As a way to say thanks, several area businesses and restaurants are offering perks for veterans and current military members Wednesday.

Applebee's in Elkhart is saluting veterans by giving them free meals.

Applebee's is offering six specific meal choices, including chicken, steak, and vegetarian dishes.

To prove you are eligible, you can wear your uniform, show a military ID, or bring in any membership card from a veterans organization.

“We're just trying to give back today and take care of those folks, just like they've been taking care of us, and the turn out obviously has been pretty nice so far and we're hoping to be busy for the whole day and hopefully get as many people out here as possible,” says Matt Lavine, general manager at the Elkhart Applebee’s.

Old Glory hangs all over the restaurant, giving that extra patriotic touch.

Several other places are offering freebies or discounts for veterans and active-duty military today. To find out more, click here.