Veterans Day, observed on November 11th, is a time to honor and thank those who have served in the U.S. military. But what about the veterans who work within your organization? Do you know who they are, and are you showing them the appreciation and support they deserve throughout the year?
Identifying veterans in your workplace can sometimes be challenging, as many may not openly share their military backgrounds. However, by starting a conversation now, you can begin to gather that information and prepare to recognize them in meaningful ways for Veterans Day.
Who Are the Veterans in the Workplace?
While some veterans proudly wear their service on their sleeves, others may choose not to disclose their background due to personal reasons like privacy or trauma. If you want to properly recognize your veteran employees, you’ll first need to identify them. The best approach is to respectfully ask about their service, without prying into details they may not wish to share.
How to Recognize Veterans in Your Workplace on Veterans Day
Once you’ve identified the veterans in your workplace, there are many meaningful ways to honor their service. Here are a few ideas:
1. Veterans Day Bulletin Board or Wall of Honor
Ask veteran employees to share photos, stories, or memorabilia from their time in service, and create a bulletin board or wall to display these. Invite colleagues to add thankyou notes or messages of appreciation, then unveil the display at a special event.
2. Create a Veterans Day Video or Podcast
Feature interviews with your veteran employees, highlighting their service and contributions to your organization. Share this content on your website, social media, or internal communication channels to inspire your team and community.
3. Host a Veterans Day Breakfast or Lunch
Provide a meal and invite your veteran employees to stand and be recognized. This can be a simple yet impactful gesture of appreciation. Some veterans may prefer to remain seated, and that’s okay too—respect their comfort levels.
4. Feature Them on Your Website, Newsletter, or Social Media
Highlight your veteran employees on your external and internal platforms. Share their stories, accomplishments, or the work they do within your organization.
5. Give a Gift Bag of Custom Branded Goods
Offer your veteran employees a thoughtful gift bag filled with items that show your appreciation. We offer an amazing selection of customizable products from apparel and bags to drinkware, and everything in between. In addition to our huge selection of products, MSP Design Group is the only authorized national screen printer of Multicam®, we take pride in offering a variety of customizable, high-quality products that help organizations like yours honor veterans. For more give ideas check out our Trending Gift Selections and Corporate Snack Selections LookBooks.
Below are some great ideas for celebrating the vets in your organization:
Retractable Flashlight and Lantern
This retractable lantern uses 3 strips of energy efficient COB lights to deliver effective illumination. Measuring 5.5" x 3.75" x 3.5", this lantern also features a powerful flashlight as its base. The movable rubber handle allows easy carrying and hanging. With your custom logo printed on the side, this combination lantern and flashlight is ideal for everyday and emergency use.
Gildan Adult DryBlend® Fleece Crew
9 oz., 50% USA cotton, 50% polyester; DryBlend® Wicking Performance; Pill-resistant air jet yarn; Made with 50% sustainably and fairly grown USA cotton; Double-needle stitching throughout; Transitioning to a grey tear-away label. Inventory may be mixed.; 1x1 ribbed collar, cuffs and waistband with spandex; Tear away label; Gildan's manufacturing process utilizes 45% renewable energy; Gildan's Community Investment Program supports education, the environment, humanitarian aid and active living in the communities we do business in.
In Stock Stars and Stripes Knit Cap with Cuff
Celebrate the Stars and Stripes Forever with these cool and colorful caps with a patriotic motif! Made of knit acrylic, these stretchy caps feature a design with four stars and vertical stripes. The wide cuff gives you multiple wearing options. A great match for July 4th, Flag Day, Memorial Day, veteran's events, parades, rallies and more. Available in three color schemes. Proudly made in the USA from imported yarn. A portion of the proceeds from this knit goes to Camp Hope, a military retreat for wounded vets, so every purchase supports our honored veterans.
Rover Copper Vacuum Insulated Camp Mug 14oz
Warm up the campfire ambiance while drinking your tea or coffee with this classic camp cup. Durable, double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation, which allows your beverage to stay cold for 24 hours and hot for at least 6 hours. The construction also prevents condensation on the outside of the piece. On-trend, durable powder coating. 14oz.
Patriot™ USA Made Non-Woven Tote - Screen Print
Need affordable non-woven bags without overseas transit times? This new 100 GSM non-woven tote is proudly made and stocked in the USA. It is constructed of 20% recycled post-industrial polypropylene. Choose from five colors. It features 1 1/4" wide x 19" long handles, an embossed "Made in USA" handle, and our embossed logo handle patch.
Camo Cap
Made from cotton/polyester canvas, the camo cap is a perfect promotional giveaway! Features of this structured, pro mid crown, flag woven label on visor and back arch and tuck strap with slide closure. This one-size-fits-most headgear is sold blank or with embroidery of your logo to build brand awareness for your next event. Stitch count is 14,297.
6. Recognition Awards and Programs for Veterans
To go above and beyond, you can also create recognition awards and programs that benefit your veteran employees:
Veteran of the year award
You can select one veteran employee who has demonstrated outstanding performance, leadership, or innovation in your organization. You can present this award at a company-wide event or meeting, and give the recipient a plaque, a certificate, or a gift card.
Veteran service award
You can recognize veteran employees who have reached certain milestones in their tenure with your organization. You can present this award at a departmental event or meeting, and give the recipients a pin, a medal, or a trophy.
Veteran appreciation award
You can appreciate veteran employees who have gone above and beyond their duties, helped their colleagues, or supported your mission and values. You can present this award at a team event or meeting, and give the recipients a thank-you note, a card, or a token.
Veteran mentoring program
You can pair up veteran employees with senior leaders or managers who can provide them with guidance, feedback, and support. You can also pair up new veteran hires with veteran mentors who can help them with their transition and integration.
Veteran development program
You can offer veteran employee’s opportunities to enhance their skills, knowledge, and career prospects. You can also provide them with scholarships, tuition assistance, or certification courses for their professional growth.
Veteran wellness program
You can promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of your veteran employees. You can also provide them with access to health care services, counseling services, or wellness resources for their personal health.
Veterans are not only heroes who have served our country but also valuable assets to your organization. By taking the time to identify and honor them, you create a more inclusive and appreciative workplace.
As Veterans Day approaches, take the initiative to recognize your veteran employees and show them the appreciation they deserve—not just on November 11th but throughout the year.
