Honoring Service Through Strategic Planning: Estate Planning for Veterans
Honoring Service Through Strategic Planning: Estate Planning for Veterans By Melinda Gustafson Gervasi November 6, 2026 American Flag - San Diego, CA As November 11 approaches, our nation pauses to observe Veterans Day —a dedicated time to honor and express gratitude to all American military veterans, living and deceased, who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Originally established as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, Veterans Day was officially renamed in 1954 to recognize veterans of all wars and peacetime service. It serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families to protect our country. When we think of a veteran, we often picture active-duty soldiers or combat action, but the legal definition and reality are much broader. A veteran is anyone who served in the active military, naval, space, or air service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Beyond standard active-duty branches...