How to Thank a Veteran: Real Ways to Show Appreciation

Many people want to express their gratitude to those who’ve served in the military, but they aren’t always sure how to thank a veteran in a meaningful way. A quick “thank you for your service” is common, but there are deeper, more personal, and impactful ways to express your gratitude.

This guide will explore both words and actions that honor the sacrifices veterans have made. Whether you’re looking for ideas on what to say, searching for ways to give back, or wondering how to support veteran organizations directly, we’ll walk you through meaningful options that go beyond the surface.

By the end, you’ll be equipped with thoughtful, real-world examples that not only answer common questions like “How can you thank a veteran?” or “Why should you thank a veteran?” but also show how even small gestures can make a big difference.

Why Should You Thank a Veteran?

Veterans make sacrifices that most of us will never fully understand. They leave their families for months or even years at a time. They endure long deployments, intense training, and often, life in conflict zones. Many carry the weight of physical injuries or invisible wounds like post-traumatic stress long after their service ends.

According to a 2019 study by the Pew Research Center, nearly half of post-9/11 veterans (48%) said it was difficult to transition back to civilian life. That number climbed to 66% for veterans who experienced emotional trauma or were diagnosed with post-traumatic stress. Many of these veterans also reported facing financial instability, social disconnection, and difficulty adjusting to civilian routines.

For those who’ve served, a simple “thank you” can go further than you might think. Whether it’s a few kind words, a thoughtful gesture, or direct support, expressing gratitude helps veterans feel seen, appreciated, and respected. It can be a powerful reminder that their service mattered, and still does.

How Can You Thank a Veteran​

There are many ways to thank a veteran that go beyond a quick comment or social media post. From kind words to tangible acts of support, here are meaningful and respectful ways to show your appreciation:

• Speak a heartfelt thank-you when you meet a veteran
• Send a handwritten card or message
• Support organizations that serve veterans
• Volunteer your time to help veterans in your community
• Share their stories and raise awareness
• Donate old phones to help them stay connected
• Contribute to emergency financial aid programs

Verbal and Written Thanks

Verbal Thanks

One of the most immediate and sincere ways of thanking a veteran for their service is by simply saying it out loud. Whether you’re at a local event, in a checkout line, or talking with a neighbor, a short conversation can leave a lasting impact.

Here are a few meaningful phrases you can say to thank a veteran:

• “Thank you for your service.”
• “I appreciate what you’ve done for our country.”
• “Because of your sacrifice, I enjoy freedoms every day.”
• “You didn’t have to serve, but you chose to. Thank you.”
• “You’ve made a difference. I’m grateful.”
  

Try using these phrases during:

• Veterans Day or Memorial Day observances
• Conversations with friends or family members who served
• Casual encounters with veterans at work, school, or in your neighborhood
  

These verbal messages might seem simple, but for many veterans, hearing genuine appreciation can be incredibly powerful.

Written Thanks

When it comes to thanking a veteran for their service, a written message can leave a deeper, more lasting impression than words spoken in passing. Whether it’s a short note, a formal card, or a thoughtful email, taking the time to put gratitude into writing shows care, reflection, and sincerity.

Many veterans quietly hold onto letters and cards they’ve received. A simple message can be a reminder that their sacrifices are seen and valued, especially on days when they may feel forgotten or disconnected. For veterans who are older, living alone, or facing health challenges, receiving a handwritten note can mean even more.

Writing also gives you the opportunity to personalize your message. You might mention the branch they served in, the years they were active, or something specific they’ve shared with you. Whether you know the veteran personally or not, your words can make a difference.

Some ideas for how to send written thanks include:

• Creating handmade thank-you cards with your kids or classroom
• Mailing letters to local VA hospitals or veteran centers
• Organizing a letter-writing campaign through a school, scout troop, or faith group
• Sending a message to a veteran you know personally on their birthday or Veterans Day
  

Even a short, heartfelt note like “Thank you for your service. I admire your courage” can have a powerful emotional impact.

What to Write in a Thank You Card for a Veteran

If you’re not sure how to start, here are a few respectful examples:

• “Dear Veteran, thank you for your dedication and bravery. Your service has not gone unnoticed.”
• “You protected our freedoms and asked for nothing in return. Please know you are appreciated deeply.”
• “Your commitment and courage inspire me. Thank you for serving our country.”
• “I hope this note brings a smile. Your sacrifices matter, and I’m grateful for you.”
• “Because of your service, my family and I live in peace. Thank you for everything you’ve done.”

Whether you’re a student, teacher, or community member, these words can help you express real gratitude in a way that resonates.

Acts of Support

Words matter, but actions often speak louder. If you’re looking for real ways how to thank a veteran, consider stepping beyond verbal gratitude to provide meaningful, tangible support. Whether through donations, volunteer time, or community participation, these efforts can make a lasting difference in a veteran’s life.

Donate Phones to Help Veterans Stay Connected

Many veterans face financial hardships that make owning a reliable phone difficult. By donating a used device through our phone donation program, you can help veterans stay connected to family, caseworkers, and job opportunities. Every device is refurbished and distributed to those who need it most.

Volunteer to Organize Phone Drives

One phone donation helps, but a phone drive can help dozens. Organizing a community collection through a school, church, or business is a powerful way to multiply your impact. Learn how to volunteer and start your own drive with support from our team.

Become a Drop-Off Site

Want to help on an ongoing basis? Become a drop-off site and give people in your community a local, easy way to support veterans year-round. Drop-off sites are the backbone of our phone collection network.

Contribute to Emergency Financial Aid

Unexpected expenses can derail a veteran’s job search, housing stability, or medical treatment. By contributing to our emergency financial aid program, you’re helping cover phone bills, rent, transportation, and other urgent needs when no one else can.

Help Provide Phones and Service

Through CPFS Mobile, we provide veterans with phones and free wireless plans. Your support helps ensure they never miss a call from a potential employer or VA representative. This is a direct and powerful way to help veterans rebuild their lives.

Attend Veterans Day, Memorial Day, or Flag Day Events

Public appreciation matters. Attending events in your area not only honors service members but also reminds veterans they’re seen and supported. Bring your kids, wave a flag, or simply show up. Your presence helps reinforce a culture of respect.

Refer Veterans to CPFS Mobile

If you know a veteran who is unhoused, struggling financially, or without a working phone, direct them to CPFS Mobile. A phone and service plan can open doors to employment, VA resources, and safety.

Send Care Packages or Donate to Veteran Shelters

Many shelters that serve veterans rely on community donations to provide essentials like toiletries, socks, snacks, and blankets. Sending care packages or coordinating a supply drive can meet urgent needs while showing veterans they’re not alone.

Final Thoughts

Thanking a veteran doesn’t require a grand gesture. Whether you offer a heartfelt word, write a card, or take part in a support program, what matters most is that your appreciation is genuine.

At Cell Phones for Soldiers, we believe that thanking a veteran for their service should be more than a moment; it should be a movement. Through phone donations, volunteer opportunities, and emergency aid, we’ve created simple, powerful ways to support those who’ve served.

If you’ve ever wondered how to thank a veteran, this is your chance. You can make a difference today. Let’s turn appreciation into action.