5 ways students can support our military service members

Serving for our country is such a noble job, and oftentimes it is lonely, too. Our country’s heroes often receive cards and take part in celebrations around Veterans Day or other holidays for the armed forces, but Christmastime and the rest of the year can feel isolated for a veteran or serviceman.

Did you know that you can make a service member (active duty or not) feel special and loved year round? Follow these steps to make their day.

1. Write a letter to a service member. Especially those that are stationed far from home – service members love to receive mail! Your children can even draw pictures for them or make cards. Such a fun way to teach gratitude.
2. Call and visit a local VA nursing home or hospital. Even if visiting is not allowed, a phone call can brighten their day. Teachers: you can have your students send cards or letters, too!
3. Shop at a veteran-owned business. And while you’re out there supporting, talk to them and ask about how they are doing. It is so important to check in and let them know we care.
4. Donate to veteran-focused charities. It is important we support these organizations that take such good care of our service members and vets. If you can’t support them financially, share their mission on social media or with family and friends. 
5. Teachers: schedule a serviceman speaker. This is a double win – students can learn all about the military, and coming into a school can brighten the day of the service member.

What other ways can you think of to make a veteran or serviceman feel special and valued? Let us know at @ArizonaEducator on Twitter or Arizona PBS KIDS on Facebook!

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (5) and Logan (3). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent the past eight years teaching third grade with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.