Every year, we roll out the red carpet to thank veterans for their service — and sacrifice — to our country.

Businesses offer discounts and special recognition. We hold parades complete with marching bands and others eager to share in the special moment. We even designate a “veteran of the year” to serve as the parade grand marshal.

It’s easy to remember to thank a veteran on Nov. 11.

What’s harder to do is to thank and appreciate veterans the other 364 days of the year. When the fanfare of their special day has passed, it’s easy to forget about recognizing their service, understanding their challenges and showing consistent support for ongoing needs.

Veterans don’t stop being veterans on Nov. 12. Their needs don’t disappear.

According to data collected by Statista, nearly 3 million U.S. veterans have a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher. The U.S. Veterans Affairs uses the rating system to determine which benefits veterans qualify for. At 70%, veterans qualify for monthly disability compensation, priority VA healthcare services, education and employment support, and other benefits.

Another 31% of U.S. veterans struggling with mental health conditions — such as PTSD, major depressive episodes and generalized anxiety — are not receiving the care they need to cope with the lasting trauma of wartime service, according to data from the VA.

So, how can we make sure veterans are supported 365 days a year?

First, don’t limit thanking them for their service to Veterans Day. Any time you see a veteran in your community, offer a warm greeting and genuine thanks for their service.

Second, be prepared to listen. Take time to learn about the issues they face — housing, healthcare, job placement — and then ask how you can support them.

Third, volunteer your time at a VA facility, food bank or community meal program serving veterans. You can connect with local veteran service organizations like It’s About the Warrior Foundation, Disabled American Veterans — Butler, Clarion, Mercer Counties and Butler County Veterans in Need.

Another way you can offer practical help is by driving a veteran to an appointment or helping with errands. Even simply checking on a veteran neighbor or friend can make a big difference in their day. Encourage your friends and family to do the same, especially young children, who can learn the value of taking care of our nation’s veterans.

The best way to honor our veterans is to make sure they never feel forgotten once the parades end and the flags come down. Their service deserves more than a day of recognition. It deserves our gratitude, compassion and support every day of the year.

— SB