“They wore the uniform so we could live free — and today, America serves them back with a cup of gratitude and a plate full of thanks.”
As a tribute to veterans and active-duty military personnel, many restaurants keep their doors open and offer special meals on November 11th. This day is known as Veterans Day. Veterans Day has been observed since 1918, originally as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I. In 1954, the U.S. President at the time, Dwight D. Eisenhower, officially changed the name to Veterans Day. This day honors all U.S. military veterans who have served their country—whether during wartime or peacetime.
From Burgers to Breakfast — Here’s What Veterans Get FREE This Veterans Day 2025
On Veterans Day (November 11, 2025), Starbucks is giving away a free tall (12 oz) brewed coffee — hot or iced — to:
- Active-duty U.S. military members
- Military veterans (retired or former service)
- And their spouses
Applebee’s is once again honoring U.S. service members this Veterans Day (November 11, 2025) with a free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu.
This offer is available for dine-in only at participating locations nationwide.
- One complimentary full-size entrée from Applebee’s Veterans Day Menu (choices usually include classics like the Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Tenders Platter, or Three-Cheese Chicken Penne).
- A $5 “Bounce Back” card for your next visit (redeemable on a future dine-in order).
Little Caesars– Grab a free Lunch Combo — four slices of Detroit-style Deep Dish pizza + a 20 oz Pepsi — available 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 11. Just show proof of military service and enjoy!
Buffalo Wild Wings – Veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy 10 free boneless wings and fries, dine-in only. A small way for B-Dubs to say a big “thank you.”
Chili’s Grill & Bar – Chili’s is serving up a free meal from a special Veterans Day menu to all veterans and active military — dine-in only at participating locations.
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) – CPK is offering a free entrée and drink from a select Veterans Day menu, plus a BOGO gift card for your next visit. It’s their way of saying thanks, one slice at a time.
Shake Shack – Veterans and active service members can score a free ShackBurger on November 11. Just present a valid military ID — no purchase needed.
Whataburger – Texas’ favorite burger spot is showing love with a free breakfast taquito and a 16 oz coffee for veterans and active-duty military. Offer valid on Veterans Day and select Tuesdays after.
No coupons. No gimmicks. Just America’s favorite restaurants saying thank you — one free meal at a time. 🇺🇸❤️
“Every burger flipped, every coffee poured, every smile exchanged — it’s not just food. It’s a nation saying: We see you. We thank you. We remember.”
Accepted Proofs of Military Service at counter
Military ID Card — Active duty, reserve, retired, or dependent military identification is perfectly valid.
🪪 Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) — Issued by the VA, this works as solid proof of veteran status.
📄 VA Card or State ID with “Veteran” Designation — Many states now print “Veteran” directly on driver’s licenses or IDs, and Starbucks accepts that too.
🧥 Wearing a Uniform or Service Cap — In some smaller towns, simply showing up in uniform or with a service cap is enough for recognition.
💳 DD214 (Discharge Papers) — This is rarely required, but if a store specifically asks for official proof, this document confirms your service
Because freedom isn’t free — but today, coffee is………..