by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: November 11, 2009

Veterans Day is a holiday that is especially important in communities that have a large concentration of military personnel. It doesn't matter whether they are active duty, veterans, retired military personnel, members of the Reserves or the National Guard; the community rallies around these people to show their support for what they do or have done in the past, and to honor the sacrifices made by those who are no longer with us.

All over the country, businesses large and small, and in particular, businesses with large franchises take advantage of the opportunity to show their appreciation for the members of our Armed Forces.

Here are some of the current free and substantially discounted offers for veterans, retired or active duty military personnel. For most of these offers, it is necessary to show a U.S. Uniformed Services Identification Card, a U.S. Uniformed Services Retired Identification card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES,) or a card from a Veterans organization such as the American Legion or the VFW.

*APPLEBEES RESTAURANTS -

On November 11, Veterans can order one of six free meals at Applebees. the choices include:

1. A 7 ounce steak
2. A bacon burger
3. A chicken tenders platter
4. Oriental chicken salad
5. Lime chicken
6. Three cheese penne

*OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE RESTAURANTS -

At participating Outback Steakhouse restaurants, veterans can get a free blooming onion and a beverage. The offer also applies to all active duty military personnel.

*GOLDEN CORRAL -

On Monday November 16, 2009 from 5 PM to 9 PM, Golden Corral Restaurants will serve free meals to veterans, retirees, active duty military personnel, members of the Reserves and members of the National Guard. These restaurants are packed from the moment the offer begins, so if you intend to visit one of these restaurants, you would be wise to arrive long in advance. Parking is a big issue.

*KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS-

On Veterans Day, Krispy Kreme is offering free donuts for veterans and military personnel. With proper identification, each member of the military will be allowed to choose one free donut of any flavor.

*UNO GRILLE CHICAGO-

Active duty, retired military personnel and veterans can enjoy a free personal pizza or entree with the purchase of another personal pizza or entree of equal or greater value. Show up in uniform or show your military ID and the offer will be honored.

*MASALA WOK -

Masala Wok restaurants in Northern Virginia (near Washington D.C.) are offering a free entree to Veterans

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