May is National Military Appreciation Month
National Military Appreciation Month is observed and celebrated annually in May. It’s a time to recognize, honor, and show gratitude for the service and sacrifices of current and former United States Armed Forces members. According to military.com, the celebration dates back to 1999 when Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month to “ensure the nation was given a chance to publicly show their appreciation for troops past and present”.
During Military Appreciation Month, many events and initiatives take place to support and celebrate service members and their families. The month-long observance includes several national holidays such as Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, and Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
Military Spouse Appreciation Day is typically observed on the Friday before Mother’s Day and is an integral part of National Military Appreciation Month.
Military Spouse Appreciation Day was first observed in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation to recognize the important role played by military spouses. This year's celebration is on May 10, 2024, and serves as an opportunity to show appreciation and acknowledge their resilience, strength, and the crucial role they play in supporting the broader military community.
Check out these George Mason events celebrating service members and their families!