Applebee's to Serve Free Meals to Veterans

Veterans and active duty military personnel will be given a free meal at today, beginning with an early lunch at 10 a.m. to thank them for their service to the Country. 

Applebee's initiated this program nationwide last year and has decided to extend hours – from 10 a.m. to midnight or later at some locations – in order to better serve veterans, according to a spokesperson for the company. The Riverhead Applebees served over 500 meals last year, and nationwide, over one million free meals were served. 

"It's an honor to host this event each year. It helps the neighborhood come together and say 'thanks' to our veterans and active servicemen and women," Kurt Pahlitzsch, director of operations for Applebee's Long Island, said. "We feel a special connection to everyone who wears or has worn our nation's uniform to protect our freedoms. We're proud of their courage and happy to have this opportunity to offer a great meal with our compliments."

This year, Applebee's Veterans Day menu includes: 7 oz. House Sirloin, Bacon Cheeseburger, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Double Crunch Shrimp, Three-Cheese Chicken Penne, Chicken Tenders Platter and Oriental Chicken Salad. All U.S. veterans and active duty personnel with proof of current or former military service can choose one complimentary entrée from this selection of favorites. Proof of service includes the following: 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.