Free Perks And Discounts For Active And Retired Military Members And Veterans
For active and retired military personnel, veterans, and their families, there is a growing list of free offerings, discounts, and benefits available from a range of organizations, brands, and services. These perks are designed to honor service and provide support to those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. From free meals and museum admissions to airline benefits and lodging offers, these opportunities reflect the gratitude of the nation and the generosity of private and public entities.
This article compiles verified information from several sources to present a detailed overview of the types of free items and discounts available to active and retired military members, including National Guard and Reserve personnel. The information is organized into categories such as travel, dining, recreation, and special events, with eligibility details where available.
Travel and Transportation Benefits
Several airlines and transportation services offer special perks for military members and their families. These benefits can include baggage allowances, priority boarding, and reduced fees.
Spirit Airlines
Active military members can enjoy several perks with Spirit Airlines. These include:
- Two free checked bags
- One free carry-on bag
- Free printing of boarding passes at the airport
- Free seat assignment (subject to availability)
- Free pet travel in the cabin
- Free priority boarding
- Free changes or cancellations without fees
These benefits are available to active military members, providing cost savings and convenience during travel.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air offers similar benefits to veterans, active-duty personnel, and members of the National Guard and Reserves. These include:
- Three free checked bags
- Free oversized baggage allowances
- One free carry-on bag
- Free boarding pass printing at the airport
- Free seat assignment (subject to availability)
- Free pet travel in the cabin
Additionally, active military members receive priority boarding at no cost and are not charged for changes or cancellations.
B&Bs for Vets
B&Bs for Vets provides free lodging to veterans and active military members, particularly around Veteran’s Day. This initiative offers free rooms at participating inns and bed and breakfasts, supporting military families with comfortable and affordable accommodation options.
Dining and Food Offers
Several restaurants and food establishments offer free meals or discounts to military members and their families as a gesture of appreciation.
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee offers a free breakfast buffet to veterans and active-duty military members. This event is typically held in-store and may include additional activities such as entertainment or displays. Some locations may also plan special programs to coincide with the event.
Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel provides a free Crafted Coffee or a slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake to active-duty military members and veterans on Veteran’s Day. This gesture is part of the restaurant’s ongoing efforts to support military families.
Restaurant Offers
While not always advertised, many restaurants offer free meals or discounts to military personnel. These offers are often available on or around Veteran’s Day and may require showing a valid military ID to receive the benefit.
Recreational and Cultural Perks
Military members and their families can enjoy access to a variety of recreational and cultural attractions, including theme parks, museums, and national parks.
National Park Service
Active and retired military members can visit U.S. national parks for free with a valid military ID, Veterans Affairs ID, or state-issued driver’s license. This includes access to over 2,000 historic and scenic sites. Some parks may require reservations, so it is advisable to check individual park requirements in advance.
Museums and Cultural Institutions
Several museums and cultural institutions offer free admission to military members and their families.
- Blue Star Museums provides free admission to over 2,000 museums across the U.S. for active-duty military personnel and their families.
- 9/11 Memorial Museum offers free admission to active and retired military personnel with a valid military ID.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) provides free admission to active military members with a valid ID.
- Portland Art Museum offers free admission to active military personnel and a 20% discount to veterans.
- Bronx Zoo provides free admission to active military personnel and discounted admission to veterans and their families.
These benefits allow military families to explore and enjoy cultural institutions without the usual admission costs.
Theme Parks
Sesame Place, a popular theme park inspired by the Sesame Street franchise, offers special discounts and free access to active military members and veterans. Active military members and up to three dependents receive free single-day admission, while veterans can save 50% on single-day tickets.
Event and Ticket Offers
There are also opportunities for military members and their families to attend events and receive tickets to sports and entertainment events.
Veteran Tickets Foundation
The Veteran Tickets Foundation partners with sports teams, leagues, and event organizers to provide free or discounted tickets to active-duty military, veterans, and their families. A small delivery fee may apply for ticket delivery.
This program allows military families to attend major sporting events and concerts, providing a valuable way to enjoy entertainment while supporting their community.
Additional Perks
Beyond travel, dining, and recreation, there are other unique benefits available to military members and veterans.
Project EverGreen
Project EverGreen’s GreenCare and SnowCare for Troops provides free lawn care and snow removal services to families of deployed military personnel. This initiative helps reduce the burden on military families by offering essential home maintenance services at no cost.
Veterans Advantage
Veterans Advantage is a rewards program designed for active-duty members, retired military personnel, veterans, and their families. The program offers discounts, benefits, and care packages, providing a centralized way to access a variety of military-specific perks.
Conclusion
The U.S. military community, including active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families, has access to a wide range of free and discounted offerings from various brands, organizations, and government entities. These benefits span multiple categories, including travel, dining, recreation, and event access, and are designed to recognize and support the sacrifices made by military service members.
By taking advantage of these offerings, military families can enjoy cost savings, comfort, and appreciation for their service. These benefits are often available year-round, with special events and promotions around Veteran’s Day and other holidays.
Military members are encouraged to inquire about available benefits when visiting stores, restaurants, or cultural institutions. In many cases, simply showing a military ID can unlock a variety of discounts and freebies.
Sources
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