As we head into Veterans Day weekend American Beverage Association member Coca-Cola Consolidated is honoring service members with a new program called "Message in a Bottle" to thank them for their service.

At an event held today at the USO Warrior and Family Center in Bethesda, Md., USO members and their families received a mini bottle with a special note written inside. The messages were written by Coca-Cola Consolidated team members and members of the public expressing their gratitude. So far more than 1,000 bottles have been distributed at events throughout the U.S.

At today's event, USO members enjoyed lunch and were visited by special guests including the USO Show Troop, Maryland State Senator William Smith and the Washington Nationals' Racing Presidents.

We know that members of the military and their families sacrifice a great deal to protect and defend our nation. America's beverage companies are always proud to pay tribute to both our servicemen and women and our veterans. Please join us in saying thank you this Veterans Day!