A trim and a tribute: Free haircuts to say thank you to our Veterans

When you think about ways to thank a veteran for their service, a free haircut might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But for one salon chain, it’s become a beautiful tradition—one that’s touched the lives of 2.5 million veterans over the past 13 years.

Offering more than just a trim, these free haircuts are a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, a chance to connect, and a moment of dignity. For many veterans, sitting in that chair means being seen, valued, and remembered. And for those offering the service, it’s a simple yet powerful way to give back.

Great Clips continues to show how small, thoughtful gestures can make a lasting impact. Through its annual “Thank a Veteran” campaign, the salon chain offers free haircuts to veterans and active military personnel—proving that genuine appreciation doesn’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful.

What makes Great Clips’ approach so impactful is how straightforward and sincere it is. Rather than relying on flashy promotions, the company focuses on offering a service that veterans genuinely need and appreciate.

Now in its 13th year, the initiative takes place every Veterans Day (November 11), turning a routine service into a heartfelt way to honor those who’ve served. It’s a powerful example of how everyday business practices can be used to uplift and recognize members of the community.

A ripple of gratitude that reaches far beyond the chair

What makes this initiative truly stand out isn’t just the free haircuts—it’s the ripple of gratitude it creates throughout the community.

Great Clips also invites everyday customers to take part in honoring veterans. Instead of wondering how to express appreciation, patrons receive a tangible way to “pay it forward”: a free haircut card they can pass along to a veteran or active service member. It’s a simple act that turns personal care into collective recognition.

“This tradition is just one way of saying thank you to those who serve and sacrifice for their country,” said Steve Hockett, CEO of Great Clips, in a press release—emphasizing the company’s commitment to honoring military service through meaningful gestures.

Great Clips’ commitment to honoring military service has expanded significantly over the years. Now in its 12th year, the company’s Veterans Day initiative has provided more than 2.3 million complimentary haircuts to service members.

In recent years alone, over 200,000 veterans annually have received free haircuts through the program—highlighting its continued reach and impact across communities nationwide.

Beyond its annual Veterans Day initiative, many Great Clips locations extend daily discounts, typically between $2 and $5, to military personnel and first responders. It’s a quiet but consistent way of showing respect and gratitude, woven into everyday business.

A model worth remembering

Great Clips' program shows how businesses can create a lasting positive impact through consistent, meaningful action.

“We're honored to continue to offer free haircuts to veterans and active service members across the U.S. and Canada,” said Hockett.

Other salon chains, such as Sport Clips, also run similar initiatives to honor military service.

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, participating Sport Clips locations will offer free or discounted haircuts to veterans and active-duty service members as a gesture of appreciation.

Simple acts, meaningful impact

The success of programs like Great Clips’ Veterans Day initiative shows that communities are eager to support those who’ve served—they just need accessible ways to do it.[/]

This tradition is a reminder that honoring veterans doesn’t have to involve grand gestures. Often, the most meaningful recognition comes through simple, everyday acts—a free haircut, a discounted meal, or a heartfelt “thank you for your service.” These small moments of appreciation can leave a lasting impact.

As we approach Remembrance Day, perhaps it's worth thinking about how we might create similar traditions in our own communities. Whether it's encouraging local businesses to offer veteran recognition programs or simply being more intentional about thanking the veterans in our lives, every gesture counts.

What small gesture could you make to honor a veteran in your community? Sometimes the most powerful thanks come in the most practical forms.