Is the Month of May Military Appreciation?
The month of May is often associated with recognizing and honoring the men and women who serve in the military. But is there a specific reason why we celebrate military appreciation in this particular month? In this article, we’ll dig deeper to find out more about the history and importance of military appreciation in the month of May.
History of National Military Appreciation Month
National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) was first enacted in 2004 under the leadership of then-Wisconsin Senator Herb Kohl. The month’s purpose is to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of troops, veterans, and military families. May was chosen as the month of celebration because it includes several existing observance days that honor the military, such as:
- National Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 21)
- Military Child Nutrition Month (May)
- National Military Appreciation Day (May 15)
- National Police Officers Memorial Service (May 15-21)
<h2-Key Events and Observances-During-NMAM-Bullet-Points
Here are some important events and observances happening during NMAM:
- National Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 21): acknowledges the sacrifices and hard work of military spouses
- Military Child Nutrition Month (May): recognizing the importance of nutrition in supporting military children’s daily lives
- National Military Appreciation Day (May 15): a day to show support and gratitude to troops serving at home and abroad
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So, what makes the military so valuable and deserving of appreciation?
- Protection of freedoms: The military ensures we can live freely and continue to enjoy our basic liberties
- Defense and security: They safeguard national security, protecting us from external threats
- Service and sacrifice: Thousands of troops have made ultimate sacrifices, giving their lives for our country
- Support for humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts: military personnel participate in international endeavors to promote peace and prevent conflict
- National defense and deterrence: They maintain a strong global presence, deterring and responding to threats
Here’s a table highlighting these significant contributions:
| Why People Appreciate the Military | |
|---|---|
| Protection of Freedoms | Ensuring US citizens can live freely with basic liberties |
| Defense and Security | Safeguarding national security and protecting from external threats |
| Service and Sacrifice | Service members have made ultimate sacrifices for their country |
| Support for Humanitarian and Peacekeeping Efforts | Participating in international efforts to promote peace and prevent conflict |
| National Defense and Deterrence | Maintaining a strong global presence, deterring and responding to threats |
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But how can you show appreciation for the military during and beyond NMAM? Try these suggestions:
- Send care packages or letters of gratitude to troops serving overseas or at home
- Encourage your employer to promote NMAM and support troop appreciation initiatives
- Sponsor a military family or participate in local events honoring military contributions
- Share your experiences and stories of military connections on social media using specific hashtags (e.g. #NMAM2021)
- Attend military-inspired events, such as music concerts, parades, or memorial services
You can also show appreciation:
- By supporting organizations specifically dedicated to military families’ well-being, such as the USO (United Service Organizations) or AAFES (Army-Air Force Exchange Service)
