Not everyone can call themselves a veteran or knows how it feels to serve their country. But for those who have, you’ve officially earned the veteran card. Congrats my friend, you made it!
The so-called “veteran card” does not technically refer to the ID card the Departments of Defense or Veterans Affairs issues to you when you register (although you could also use those). We’re talking about receiving the benefits you deserve when your non-serving compatriots recognize the sacrifices you’ve made for your country and then decide to support you.
If you’re wondering where you can maybe cash in on these earned royalties, then check these out.
1. Dive Bars.
Dive bars, especially those with American flags decorating the walls, are typically not franchised companies and often have a homey feel. These American institutions treat their customers more personally. What better way to be rewarded than with a cold beer on the house?
That’s not a bad idea at all. Don’t make demands, but if they’re offering, pull the veteran card.
2. Mom and Pop Shops
You know the businesses that greet you as soon as you walk in and are usually family-run, right? With roughly 28 million small businesses located throughout the United States, and making up approximately 44 percent of the nation’s payroll, small businesses thrive on repeat local business.
With 22 million veterans still calling America home, keeping them happy and returning is big business for those small shops. If they offer a discount, be sure to pull out the veteran card.
3. The Police
No one is suggesting that you use this as your only line of defense if you catch a case, but it couldn’t hurt. A lot of policemen patrolling the streets are veterans themselves, so finding a little common ground could humanize you in their eyes.
4. Employers
Plaster the fact that you served on your resume. Be sure to include all the juicy key terms like “leadership,” “dedication,” and “goal-oriented.” You may not have earned the Medal of Honor, but most civilians think having a National Defense Medal and a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal sounds pretty badass.
5. Strip Clubs
Here’s a fun fact. Strippers are just like you and me! Except they probably get paid more.
We’re not saying you should go, but a lot of people do, and many of those people are military personnel. In this case, the closer the strip club is to a military base, the better your chances for a military perk will be. Having been all over, I’ve heard you can enjoy discounts on the cover charge, shots and drinks specials, and reserved tables.
WATM author Tim Kirkpatrick entered the Navy in 2007 as a Hospital Corpsman and deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan, with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, in the fall of 2010. Tim now has degrees in both Film Production and Screenwriting.
