10 ways to thank a veteran for their service

Almost every time someone discovers I'm an Army veteran they will inevitably, at some point in the conversation, say, "Thank you for your service". 

I admit, I prefer thanks to chants of "baby killer" and accusations of being the tool of a fascist government.  

But all too often it's easy to see that the phrase is just a "feel-good" reaction, lacking any emotion or sincerity. It's as hollow as the "God bless America" that ends every political speech by every U.S. politician that has ever mounted a podium. 

My advice, as a veteran, is this: stop saying "Thank you for your service" or any similar trite, politically popular bullshit. 

You sincerely want to thank a veteran? Here are ten things (there are many more) you can do that will make every veteran's sacrifice and service worthwhile.

• Vote
• Defend and protect your family, friends, neighbors and children
• Get involved in social projects that help less fortunate Americans: Provide jobs to the unemployed, provide shelter to the homeless and food to the starving 
• Get your news from journalists, not commentators and entertainers
• Champion honesty, compassion, empathy and generosity
• Promote justice and the equal treatment of all Americans
• Take care of our country; don't litter or waste resources
• Don't give away your Constitutional rights for political expediency 
• Understand we must work together to solve national issues
• Realize that everyone who contributes to bettering our society is just as worthy of thanks as any veteran

In short, thank a veteran by working to improve the life of every American citizen, including yours. The American people are who we fought to defend and protect.