Where Veterans Can Eat for Free

I have such admiration and respect for every veteran who has served in the U.S. military,

especially my niece, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and my dad, a U.S. Army vet. It seems only fitting then, that many restaurant chains across the country are honoring our nation's vets by offering them free meals, appetizers and more.

Here are some of top restaurant chain deals for Veterans Day on November 11:

* Applebee's: Veterans and active duty military can get a free Signature Entree, including the American Standard All-in Burger, from the restaurant chain's Veteran's Day menu.

* Red Robin:a free Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries.

* Olive Garden: a free meal from a limited menu.

* Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin' Onion and soda, and 15% off for active and retired military for the rest of this year!

* Denny's: free all-you-can-eat pancakes.

* Krispy Kreme: free doughnut and small coffee.

* California Pizza Kitchen: one free pizza for active military and vets.

* Chili's: one free entree all day from its special Veteran's Day menu.

* Menchie's: free 6-ounce frozen yogurt.

Plus, Bed Bath & Beyond and World Market are offering veterans 20% off their purchase through November 11. And Home Depot and Lowe's both offer a 10% discount to veterans on November 11.

These are great deals, and I hope everyone who can takes advantage of them! You certainly deserve it, and I thank you for your service.