There are a few things you need to know about Veterans Day before acknowledging it publicly through your marketing channels.
Anytime we can recognize the individuals who have served our country, we do it. Before you go public, you need to do your research and be sensitive in your wording and delivery.
Follow our advice below.
Don’t do it for the attention.
Many brands will take advantage of a holiday to turn the spotlight on themselves. Absolutely do not do this for Veterans Day; if you want to celebrate National Happy Hour Day (November 12th), then exploit it for all the fake holiday it is (look for our post on Monday).
Be respectful and take the opportunity to educate your audience on Veterans Day; share the origins or statistics on those who have served or are currently serving. Our country has a rich history, with much of it being built on those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
Educate yourself.
Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a time to remember those who gave their lives for our country, particularly in battle or from wounds they suffered in battle. Veterans Day honors all of those who have served the country in war or peace — dead or alive — although it’s largely intended to thank living veterans for their sacrifices.
It is referred to as Veterans Day not Veteran’s Day. The day does not belong to one veteran or multiple veterans, the day honors ALL veterans – so skip the apostrophe.
The wording is also important, do not say “Happy” Veterans Day – use words such as thank you or honor.
The history is important.
Veterans Day used to be “Armistice Day”, which commemorated the end of World War I. But, then World War II and the Korean War happened, so on June 1, 1954, at the urging of veteran service organizations, Congress amended the commemoration by changing the word “armistice” to “veterans” so the day would honor American veterans of all wars.
It is recognized worldwide.
The name may change based on geographic location, but the sentiment is the same. World War I was a multinational effort, so our allies recognize it as well. Australia, Canada and Great Britain call it Remembrance Day and observe in similar ways. Canadians wear a red poppy flower to honor the dead.
Action speaks louder than words.
November 11th is a great reminder that our vets need our support year round.
If you are looking for organizations or businesses to support, we recommend the below.
- Patriot Promise: This organization was started by a veteran, Bob Taylor, to fund gaps in medical and mental health care. Check out his interview with Wood TV 8.
- AM Yoga: AM Yoga has partnered with Community Rebuilders to launch a yoga program for veterans to assist with symptoms of PTSD and other mental health issues.
The partnership will offer veterans free 60-minute yoga classes over the next two years. The classes will be held once a week at various locations, including at the AM Yoga Studio and at Community Rebuilders.
The intention of this program is to improve the health and well-being of veterans through the practice of yoga. Asana, pranayama and drishti are all beneficial ways to raise awareness of problems in health to more clearly define a solution.
Veteran’s classes are Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. at AM Yoga.
These are only a few of the many options out there, please do your research to understand where your donation or time is truly going.
Let us know how you plan to support Veterans on November 11th, share your thoughts below.
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