#veteransdayis

#VeteransDayIs a social media hashtag campaign, promoted by Wounded Warrior Project.

#VeteransDayIs November 11. 11/11. #VeteransDayIs easy to remember.

#VeteransDayIs easy to forget. It's just another day off work or school. Columbus Day in October, Veterans Day in November, Presidents Day in February. #VeteransDayIs just another reason to get 10% off at the mall. #VeteransDayIs a good time to buy a new mattress, judging by the commercials.

#VeteransDayIs not as widely celebrated as Memorial Day, because Memorial Day is timed better for barbeques and beer. #VeteransDayIs to celebrate everyone who served, not just those who died. It is okay with me if you say "Happy Veterans Day," but please don't ever say "Happy Memorial Day."

#VeteransDayIs sometimes called "Pinch the Veteran Day" in my house. Pinching Karl usually devolves into everyone tickling each other in a big pile. "Pinch the Veteran Day" is often celebrated on other days as well.

#VeteransDayIs something we celebrate. One year we went to a Japanese steak house. Karl wore a Hawaiian shirt and a trench coat. I wore a dress. Most years we go from one restaurant to another, ordering a free meal to go. #VeteransDayIs a time when numerous chain restaurants offer a free meal to veterans. The restaurants are often full to the brim all day with veterans and their families waiting for a free meal. I know several veterans who have never gone for their free meal because the idea of being immersed in the crowd is too daunting for them. Every year I call around and find out whose meals are available dine in or to go and then we get take out for free. I appreciate the restaurants that do free meals dine in only, but we won't be going there.

This year, #VeteransDayIs the day that I finally got free coffee from the Starbucks my husband and I got married in. Starbucks is giving a free tall coffee to not just veterans but also their spouses.

#VeteransDayIs the day I accompany my husband to our children's schools for an assembly. Last year he wore his Class As. This year he did not. This year the assembly included remarks from a veteran. He thanked the spouses, describing our time during deployments sitting by the phone, hopeful and terrified, and I teared up.

#VeteransDayIs often followed by a sleepless night for my husband, who fitfully dozes on the couch while watching war documentaries.

#VeteransDayIs every day in my home.