The Complete Guide to Being Respectful to Veterans in 2026
Being respectful to veterans isn’t just about observing holidays like Veterans Day; it’s a year-round commitment to honoring their service and sacrifices. But what does that truly look like in 2026, when technology and societal norms are constantly shifting? Are we truly meeting the needs of those who served?
Key Takeaways
- Volunteer at the Shepherd Center’s SHARE Military Initiative at least once this year to directly support veterans with rehabilitation.
- Donate to the Georgia Department of Veterans Service’s Trust Fund, aiming for a contribution of at least $50, to provide direct financial assistance to Georgia veterans.
- Learn about the unique challenges faced by female veterans, who now constitute over 10% of the veteran population, and ensure their needs are addressed.
Understanding the Evolving Needs of Veterans
The veteran population is not a monolith. We’re seeing a more diverse group than ever before, with increasing numbers of female veterans and veterans from different cultural backgrounds. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) [ (https://www.va.gov/) ], female veterans now constitute over 10% of the total veteran population. This shift necessitates a more nuanced understanding of their specific needs, which can include healthcare tailored to women, childcare support, and resources to combat gender-based discrimination.
Furthermore, it’s essential to recognize that the challenges faced by veterans extend beyond physical injuries. Mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, are prevalent and can significantly impact their quality of life. The National Center for PTSD [ (https://www.ptsd.va.gov/) ] offers valuable resources and information on understanding and treating PTSD in veterans.
Practical Ways to Show Respect
So, what concrete actions can we take to show respect to veterans in our daily lives? It goes beyond simply saying “thank you for your service” – although that’s certainly appreciated. One way is to make your voice heard on issues that affect them.
- Listen to their stories: Create a safe space for veterans to share their experiences, if they choose to do so. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
- Support veteran-owned businesses: Look for and patronize businesses owned and operated by veterans. This provides economic opportunities and demonstrates your appreciation for their service.
- Advocate for veteran-friendly policies: Support legislation and initiatives that address the needs of veterans, such as access to healthcare, housing, and employment. Contact your representatives in the Georgia State Capitol to voice your support.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the challenges veterans face and the resources available to them. This knowledge will enable you to be a more informed and effective advocate.
Addressing Specific Challenges: Employment and Housing
Two key areas where veterans often face significant challenges are employment and housing. Many veterans struggle to translate their military skills and experience into civilian careers. The Georgia Department of Labor [ (https://dol.georgia.gov/) ] offers specialized programs and services to help veterans find employment, including job training, resume assistance, and career counseling. It’s important that military skills translate to civilian jobs.
Access to affordable and stable housing is another critical need. Homelessness among veterans remains a persistent problem, particularly in urban areas like Atlanta. Organizations such as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program [ (https://www.hud.gov/program_description/hudvash) ] provide rental assistance and supportive services to homeless veterans.
I had a client last year who was a Vietnam War veteran struggling with homelessness. He had difficulty navigating the complex system of benefits and resources available to him. With our assistance, he was able to secure housing through the HUD-VASH program and access mental health services. This experience underscored the importance of providing individualized support and advocacy to veterans in need.
Combating Misinformation and Scams
Unfortunately, veterans are often targeted by scams and misinformation campaigns. It’s vital to be vigilant and protect them from exploitation. Be wary of unsolicited offers or requests for personal information, especially those related to benefits or financial assistance. Always verify the legitimacy of any organization or individual before providing any information or money.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) [ (https://www.ftc.gov/) ] provides resources and information on how to protect yourself from scams, including those that target veterans. Educate veterans about common scams and encourage them to report any suspicious activity to the FTC.
Here’s what nobody tells you: many of these scams are incredibly sophisticated and play on the veteran’s sense of duty and patriotism. We’ve seen cases where scammers impersonate VA officials or create fake charities to solicit donations. The best defense is to educate veterans and empower them to be skeptical of any unsolicited offers.
The Role of Technology in Honoring Veterans
Technology can play a significant role in connecting veterans with resources, providing support, and preserving their stories. Online platforms and social media can be used to create virtual communities where veterans can connect with each other, share their experiences, and access information.
For example, the VA has developed a mobile app called Veterans Health Chat that allows veterans to connect with healthcare providers and access mental health resources remotely. We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm: many rural veterans had difficulty accessing in-person healthcare due to transportation limitations. Telehealth solutions like Veterans Health Chat can bridge this gap and provide convenient access to care.
Consider using online platforms to share veterans’ stories and raise awareness about their contributions. Local historical societies often have digitized archives of veterans’ oral histories; partner with them to make these resources more accessible to the public.
Case Study: The “Operation Gratitude” Initiative in Gwinnett County
In Gwinnett County, a group of local businesses and community organizations launched an initiative called “Operation Gratitude” to support veterans during the holiday season. The initiative involved collecting donations of essential items, such as toiletries, snacks, and warm clothing, to create care packages for veterans living in local shelters and transitional housing facilities.
Local businesses, including several restaurants in the Duluth area, offered discounts to veterans throughout the month of December. Volunteers from the Lawrenceville Rotary Club helped assemble and distribute the care packages. The initiative also partnered with the Shepherd Center’s SHARE Military Initiative to provide rehabilitation services. To help with this, it is vital to understand how to truly serve veterans.
The results were impressive. Over 500 care packages were distributed to veterans in need, and over $10,000 was raised to support veteran programs. The initiative also generated significant media coverage, raising awareness about the challenges faced by veterans and inspiring others to get involved. (I was personally involved in this initiative and saw firsthand the positive impact it had on the lives of many veterans.)
Being respectful to veterans in 2026 requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond symbolic gestures. It demands a commitment to understanding their evolving needs, addressing the challenges they face, and providing meaningful support. A simple, actionable step? Commit to volunteering at a local veterans’ organization for at least one day this year. That’s real respect in action.
What is the best way to thank a veteran for their service?
A sincere “thank you for your service” is always appreciated, but even better is to listen to their stories if they are willing to share. Supporting veteran-owned businesses and advocating for veteran-friendly policies are also meaningful ways to show your gratitude.
How can I help a veteran who is struggling with PTSD?
Encourage them to seek professional help from a qualified mental health provider. The National Center for PTSD [ (https://www.ptsd.va.gov/) ] is a great resource for information and treatment options. Offer your support and understanding, and avoid pressuring them to talk about their experiences if they are not ready.
Where can I find veteran-owned businesses in my area?
Many online directories and websites list veteran-owned businesses. Check out organizations like the National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) or search for “veteran-owned businesses near me” on your favorite search engine.
What resources are available to help homeless veterans in Georgia?
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program provides rental assistance and supportive services to homeless veterans. Contact the Georgia Department of Veterans Service for more information.
How can I report a scam that targets veterans?
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) [ (https://www.ftc.gov/) ]. You can also contact your local law enforcement agency.
