The minimum was 1,000 plates in 5 years (really 2) as the first three years were exempt
We paid an extra $30/year for the "Special plate fee"
I too go out of my way to thank and shake anyone with a Vet designation shirt, hat, plate - hell even tattoo.
Just last week - My wife manages a few laundromats here in town, and some Patriot Guard riders rolled in to do some laundry - and while they were getting change in the dollar changer - she snuck over to their machines and started them for free with her keys....
The were dumbfounded.... she said - its one thing to say thank you ... another to show it.
(they bought her a Buskin and Robbins ice cream as a thank you - thank you.... oi )
You look after your own.
(I and she come from military families and I am U.S. Army)