5 Things You Can Do To Honor Veterans

November 11th is always a special day in the heart of all Americans as we honor and celebrate all veterans on Veterans Day. We salute the men and women who have sacrificed their time, blood, sweat, and even their very lives for the freedoms we enjoy.

Members of the U.S. military today will be our nation's veterans tomorrow. On Veterans Day, the United Service Organizations (USO) is asking Americans to take five actions to honor the service and sacrifice of all those who have worn the uniform.

My father, father-in-law and grandfather are all Veterans and have served our country in uniform even in battle. In Tuscaloosa, thousands of veterans have given of themselves to help us stay free. The Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center is always alive with veterans who are there to receive top-notch treatment, visit friends, and visit the PX or base exchange.

 "Veterans Day is a time for Americans to pause and give thanks to those who have served and are currently serving in this nation's Armed Forces," said USO Chief Operating Officer Alan Reyes, who also serves as a rear admiral in the U.S. Navy Reserve. "The USO has been by the side of our military and their families for nearly 80 years, and on this special day, we ask that Americans join us in supporting them in their service to our country."

Here are 5 things you can do to celebrate veterans today (and every day!):

1. Volunteer to drive veterans to appointments at Veterans Affairs hospitals in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and nationwide.

2. Volunteer at your local VA hospital. Call the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center for more information at 205-554-2000.

3. Help veterans with various needs such as grocery shopping, paying bills, running errands, cutting grass and doing yard work.

4. Find shelters for homeless veterans in our community by contacting the Salvation Army and other area shelters. No vet should be homeless in our community.

5. Show them love through visits, connecting with other local veterans, giving to local veterans organizations such as the VFW and attending veterans ceremonies.

Remember today's military personnel are our future veterans! Celebrate them and our current vets and those who are no longer with us! Happy Veteran's Day!