What comes to mind when you think of the month of May? Flowers blooming from April showers? Pending PCS season? The beginning of summer... or maybe even Memorial Day? If I am being honest, those were the things that popped into my head, but May actually has so much more significance….Any one want to take a guess?
If you guessed Military Appreciation Month, then, you guessed correctly! May is a month we honor those who have served and are serving our country. As a former military brat and current military wife, I will admit, military life is challenging for the whole family. We make many sacrifices, but the soldier is ultimately the one who selflessly puts his/her life down for others at a moments notice. They are the ones battling the trenches, living in barracks in war torn countries, eating MREs instead of having a nice home cooked meal with their family, and so much more.
They put their country first, all while missing holidays, births of children, and other momentous life events not to mention risking their health, all for the greater good of our country. Many may also face trauma from their job which can result in challenges in life both physically, and mentally. This certainly is not a job for the faint of heart, and takes a special kind of person to do it. That is why it is especially important to recognize them and their sacrifices this May.
Some Special Military Days in May:
- Military Spouse Appreciation Day
- Celebrated on the Friday before Mother's Day.
- Armed Forces Day
- Celebrated on the 3rd Saturday of May
- We honor and celebrate those who are in the armed forces.
- A day we recognize all they do for us to preserve and keep our country safe.
- Memorial Day
- Occurs on the last Monday of May
- Originally called Decoration Day
- The day we honor all those who have died for our country.
- Unfortunately, to many it is just a three-day weekend gateway to summer and not many observe it as the true holiday it represents.
- The National Moment of Remembrance was passed in 2000 to help others observe this day by participating in a moment of silence, at 3pm (local time) or listen to Taps.
Ways to Honor & Celebrate This Month:
- Have an American Flag flying at your house.
- Thank a veteran for their service.
- Donate to military-based organizations.
- Send care packages to members overseas.
- Wear red, white, and/or blue.
- Volunteer with veteran organizations.
These are just a few of the many ideas in which your whole community can join in! So, while we are approaching, May let's not forget the significance of this month, and honor all of our amazing men and women who have served or are currently serving!!! From all of us to all of you...THANK YOU!!!!
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