This Veterans Day, November 11, 2011 or 11.11.11 - our country once again honors and thanks the military for their service in upholding, protecting and fighting for our democracy. Facebook released new services to support and salute these men and women for their courage, dedication and sacrifice.
Technology has provided a means for military members to stay in touch with family during long deployments and time apart. A military network has slowly grown into a strong community offering support and guidance.
- US Military on Facebook was launched earlier this week and has amassed over 14,000 fans with numbers growing. The fan page hopes to support members of the military as well as veterans and their families by sharing information and staying connected.
- A new application on the U.S. Military on Facebook page was created to give thanks to military personnel in your life. "A Nation Gives Thanks" currently has 17,566 total thanks. Sharing with users a list of friends that are connected to the military and allowing you to thank them directly.
- Military families came together to create a nonprofit organization, Blue Star Families, to empower and support one another and other families with loved ones and relatives in the military. Blue Star Families understands the priceless comfort of being able to communicate with loved ones miles away. Because of this they have teamed up with Facebook to create a social media guide so soldiers, marines, airmen, and seamen can get the most out of these resources.
The National WWII Museum
Other organizations support our military by getting social. The National WWII Museum has launched a new website to "Thank You For My Freedom." Offering three ways to say thank you: with words, photos or video.
The site has integrated social connections, allowing site visitors to share to Twitter and Facebook directly from the Veterans Day dedication site.
Wish Upon a Hero
This was a place created on the Internet shortly after 9/11 and the site is really dedicated to anyone who is a hero to you. Wish Upon a Hero is launching a campaign to donate $500,000 to assist current military and vets and their families that are in need.
Why we love Facebook
It isn't just on Veterans Day that military families, active duty personnel and vets are commemorated and able to share their story as inspiration. It happens every day and Facebook allows us to do that.
Earlier this month Congress applauded the U.S. Army Facebook page on their first one million fans. To the past, present and future men and women of the US Military, we salute you!
Will you use Facebook or other social media networks to send thanks?