This is the blog post of Richard Battista, Quincy, about Applebee's dedication to US Veterans and current Service Members. For the past few years, Applebee's has honored Vets and Service Members on Veterans Day with special deals, including free meals. A business like this is bound to be around for a while. People love to see businesses, big and small, supporting a cause - no matter what it is. Richard Battista, Quincy, is a Veteran and is thrilled to feel this type of honor and support.

1. Applebee’s Offers Special
for Veterans Day
By Richard Battista, Quincy

2. In 2011, Applebee’s created a program entitled the
Thank You movement. The movement was
intended to collect messages of appreciation for
the more than twenty four million current and
veteran service members of the nation’s Armed
Forces.

3. Since 2011, the movement’s website has received
over six and a half million personal thank you
messages. The website allows visitors to send a
personal message to either veterans or current
service members; these messages are then posted
in real time to the site.

4. In addition to collecting these messages,
Applebee’s offers a free meal menu for veterans
and current service members on Veteran’s Day in
their establishments.

5. The menu features some of the restaurants
signature items, such as the seven ounce house
sirloin, American standard all-in burger, double
crunch shrimp, three-cheese chicken penne, fiesta
lime chicken, chicken tenders platter and oriental
chicken salad.

6. Traditional sides are included in the offer of the
free meal; however, 2 for $20 appetizers, upgraded
side items or extras, beverages, desserts and
gratuity are not included.

7. To receive the free meal, the individual need only
provide proof of service, in the form of United
States Uniform Services Identification Card,
United States Uniform Services Retired
Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings
Statement, Veterans Organization Card,
photograph in uniform or wearing uniform, DD214,
Citation or Commendation.

8. However, this year, according to an article recently
completed by The Tifton Gazette, the program is
being expanded. Applebee’s is partnering with
communities across the country, in the hopes of
hearing how they can personally help make the
lives of veterans or families of currently serving
military easier.

9. In addition to submitting thank you notes to the
movement’s website, communities can now
provide the personal story of a veteran from the
area. Posters can also include some item that
would make the ease of life for the veteran or the
service member’s family immeasurably easier.

10. Applebee’s will fulfill every one of the demands
made through the website.

11. Steve Layt, Applebee’s President, indicated that he
and his company are very thankful for the men and
women who served to preserve the freedom of the
United States.

12. The entire chain is excited to show its gratitude,
through free meals and the partnership with
communities to improve the daily lives of service
members.