and comprehensive plans for wellness. If you or a loved one would like to learn more about the community at Harbour’s Edge, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and our friendly team will gladly answer any questions you may have.