How have veterans been honored in the past?

Parades, memorials, statues, medals, VFW services, congressional recognition, and on occasion angry accusations and spittle.

Other than the traditional Veterans Day and Memorial Celebrations. The veterans were welcomed home with open arms and appreciation. A lot depended on the community some gave parades, etc

All except Viet Nam veterans who were mocked and ridiculed. (I was spit on by a lady while walking through Chicago O'Hare Airport) but that is changing now. In the past - not sure about now - businesses were offered incentives for hiring veterans. If you want to honor a veteran, just go up to any vet and give him or her a hug or shake their hand and say "Thank you for serving!" It really does mean a lot.