When my husband joined the United States Coast Guard, I didn’t think I would ever have to hear the words, “I am deploying overseas,” leave through his lips but unfortunately, they did and he did. Before we became a military family, I was not aware just how much our service members sacrifice to protect our country. They miss graduations, anniversaries, and even their own children’s births. While some may not make it home, others do, and they also deserve our gratitude.

All veterans will accept people thanking them for their services but if you want to take it a step further and brighten up someone’s day, here are six ways to really thank a Veteran this year.

Pick up their bill.

Some restaurants will offer a special menu for veterans, but they are normally limited to specific meals. You can offer to pay for a vet’s meal of their choosing. Personally, I would try to wave down their waiter and pay because I have noticed vets are more reluctant to accept this kind gesture. My husband gets shy about being thanked for his service and tries to remain low key so sometimes being discreet is appreciated.

Donate to vets.

You can visit Help-A-Hero, which assists homeless vets, and Project Help, which focuses on financially aiding veterans and their families transition from military to civilian life. The awesome thing about these two organizations is they are both located in New Jersey.

Offer services free of charge.

While there is a VA facility in East Orange, NJ (VA New Jersey Health Care System) where they normally accept volunteers, due to COVID-19, they have halted their volunteer program for the time being. If you cannot volunteer, try offering your services to older or disabled veterans around their home. Your free help will be welcomed.

Shop at local veteran-owned businesses.

Fit Lifestyle Box is a monthly subscription when you want some extra motivation for a healthier lifestyle including work out challenges, supplements, and healthy snacks. If you are in southern New Jersey, check out Shore Toyota for new vehicle or parts. Shore Toyota is a veteran-owned business and offer military rebates. Military families know the struggles that come with finding trust worthy daycares and preschools, and that is why The Wonder Years Academy was created. Wonder Years Academy offers preschool and childcare services that you can trust that will meet your needs. Fido Fidelis is a dog training facility that not only offers in home training but as well as board and train programs. All these companies are in New Jersey.

Hire a veteran.

If you are looking for someone who has impeccable leaderships skills, can perform undress pressure, and can deliver a job well done within the guided protocols, a vet will be your best bet. They are trained and experienced in fields that can be transferred to any task at hand.

Visit them.

Veterans are like walking movies: they have amazing stories to tell. Some of their stories will make you laugh; others will make you cry but they are all meaningful to that vet who is willing to share beautiful and heartbreaking moments in their lives.