Short answer: It’s typically better not to say “Happy Veterans Day” to someone who served. A more thoughtful option is to express gratitude with a phrase like “Thank you for your service” or “I appreciate your sacrifice.” Details

• What to say
  • “Thank you for your service.”
  • “I appreciate your sacrifice.”
  • “Thank you for protecting our freedoms.”
  • “Welcome home” can be meaningful for veterans who recently returned.
• Why not “Happy Veterans Day”
  • The day honors service and sacrifices, not a celebration for living individuals, and some veterans may find the phrase awkward or impersonal [US sources and veteran-focused guidance on the appropriate wording].
• How to personalize
  • If you know the person, mention a specific detail of their service or a memory you share.
  • Ask open, respectful questions about their experiences, if they’re comfortable sharing.
  • Consider donating to a veterans’ organization or volunteering in their honor as a concrete sign of appreciation.

If you want, I can tailor a short message based on how well you know the person (friend, colleague, family member, or service member you don’t know well) or suggest a few ready-to-use lines.