I tried to eat at the Golden Corral last year and the line was so long and restauirant was full that I decided not to wait a couple hours. It is good to know that Applebees is trying it. I just looked at their web site and not all Applebees is doing it. At least the ones in the Charlotte area are not on the list. Also Applebees wants proof of military service. Last year I called the Golden Corral and they would just take your word for military service.
If you want to try Applebees you might want to be sure that your location is in their test.
I think it is great that restaurants is doing this for veterans.