America’s veterans embody the ideals upon which America was founded.
This year, as usual, all the ceremonies that help Americans live up to such a meaningful date will be carried out. Like every year, it all starts with the ceremony at the Memorial Amphitheater built next to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
But for a few years, along with the established tradition, the 20+million veterans have been honored by the some of the major restaurant chains in the country along with thousands of local diners and other retailers. In 2016 it won’t be different - on November 11th, over 80 chain businesses will be offering free meals to our national heroes as a thankful demonstration of how important they are to all of us.
Here’s a few of the well known brands that are participating:
Applebee’s
Check out this link to learn all about Applebee’s 2016 offers and policies.
IHop
IHop is also honoring veterans with free pancakes.
Chili’s
At Chili’s you’ll have to show proof of military service. Check out all the information including the menu offered here.
Olive Garden
Olive Garden will offer free meals for veterans and for active duty military in 2016. The menu, entree choices, and other instructions are here.
Outback
Outback’s offers include blooming onions and beverage! Check out the details here.
Red Lobster
Red Lobster options include appetizers and dessert but there’s more!. See what they are offering.
TGIF
Free lunch at TGIF for veterans and active duty military! Take a look at their Veterans Day Meal.
If you are a veteran or if you are a friend or relative, there are a few things you can do in order to make sure you are be properly honored and enjoy a superb meal. Call the location you are planning to eat in advance. That will ensure they are participating, and you can also ask other questions like whether you need to show any proof of service.
- Ask if family members (spouse, children) are also eligible. In some places, active duty military are also honored.
- Ask when the free meals are being served. In some places it will be on November 11th only, but in some cases, specific meals are offered all week long.
- Ask what time of the day free meals are being offered. In some places it’s only lunch, or dinner.
- Make sure all locations are participating. Food chains have different policies as far as franchises.
- Ask if purchases are necessary in order to get a free meal. This applies to some businesses.
- Ask what proof of service you need to show. Restaurants may ask for military ID, veterans organization card, or even that you wear a uniform.
- Ask if you need to tip.
Besides free meals, other establishments also offer freebies. And that’s not a few! American businesses in all areas recognize the fundamental role Veterans have in ensuring United States freedom.
Free services and discounts are offered from haircuts to hotels and car washes. You can find a list of offers here or you can look for local deals sorted by state.
So get ready to celebrate and be honored! Taking advantage on these deals is more than deserved. It’s a way to take part in this beautiful celebration of bravery and devotion.
Let us not forget! November 11th is Veterans Day in America. Parades, ceremonies, and tributes are happening all across the country. Let’s thank the men and the women who gave their best to guarantee our freedom.
Don’t forget to share this with the veterans you know!
Share your veteran story or write a Thank You note through our Facebook page.
