News Press Releases

Applebee's Says Thank You to Servicemembers with Free Meals on Veterans Day

DIN | October 15, 2014

Expanding upon its six-year Veterans Day tradition of providing free meals to current and former servicemembers, this year Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar^® will look to provide everyday household items like washers and dryers and medical equipment to veterans or active duty military and their families in need.

Applebee’s Thank You Movement is honored to partner with the community this year by asking friends, families and neighbors to submit stories at ThankYouMovement.com on behalf of veterans or active duty military and their families who need items that would help improve the lives of those who serve our country.

“We are thankful for the men and women who have served, and currently serve, to protect this great nation,” said Applebee’s President Steve Layt. “We’re excited to show our gratitude again this year by serving free meals to our military heroes on Veterans Day, and by partnering with our neighborhoods to help servicemembers in ways that will improve their everyday lives.”

Applebee’s Thank You Movement

Since creating the Thank You Movement in 2011 to collect messages of appreciation for each of the 24 million current and former members of our Armed Forces, Applebee’s has received more than 6.7 million personal “Thank You” messages through the movement’s website: www.thankyoumovement.com.

Visitors to ThankYouMovement.com can thank a veteran by writing a personal Thank You message to be posted in real time on the website. This year, the community can tell the story of a Veteran, active service member or military family in need by describing their situation, including their service and what household item might make their everyday live a little easier or more comfortable. Applebee’s will say thanks by fulfilling some of those needs.

Applebee’s Thank You Meals

On Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, veterans and active duty military can choose a dish from the FREE Thank You Meal menu that includes some of Applebee’s signature and favorite items, including:

7 oz. House Sirloin
American Standard All-In Burger
Double Crunch Shrimp
Three-Cheese Chicken Penne
Fiesta Lime Chicken^®
Chicken Tenders Platter
Oriental Chicken Salad

Guests will need to provide proof of service, which includes: U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, photograph in uniform or wearing uniform, DD214, Citation or Commendation.

Offer is valid for dine-in only. Traditional sides are included with free entrees; 2 for $20 appetizers, upgraded side items or extras, beverages, desserts and gratuity are not included. Applebee’s Thank You Meals will be offered during normal business hours on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Hours vary by location, so Guests should call their local Applebee’s restaurant in advance to inquire about specific location hours. Applebee’s encourages Guests to call their local Applebee’s or visit www.applebees.com for more information.

The Applebee’s Brand

Applebee’s is the world’s largest casual dining chain, with approximately 2,000 locations in 49 states, 16 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Applebee’s takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar^® restaurants are franchised or operated by DineEquity’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Applebee’s International, Inc. and its affiliates.