Marine Corps
members live by a code of ethics long after their tour of duty is complete.
Honoring service members is one way to show appreciation for the dedication that they have given to their country, and for their efforts to protect the citizens of the United States. Honoring retired and ex-Marine Corps members can show them that their service and commitment is still recognized. A variety of ways exist to honor a Marine. Using one or all of the methods can help express gratitude that mere words alone cannot. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Talk to a Marine Corps veteran in detail about his service to the United States. Listen attentively and ask questions. Avoid questions about subject matters that the veteran has outlined as being off-limits. Many Marines do not wish to talk about war-time events and duties; respect that right of privacy. Take notes only if the veteran gives you permission to do so. Look at old photographs of the veteran's Marine days.
2. Join The American Legion on behalf of a veteran if he is not currently a member. Gather all information on the programs, events and gatherings regarding the Legion closest to where the veteran lives. Talk to the Marine about becoming an active member and offer to drive him to and from events and venues if he cannot transport himself. Suggest that the Marine veteran volunteer to walk in American Legion parades holding the Marine flag. Repeat all steps with other military organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
3. Nominate the Marine veteran for recognition during national holidays such as Memorial Day. Check local newspapers, publications and American legion branch locations regarding current nominations being accepted to honor veterans. Send all information in a timely manner. Ask permission of the veteran before nominating him for any awards or recognitions.
4. Make a donation on behalf of the Marine veteran to an organization that is important or relevant to him. If the veteran supports causes relating to ex-service members, donate to organizations that support military personnel and their families. Make donations in the name of the veteran and give a card showing that the donation was made in his name.
5. Ask the veteran if he would be willing to talk about his life and experiences with other adults, teenagers and children. If he agrees, send a request to local schools, libraries, organizations and associations offering the Marine veteran as a speaker to discuss his life as a member of the military. Let the Marine know that you are honoring his commitment and dedication by having him teach others about the importance of past experiences.
6. Hang an American flag in honor of the Marine veteran. Place a plaque at the base of the flag stating the veteran's full name, ranking and dates of service. Show the veteran the plaque and explain that its purpose to honor the military service. Have a tree planted in the veteran's name or purchase an honorary brick, block or plaque at any American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars building that sells such honorable mementos.
7. Take the Marine veteran to visit the Marine Corps War Memorial in Washington DC. Offer to take along other veterans and offer to provide transportation to and from the monument. Take the veterans on a tour of the other war memorials located throughout the Washington DC area. Organize a group tour to a Marine base such as Camp Lejeune, where many Marines attended boot camp. Coordinate the trip through the visitation office of the base and invite Marine veterans on the trip as a way to honor them.
Tags: Marine veteran, Marine Corps, American Legion, Corps members, Foreign Wars, honor Marine, members show