Applebee’s Offers Special for Veterans Day

By Richard Battista, Quincy

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.