Veterans Day 2019 saw a wide array of businesses across the United States offering free meals, discounts, and special experiences to honour military veterans and active-duty personnel. The promotions ranged from complimentary food at national restaurant chains to discounts on retail goods and unique local activities. While the majority of these offers targeted veterans and active military members, some businesses extended similar courtesies to first responders, recognising their service as well. Participation typically required proof of military service, such as a military ID, DD-214 form, or wearing a uniform, and many offers were valid only on Veterans Day, November 11, 2019. It was noted that not all locations of participating chains were required to take part in the promotions, so checking with the nearest location was recommended. Most offers were valid only on Veterans Day, November 11, 2019, unless otherwise specified. Some businesses, such as Giordano's, The Greene Turtle, and HMSHost, offered ongoing military discounts beyond the holiday.
Veterans Day 2019 Restaurant Freebies and Meal Deals
A significant portion of Veterans Day promotions centred on complimentary meals and food discounts. National and regional restaurant chains offered veterans and active-duty military personnel a variety of free menu items, often from a special Veterans Day menu. Veterans and military personnel should keep in mind that most businesses require proof of military service, which can include a Veterans Administration Universal Access Card, Military I.D., DD-214 (discharge papers), Veterans Service Organization Card (VSO’s include groups like the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion) or, in some cases, businesses will accept a picture of the veteran in uniform. Veterans are encouraged to read the offers carefully as some discounts are offered in the days before Veterans Day or may extend past Veterans Day and run for a specific period of time.
National Chain Offers - Applebee’s: Provided a free meal to all veterans and active military members from a special Veterans Day menu. This offer was valid for dine-in only and required proof of military service. - BJ’s Brewhouse: Offered a free entree up to $14.95 in value and a free Dr Pepper beverage at any BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse location nationwide. - 151 Coffee: Invited military personnel to bring their family for free drinks on November 11. - 54th Street Grill: Veterans and active-duty military received a free entree up to $12 on November 11. - Ahipoki: Veterans and active-duty military received 50% off any bowl at all locations across Arizona and California on November 11. - Another Broken Egg Cafe: Veterans and active-duty service members could enjoy a free Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee on November 11. - Aspen Creek Grill: Veterans and active-duty military received a complimentary meal from a special menu from 11 a.m. on November 11.
National Parks and Federal Lands Free Admission
On Veterans Day, national parks, national forests and other federal lands that charge entry fees were free. Monday’s free admission also applied to sites overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, Army Corps of Engineers and wildlife refuges run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Also, on Veterans Day, admission to National Parks is FREE for everyone, whether or not you are a veteran or active military member. Free admission is to all national parks, memorials and historic sites on Veteran’s Day, November 11, including Mt. Rushmore and the Statue of Liberty.
General Guidelines and Recommendations for Veterans Day Offers
Proper identification is crucial for accessing these deals. Veterans and military personnel should keep in mind that most businesses require proof of military service, which can include a Veterans Administration Universal Access Card, Military I.D., DD-214 (discharge papers), Veterans Service Organization Card (VSO’s include groups like the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion) or, in some cases, businesses will accept a picture of the veteran in uniform. Remember to bring proof of service as most will require this however some may go on the honour system.
It is always best to call ahead first to verify your particular location to make sure they are participating. We also strongly recommend calling restaurants ahead to see if you are able to make a reservation as those that take them book up very quickly. Some offers are on Veterans Day, November 11, while others are on a day surrounding Veterans Day. Some deals are available for veterans only, while others are valid for both veterans and active military personnel, and some deals are valid the day before or day after Veterans Day. Proof of military status is required for most offers, so if you are not in uniform, be prepared to show an ID verifying your service. Participation may vary, so be sure to check with your local restaurant to confirm that they’ll be offering the Veterans Day special. Unless otherwise specified, the Veterans Day deals are on Nov. 11 only. Beverage and gratuity not included. Although most locations participate, not all do, so call your local franchise and ask about requirements.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2019 featured a broad spectrum of freebies and deals from restaurants, retailers, and local businesses across the country. The promotions primarily honoured military veterans and active-duty personnel, with a notable inclusion of first responders at certain establishments. Offers ranged from complimentary meals at major chains to discounts on retail goods and unique local experiences. Access to these deals was contingent upon providing valid proof of military service, and participation often varied by location. The event served as a widespread gesture of appreciation from the business community to those who have served.