Plenty of Free Veterans Day Meals Friday

If it's not free, you're paying too much.

Veterans who agree to that mantra are going to enjoy Friday in North County, when the following businesses will honor Veterans Day with promotions:

•  will offer veterans and active-duty service members a free meal on Nov. 11. According to company officials, Applebee's served more than 1 million free meals last Veterans Day, and will allow them to choose from seven entrees this year. Military ID or proof of service is required.

• will offer all military veterans, past and present a choice of six meals on Nov. 11. The offer is available at stateside restaurants only and does not include beverages and tip, officials said. Proof of military service is required.

• will serve up a free meal to all veterans and active-duty military members on Nov. 11. Patrons can choose from new specialty items on the menu at participating restaurants, officials said. A valid military ID or proof of service is required, and guests are required to purchase a beverage.

• will offer a buy-one, get-one-free special to anyone with a current or old military ID from Nov. 11 to 14.

• is offering a free slice of pizza to everyone on 11/11/11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone with military identification will receive a free lunch special consisting of two slices and a drink.

• stores nationwide will offer military personnel and their immediate families with free, small Slurpee, drinks from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The company will also will give its customers the opportunity to purchase donation cards for $1 that will benefit the USO and help send care packages to military personnel overseas. The donation cards will be available from Nov. 1 - 30.

• Some Subway restaurants, will offer veterans free six-inch subs on Nov. 11. Officials advise calling ahead to see if a particular restaurant franchise is participating. You can find your favorite Subway on Camp Pendleton Patch's directory listing.

And for those who want to get away, the National Park Service will commemorate Veterans Day by waiving entrance fees and holding special events from November 11 to 13.

Are there other Veterans Day promotions? Tell us in the comments.