For many of us, Veterans Day is just another one of those federal holidays for which we hope to get off school or work. It is not necessarily a happy holiday either. Remembering the lives of those who served, and many, who died for our country, is heavier than a lot of us are willing to fully and truly reflect on for an entire day.

For those of us who do not come from military families or have a friend or loved one who has served and fought for our country, it is easy to forget the profound duty that these people undertake in protecting all of us and our beloved America.

As a nation at war, do not let this Nov. 11 be just another day. Let it be one in which you reflect on the commitment of these individuals, for it is to them that we owe our happiness, our safety and our liberty.

This Nov. 11, why not skip that morning trip to the coffee shop, afternoon trip to the vending machine, or drink one less drink with friends after class and donate that $5 or even $1 you saved to help the injured veterans of America and their families. If everyone donated whatever small amount of money they could to an organization that supports veterans, Americans could truly make a difference in the lives of those to whom we all owe a great debt.

Whoever you are, and whatever your capacity to assist veterans, there is a charity that is right for you. Taking two seconds to do a Google search presents thousands of options. I urge all Americans to take responsibility for helping our veterans and their families.

Katy Turnbull is a senior majoring in journalism