Restaurant chains are offering free meals for veterans in honor of Veterans Day 2012. Keep in mind three things to take advantage of these specials:

• Check with the restaurant ahead of your visit to make sure your local business is participating
• Ask what form of ID is needed to get the deal.
• Check the date of the offer. Veterans Day is Sunday, Nov. 11 but the federal holiday is being observed Monday, Nov 12.

There are many other military freebies available all year round, according to About.com/Freebies.

Visit About.com/Freebies for a complete list of free Veterans Day meals at Olive Garden, Denny's, Texas Roadhouse, Applebee's, TGI Friday's, Chili's and more.