>>> “Out of curiosity, is it normal to have your discharge papers on you in addition to your Veteran’s ID?”
>>>>>> Only when I go for my free meal :)
BINGO!
As it happens, I *do* have a copy of my discharge that rides in the bag I usually carry to work & medical appts, due to ongoing treatments.
However, I was discussing the matter w/ another veteran on the day before Veterans Day, & his reaction was much the same as yours, disgust w/ the notion that he should have his DD-214 to prove eligibility for the vets’ discount/freebie. Yet he freely showed me the notary-stamped veterans ID card from filing his DD-214 w/ his local registrar of deeds, which is perfectly adequate proof of service. I don’t know what his problem could be.
Due to my work/sleep schedule, I almost never get to participate in Veterans Day discounts & freebies. This past Friday allowed me discounts of 10-11% at local grocery stores, free coffee & donut at Krispy Kreme, free 6-in sub & soda from Sheetz & dinner out w/ my honey (charge of $5 for our sodas). Many, many thanks to the participating retailers & restaurants!
The participants’ websites make it clear what proof of eligibility they expect. I voluntarily presented my VA card. KK, Sheetz & the grocery stores almost all said they’d take my word for it; the guy handing out the veterans menu tickets at Ap’s was asking proof from all veteran comers, resorting to asking at least one (that I heard) if he at least had a photo of himself in uniform.
I got a free meal at Ryan’s Steakhouse and they didn’t even ask for paperwork. I guess the haircut was enough (though I did have my current ID). I think that was the first time I’ve actually been out on Veteran’s day and was able to take advantage of a freebie.
Trump’s win sure added to the atmosphere—I am so glad I’ll have his signature on my final DD214—I have been hanging on so I don’t get BO on my retirement papers. :)