Expanding upon its six-year Veterans Day tradition of providing free meals to current and former service members, this year Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar will look to provide everyday household items like washers and dryers and medical equipment to veterans or active duty military and their families in need.

Applebee’s Thank You Movement is asking friends, families and neighbors to submit stories at ThankYouMovement.com on behalf of veterans or active duty military and their families who need items that would help improve the lives of those who serve our country.

“We are thankful for the men and women who have served, and currently serve, to protect this great nation,” Applebee’s President Steve Layt said.

Since creating the Thank You Movement in 2011 to collect messages of appreciation for each of the 24 million current and former members of our Armed Forces, Applebee’s has received more than 6.7 million personal “Thank You” messages through the movement’s website, www.thankyoumovement.com.

Visitors to ThankYouMovement.com can thank a veteran by writing a personal Thank You message to be posted in real time on the website. This year, the community can tell the story of a veteran, active service member or military family in need by describing their situation, including their service and what household item might make their everyday live a little easier or more comfortable.

Applebee’s will say thanks by fulfilling some of those needs.

On Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, veterans and active duty military can choose a dish from the free Thank You Meal menu that includes some of Applebee’s signature and favorite items.

Guests will need to provide proof of service, which includes: U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, photograph in uniform or wearing uniform, DD214, Citation or Commendation.

For more information, visit www.applebees.com.