You probably have a veteran in your life, or know someone who has served in the U.S. military. With Veteran’s Day upon us, we’re sharing a collection of books to honor our veterans. These moving books include essays and first-hand accounts of war and military life. Here are five books to honor veterans.

Chicken Soup for the Veteran’s Soul: Stories to Stir the Pride and Honor the Courage of Our Veterans (Chicken Soup for the Soul) by Jack Canfield

Touching and inspiring, the stories in Chicken Soup for the Veteran’s Soul share the experiences of those who have fought for our country. These stories bring long-forgotten heroes and new friends together who have risked their lives for our freedom.


Vets and Pets: Wounded Warriors and the Animals That Help Them Heal by Dava Guerin

From pigs and horses to cats, birds and dogs, Vets and Pets share inspirational stories of war heroes and their service animals. These unique and life-lasting bonds between veterans and their four-footed (and sometimes winged) pals are emotional and entertaining. Not only is this book a great read, the proceeds all go to the nonprofit Pets for Patriots!


American Sniper by Chris Kyle

American Sniper is a New York Times bestselling memoir and was also a hit on the big screen starring Bradley Cooper. Known as the most famous sniper in U.S. military history, Navy SEAL Chris Kyle (who was sadly killed in 2013), protected his fellow war veterans from atop roofs and hidden spots. This harrowing account of his life is told in first-person and includes commentary from his wife about how greatly the war impacted their lives. An incredible story you won’t forget, American Sniper is one of the greatest memoirs in recent history, and Chris Kyle will never be forgotten.


The Operator: Firing the Shots that Killed Osama bin Laden and My Years as a SEAL Team Warrior by Robert O’Neill

With non-stop action about his time during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, The Operator is O’Neill’s story of war and survival. This book is about the human heart at its core, and how to remain calm during intense death and destruction. O’Neill was also directly involved with the hit that killed Osama bin Laden and is considered a national hero in his own right.


Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors by George W. Bush

This beautiful coffee table book showcases oil paintings by former President George W. Bush and the stories behind their service – people Bush knew personally who served after 9/11. These intimate stories of courage and resilience will inspire and inform. Proceeds from the sale of this book go directly to the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which helps veterans and their families transition back into civilian life.

(Feature image courtesy of @philiafate)