These days it seems that most every patriotic band and orchestra concert includes something called the “Armed Forces Salute” — a medley of songs affiliated with various branches of the U.S. military. As the song for each branch is played, audience members who have served, or are serving, in each military branch stand, and are recognized with enthusiastic applause.
This is the patriotic aspect of recognizing military veterans. The practical aspect is portrayed when employers step forward to specifically offer employment opportunities for veterans.