National Military Appreciation Month
On National Military Appreciation Month, we honor the quiet acts of citizenship — in uniform, at the ballot box, in our communities.
Why it matters
HONORING OUR HEROES
May is a month dedicated to honoring our military personnel, and it’s a time to reflect on their sacrifices.
THE STORY
National Military Appreciation Month was established in 1999 to recognize the contributions of the men and women who serve in the United States military. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families. During this month, various events and initiatives are organized across the country to honor those who protect our freedoms. From parades to community service projects, the month provides numerous opportunities for Americans to express their gratitude.
May also includes significant dates, such as Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday of the month. This day is dedicated to remembering the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Many communities hold ceremonies and activities to honor those who have died in military service, reinforcing the importance of remembering the past while appreciating the present.
In addition to honoring those who have fallen, National Military Appreciation Month highlights the ongoing contributions of active duty service members and veterans. It encourages citizens to engage with local veterans’ organizations, participate in outreach programs, and support initiatives aimed at aiding military families. Acts of kindness and support go a long way in making a difference in the lives of those who have served.
As we celebrate National Military Appreciation Month, let us not forget the global context in which these heroes serve. American military personnel are often deployed in various regions around the world, working alongside international allies to promote peace and security. Understanding the broader implications of their service can deepen our appreciation and commitment to supporting them and their families.
WORTH KNOWING
Support Our Troops
Write letters or send care packages to deployed service members.
Attend Events
Join local ceremonies and parades honoring military members.
Educate Yourself
Read books about military history and veterans’ experiences.
Volunteer
Get involved with organizations supporting veterans and their families.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
Flag Day
National Military Appreciation Month begins with Loyalty Day on May 1.
Memorial Day
Observed on the last Monday of May to honor fallen soldiers.
Military Families
May also celebrates Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
Global Presence
U.S. military personnel serve in over 150 countries.
Veteran Statistics
Approximately 20 million veterans live in the U.S.
Support Resources
Numerous organizations exist to assist veterans and their families.
Service Members
Over 2 million service members have deployed since 9/11.
READ MORE
The Things They Carried
Tim O'Brien
A powerful collection of stories about soldiers in the Vietnam War.
American Sniper
Chris Kyle
The autobiography of the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history.
Band of Brothers
Stephen E. Ambrose
A riveting account of Easy Company during World War II.
Unbroken
Laura Hillenbrand
The incredible true story of a World War II bombardier.
PAIR IT WITH
Find ways to honor local veterans.
Educate yourself about military history.
Send letters to deployed service members.
Participate in community appreciation events.
Show Your Support
This National Military Appreciation Month, take a moment to honor and support those who serve and protect our nation.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate National Military Appreciation Month.
- Send a note to someone who has served.
- Attend a local ceremony or observance if there is one.
- Fly a flag properly, or don't fly one you can't maintain.
- Donate to a veterans' service organization.
- Teach a kid one piece of local history they don't know yet.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Watch a documentary or read a local history piece together and discuss it.
For kids
Help them write a short thank-you card to a veteran or service member.
For couples
Attend a local ceremony or observance together.
At the office
Host a moment of recognition — a short announcement, a card circulated, a donation drive.
At school
Invite a local veteran to speak, or visit a nearby historic site.
In your community
Volunteer with an organization that serves veterans and their families.
On your own
Read one first-person account by someone who served. Let it sit.