Celebrated on November 11 each year, Veterans Day honors those who served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans risk their lives to defend our nation. While some have died in the line of duty, others are currently facing serious health problems like mesothelioma.
In commemoration of Veterans Day 2022, learn how you can honor our country’s veterans.
Veterans Day 2022 Explained
Veterans Day is a time to celebrate those who made the brave choice to enlist in the U.S. military and defend America.
The holiday’s date coincides with the end of World War I, which formally concluded on November 11, 1918. Unlike Memorial Day — which honors those who have died defending our country — Veterans Day celebrates all living U.S. military members.
On Veterans Day, it’s important to highlight the sacrifices that military service members have made. While many veterans are still with us today, they may be suffering from service-related health problems. This includes mesothelioma, a rare and fatal form of cancer that is caused only by repeated asbestos exposure.
Veterans & Mesothelioma Risks
Between the 1930s and 1980s, the military relied on asbestos for building materials without concern of its dangers. As a result, U.S. veterans currently account for one-third of all mesothelioma cases.
The makers of asbestos-based products intentionally hid the dangers of asbestos in an effort to increase profits. Once the truth was publicly revealed, the U.S. military took steps to remove asbestos from bases, vehicles, and ships, but by then thousands of service members had already been exposed to asbestos dust.
Veterans Day can be a great time to remind veterans with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases that you care about them and are proud of their service.
Honoring Service Members on Veterans Day 2022
Whether a veteran you love has died or is still with us, it’s important to honor the sacrifices that they have made. Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can celebrate Veterans Day this year, from large-scale events to one-on-one activities with veterans you love.
Delve into a few ideas below.
Visit a Veteran
Veterans Day can be a great time to visit the veterans you love. A surprise visit from a relative can make all the difference to a veteran, especially if they are facing mesothelioma or another serious illness. Many companies recognize Veterans Day as a paid holiday, making it a great time to plan a trip.
If you aren’t comfortable making an in-person visit, a phone call or video chat through FaceTime, Skype, Webex, or Zoom can be an effective substitute.
Make a Donation
Donating to a veterans organization or cancer research foundation is a great way to honor a veteran who is no longer with us.
You can make donations to:
- Disabled American Veterans: This nonprofit organization helps veterans access benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), gives them rides to VA hospitals if they live far away, and helps them find jobs.
- Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation: More commonly known as the Meso Foundation, this group aims to find a cure for mesothelioma and support those affected by this rare form of cancer. Some of the world’s top mesothelioma doctors serve on the organization’s board of directors.
- Wounded Warrior Project: This organization supports veterans that served on or after September 11, 2001. With the help of Wounded Warrior Project, veterans can get help accessing VA benefits, find support from others who served, and improve their mental and physical health.
Participate in Veterans Day Events
There are thousands of local and national events planned for Veterans Day this year. Check your local newspaper or veterans organizations to see what activities are scheduled in your area.
Veterans Day is often celebrated with:
- 5K walks and races
- Ceremonies
- Parades
If you live near Arlington, Virginia, consider joining the Veterans Day National Ceremony. The ceremony will take place on November 11, 2022, at 11:00 a.m ET. The event includes laying wreaths on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a parade of colors, a military flyover, and speeches from guests.
Those who are interested in participating in the event but are unable to attend can watch the National Veterans Day Observance Ceremony from Arlington National Cemetery live on YouTube.
Celebrate Those Who Served on Veterans Day 2022
Veterans Day is a reminder that all who served in the U.S. military deserve our respect and praise. Whether you attend an in-person ceremony or simply thank a veteran, make sure you take time out of your day to make them feel celebrated.
Mesothelioma Help for Veterans
On Veterans Day 2022, we humbly thank all U.S. military veterans for their service. The entire Mesothelioma Hope team is proud to help veterans who have developed mesothelioma after serving their country access the military, medical, and financial benefits they deserve.
If you are a veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of your service in the U.S. military, you may be entitled to compensation.
Our Patient Advocates can help you learn more about mesothelioma veterans benefits and assist you in exploring your options.
Contact us or call (866) 608-8933 today — we’re here 24/7 to serve you.
