Most people don’t realize this, but May is National Military Appreciation Month. As a Navy veteran, I am, of course, on top of these things. National Military Appreciation Month is a month-long observance honoring the sacrifices of the United States Armed Forces. Today, the United States Armed Forces comprises six branches, including the Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force. The U.S. military force is 2.2 million strong and includes National Guard and Reserve units.
I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty impressed by that!
Congress declared National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to honor the sacrifices of the United States Armed Forces. There are more military-related observances during May than any other month, so it is an appropriate time to celebrate our men and women in uniform. This month we recognize Loyalty Day, VE Day (the end of World War II in Europe on May 8, 1945), Armed Forces Day, Military Spouses Day, and Memorial Day. The month honors active duty, guard and reserve members, and veteran service members. The U.S. military and all they do to serve and protect their country are publicly honored all month long.
To celebrate, I’ll bring you stories of bravery and honor displayed by soldiers in our armed forces. Here are a few ways you can observe Military Appreciation Month:
- Thank military personnel and veterans for their service.
- Use #MilitaryAppreciationMonth in your social media posts.
- Host a luncheon, picnic, or another event to recognize their service.
- Share your experiences in the military.
- Recognize family members of military personnel.
- Support veteran causes such as Honor Flights and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
- Visit Military.com to learn more.
I hope you enjoy this month’s blogs and, as always pass them on if you feel they are beneficial.
Until next time…