Don’t thank veterans for their service on Memorial Day

THE FALLEN

Approximately 17-20 veterans died by suicide per day in 2025. Since February 28th thirteen veterans have unfortunately lost their lives, and 380 injured in the first 40 days of Operation Epic Fury. Memorial Day is to remember the fallen. Not thank veterans for their service.

The first article I ever published on LinkedIn before retiring in 2016 was how to not thank a veteran on Memorial Day. Serving as a Navy recruiter for over a decade I oftern heard “Thank you for your service” on Memorial Day. Knowing is half the battle.

This was a statement I heard from numerous citizens of this nation over the course of my years canvassing the streets and high schools in search of the brave women and men to enlist, and serve within the ranks of the United States Navy.

Veterans are now front and center in theatre and on the global stage, again “Boots On Ground.” This year I want you to know the difference between Memorial Day and other holidays like Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day.

This holiday was designed to remember the fallen. Based on world political events it appears many more veterans will pay the ultimate price this year. Not cool. War is a business. I understand the assignment. But at what cost? Keep reading.

The “ASK A VETERAN 5 TIMES” rule for 2026

STRATEGIC PLANNER

In April I was a guest speaker at Military Creator Con. I plan to return with a message in 2027. I need your help here. Each month my new Patreon MCC 2027 membership was designed to inform veterans of current related events.

I wanted the world to know the difference between Memorial Day and other veteran holidays today. It’s important to know when you see you’re next veteran in uniform in the community. Veterans appreciate your support, but remember the fallen first.

Help me get one veteran content creator admission into Military Creator Con 2027 with me next April. When you grab my MCC 2027 membership you will see more veteran related content this sumer exclusively. Let’s expand our networks togehter this summer.

The 2026 NFL season is underway; shift colors

The real WAR with veterans is when they return home from the battlefield. Our biggest WAR is fought between our ears. Asking for help is a sign of courage. Get connected to the VA and defeat the war going on in your mind. I’m living proof the system works.

Bottom line is never thank a living veteran on Memorial Day. Take a trip to your local veteran community memorial and remember the fallen. Say a prayer for those in battle now. Some may never return. The best way to thank a veteran is at their grave on Memorial Day.

“All gave some, some gave all.”

24/7, confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1, chat online, or text 838255.