Showing Gratitude on Veterans Day and All Year Long

On Veterans Day, we are reminded of all the brave people who make sacrifices to serve our nation.

There are many ways to show gratitude to our veterans. You can attend a Veterans Day ceremony or just simply take time to say thank you to veterans you meet in your daily life. The Gratitude Campaign was created to do just that.

This video describes a small way to show your appreciation every day.

Another great way to show gratitude is through Operation Gratitude. This project helps people thank soldiers currently serving in the military. There are many ways to help. You can raise money, provide care packages, write letters, make videos, etc.  This video shows the impact your actions can have on our troops!

One shining example of a school that shows its gratitude is Port Chester Middle School in New York. Last year, a classroom project to collect leftover Halloween candy for soldiers spread to encompass the whole school! What a great way to show their citizenship. The soldiers enjoy the candy and also share it with kids from around the world to build friendship.

In Florida, a boy named Andrew Weinstock is inspired to help collect candy for Operation Gratitude each Halloween season. This year his goal was 2,000 pounds. To learn more about Andrew and his amazing efforts, see the additional resources below.

Attend a Veterans Day ceremony, say thanks to a veteran, or do something more involved like supporting Operation Gratitude! And when you do……know that your actions make a difference for some very deserving people.

Additional Resources:

• Here is another inspiremykids story that highlights Port Chester Middle School and their special efforts.
• Here is an article about Andrew Weinstock and his amazing efforts.

Topics for Discussion:

• Do you know any veterans? Ask them about their experiences in the military!
• Veterans travel to far off lands to help our country. How can you help our country right here at home?

Take Action:

• When you see soldiers, show them your gratitude for their brave service to our country!
• Learn how you can participate in Operation Gratitude by checking out the Operation Gratitude website.

Teacher Features:

• Here is a link to a Critical Reading Skills worksheet that you can use for elementary school students.
• Here is a link to a Critical Reading Skills worksheet that you can use for middle school students.