May 18, 2017

Military Appreciation Month

Photo by Nathan Stein under Pexels License

National Military Appreciation Month occurs annually in May. Congress designated National Military Appreciation Month in 1999, and it chose May because we already celebrate several significant days during this month that commemorate and thank members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including:

• Loyalty Day
• V-E Day
• Military Spouse Appreciation Day
• Armed Forces Day
• Memorial Day

National Military Appreciation Month strengthens ties between the military and communities as civilians support and show appreciation for current and retired military personnel. We owe our freedoms to veterans, and it’s important for us to honor and show appreciation for veterans and their families in nine practical ways.

• Display an American Flag

The American flag is one of our country’s most important symbols. Erect a flagpole in your front yard or on your porch, and proudly display the American flag.

• Attend Celebratory Services

Many communities recognize local military members with services and parades. Attend these events and encourage your family members and friends to participate in honor of veterans.

• Thank a Veteran

Many veterans appreciate a simple “thank you,” but you can also show gratitude in practical ways. Treat a veteran to lunch, start a conversation about his or her service, or offer to perform needed home or car repairs.

• Decorate Cemeteries

Honor our fallen heroes with cemetery decorations. Join a local veteran’s group or Boy Scout troop in arranging flags, wreaths or flowers on the graves. Or, pull weeds and clear debris from around the headstones as you recognize the sacrifices our veterans have made.

• Share Info About Military Discounts

Dozens of restaurants, department stores and attractions offer military discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel and their families in May. When you see these promotional offers, share them on social media and via word of mouth. Consider offering a military discount if you’re a business owner, too.

• Provide Job Training

After their military service, some veterans may need help returning to the job market. Use your professional skills to assist veterans in your community. You can teach a trade, offer resume writing tips, or provide transportation to job interviews.

• Assemble United Service Organizations Care Packages

Most veterans were stationed far from family at one point in their military careers. Show support to these men and women when you appreciate and remember active-duty military personnel with care packages. You can assemble items like toiletries, nonperishable foods and healthy snacks for military personnel you know. Or, contact your local USO for details on joining its next care package assembly event.

• Adopt a Veteran Family

Serve veterans and their families in your community when you adopt a veteran family this month. Treat a veteran’s spouse to a spa day, give the family grocery or department store gift cards, or take the kids to a ball game. With a little time and effort, you can make the life of a veteran and his or her family easier.

• Donate Your Car

Veteran Car Donations partners with nonprofits that transform your used car into a variety of practical and life skills for veterans — including housing, medical care, food, job training, mental health services, and other practical services. Plus, you receive a big tax deduction!

Photo by Rik Schots under Pexels License

During the month of May, celebrate veterans when you participate in one or more of these nine practical activities. Your support shows your gratitude for the service and sacrifice others have made on your behalf. For more information on donating your used car, contact Veteran Car Donations today. Together, we demonstrate how much we appreciate and value veterans during National Military Appreciation Month.

Last Updated: August 23rd, 2023