Veterans Day at Summit Initiative

WHY WE CELEBRATE | Veterans Day is observed each year on November 11th to honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform.

Originally recognized as Armistice Day in 1919, it marked the end of World War I. In 1954, the holiday was officially renamed Veterans Day to honor all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both past and present.

Unlike Memorial Day, which honors the fallen, Veterans Day celebrates the living heroes among us.

What Makes a Veteran

A Veteran is anyone who has served honorably in the U.S. military, whether in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, or Coast Guard. Veterans include combat-deployed soldiers, support personnel, and those who trained during peacetime but still stood ready to defend freedom. Every Veteran’s service carries a story of sacrifice, resilience, and commitment to something greater than themselves.

Why Veterans Day Matters

Honoring Veterans means more than saying “thank you.” It's recognizing the unique challenges they face after service:

  • MENTAL HEALTH | Nearly 1 in 4 post-9/11 Veterans report struggles with PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
  • TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE | Many Veterans struggle with isolation, loss of purpose, and difficulty reintegrating into civilian careers and communities.
  • HOMELESSNESS | Veterans make up about 11% of the homeless population in the U.S. despite being less than 7% of the overall population.
  • SUICIDE CRISIS | On average, 17 Veterans a day die by suicide.

Veterans Day reminds us that freedom isn’t free
and that supporting Veterans requires more than words.

SUMMIT'S RESPONSE | How We Serve Veterans

Veterans Day reminds us that freedom isn’t free
and that supporting Veterans requires more than words.

At Summit Initiative, we believe Veterans deserve more than gratitude...
they deserve authentic community, spiritual renewal, and a place to belong.

THAT'S WHY WE

  • Create Veteran Communities around military bases and cities where Veterans gather for discipleship, shared meals, and support.

  • Offer Experiential Retreats that provide space for healing, connection, and rediscovering purpose.

  • Provide Chaplain & Leader Support so Veterans and their families have spiritual guidance and relational care.

  • Tell Veterans’ Stories through projects like Veteran’s Unknown, amplifying the voices of those often unheard.

This Veterans Day, we invite you to join us in honoring and supporting Veterans,
not just with words, but with action.

SUPPORT VETERANS