Yes. It’s appropriate to acknowledge and thank veterans, but phrasing matters. Short answer

• Yes, you can tell veterans “Happy Veterans Day,” and many people do.
• If you want to be more universally comfortable, you can say “Thank you for your service” or “I appreciate your sacrifices,” which are widely regarded as thoughtful and respectful.

Guidance on how to say it

• Personalize when possible: a brief note about their service or a specific memory can be meaningful.
• If you’re unsure how a particular veteran feels about the phrasing, start with “Thank you for your service” and follow their lead in conversation.
• For formal messages (cards, speeches), a concise expression like “Thank you for your service and sacrifices” is appropriate.

Tips for different contexts

• In brief conversations: “Happy Veterans Day, and thank you for your service.”
• In written messages: “Thank you for your service to our country. Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated.”
• In public tributes or social posts: combine appreciation with an invitation to share their stories, e.g., “Thank you for your service. We’re grateful for your sacrifices and would love to hear your stories.”

Common sentiments to avoid if unsure

• Avoid implying celebration of hardship; focus on gratitude and respect. If someone dislikes the phrase, they’ll typically steer the conversation toward appreciation or a personal story.

Would you like help crafting a tailored message for a specific veteran or a particular setting (card, email, speech, social post)? If you share a bit about the person or audience, I can draft a few options.