Do You Say Happy Veterans Day to Someone Still Serving?
As the annual Veterans Day celebration approaches, many people may be pondering the etiquette of thanking and honoring those who are currently serving in the military. Should we still express appreciation and gratitude on November 11th, even for those who are actively engaged in their military careers?
Direct Answer: It’s Complicated
A straightforward answer is: it depends. Yes, you can say "happy Veterans Day" to someone still serving, but you should consider their perspective, feelings, and personal relationship with you. Showing appreciation for their service at any time of the year is always appreciated. However, specially on Veterans Day, being mindful of their ongoing responsibilities and potential emotional reactions is crucial.
Understanding the Role of Veterans Day
Prior to exploring the specific protocol for honoring currently serving personnel, it’s essential to understand the significance of Veterans Day. This national holiday is dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of American military veterans, who have proudly served and defended their country. November 11th marks the end of World War I, which provided the impetus for a day of commemoration in the United States.
Honoring Those Who Have Served
When it comes to honoring veterans who have left the military, saying "happy Veterans Day" or expressing gratitude is widely considered appropriate. These individuals have completed their military service, and the day is primarily focused on recognizing their dedicated service and the contributions they made.
But What About Those Still Serving?
The scenario is quite different for those currently engaged in military service. As mentioned earlier, their primary focus is on ongoing duty, and they might find it challenging to reconcile personal feelings about Veterans Day when they are still in service. Their daily battles are far from over.
Considering Their Emotional State
Some people currently serving might:
- Feel frustrated or even demoralized due to the ongoing conflicts and seemingly endless deployments
- Be anxious or concerned about their safety or that of their comrades
- Struggle with deployments, injuries, or even PTSD and its resulting emotional toll
- Feel a sense of accomplishment and pride for the work they’re doing and the sacrifices they make, but still need acknowledgement for their service
Inclusive Language: Alternative Approaches
To acknowledge someone still serving, you might consider alternative expressions or dates:
- National Deployment Recognition Day (NDDR): Held annually in June, this observance specifically honors active-duty troops and their families
- Thank You to Servicemembers Week (TYSW): A week-long event celebrating the contributions of American forces, usually in late January or early February
- Every Day Appreciation: Express gratitude throughout the year, rather than being tied to a specific day
Key Considerations
When interacting with currently serving personnel on Veterans Day:
- Avoid condescending or paternalistic messages, which might imply your understanding of their experience surpasses theirs
- Show appreciation for their efforts, but acknowledge their service is ongoing
- Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid creating discomfort
- If someone objects to your message or thanks, respect their decision and avoid pressure to communicate
A Suggestion: A Hybrid Approach
To balance inclusivity with sensitivity, you could phrase your message like this: "I want to recognize and thank all of your hard work and dedication. Whether you’re currently serving or have served in the past, your commitment is invaluable to our nation and its people."
Remember: Gratitude and Recognition Matter
While acknowledging individuals still serving requires consideration for their unique circumstances, gratitude and recognition still matter. A sincere word of appreciation can make a significant difference in someone’s day, whether they’ve completed their service or not.
Table: Suggestions for Honoring Those Who Are Still Serving
| Alternative Approaches | Important Considerations |
|---|---|
| NDDR (June) | Avoid condescending or paternalistic messages |
| TYSW (Jan-Feb) | Show appreciation, but acknowledge ongoing service |
| Every Day Appreciation | Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid creating discomfort |
| Personalized Recognition | Respect their decision to decline recognition, if chosen |
Conclusion
Honoring those who are still serving on Veterans Day is nuanced and requires sensitivity to their ongoing experiences. While gratitude and recognition are essential for all veterans, those actively serving might have specific expectations and emotions to consider. By being aware of the complexities and adopting an empathetic approach, we can ensure that our messages bring comfort and appreciation, while also respecting the individuals currently serving their country. Remember, gratitude knows no bounds, and every day is an opportunity to thank a veteran, whether past, present, or future.
