How to Celebrate National Military Appreciation Month

NATIONAL MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH

By California Broker Magazine

National Military Appreciation Month

National Military Appreciation Month is observed every May as a time to honor those who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces, along with their families and supporting communities. Championed by Senator John McCain and established by Congress in 1999, National Military Appreciation Month provides an extended period for businesses, communities, and individuals to express gratitude through events, ceremonies, and outreach programs across the country. While many veterans have life and health insurance covered, in some cases you can still help their loved ones. Most of all, show your appreciation in the ways outlined in this article.

May is packed with other individual military-related observances. Here are key dates to celebrate:

May 1 – Loyalty Day reaffirms loyalty to the U.S. and recognizes the heritage of American freedom.
May 8 – Victory in Europe (VE) Day marks the allied victory in Europe in 1945, ending WWII on the European front.
May 8 – Military Spouse Appreciation Day falls on the Friday before Mother’s Day and recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of military spouses.
May 16 – Armed Forces Day is observed on the third Saturday of May to honor those currently serving in the U.S. military.
May 25 – Memorial Day falls on the last Monday of May and is a solemn day of remembrance for those who died in military service.

Behind every service member stands a network of spouses, children, and families who bear the weight of frequent relocations, long deployments, and the ever-present uncertainty of military life. National Military Appreciation Month exists to ensure these collective sacrifices are not overlooked. The month also draws attention to issues affecting veterans after their service ends, including the transition to civilian employment, access to healthcare, and mental health support (May is also Mental Health Awareness Month). With over 18 million living veterans in the U.S., the observance serves as a prompt for communities and policymakers to consider ongoing obligations to those who have served. It is also a time when many businesses offer military discounts, host hiring events, and launch charitable drives benefiting service members and their families.

Ways to Show Your Appreciation During National Military Appreciation Month

Attend a local ceremony or parade – Many communities host Armed Forces Day parades, Memorial Day ceremonies, and wreath-laying events throughout May. Attending these events shows visible support and keeps traditions alive.

Write letters to deployed service members – Organizations such as Operation Gratitude and A Million Thanks coordinate letter-writing campaigns. A handwritten note from a stranger can make a significant difference to someone stationed far from home.

Volunteer with veteran service organizations – Groups like the USO, Wounded Warrior Project, and local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts welcome volunteers year-round but especially appreciate extra hands during May.

Support military families in your community – Offer practical help to military families nearby — whether that means helping with childcare during a deployment, mowing a lawn, or simply checking in regularly.

Donate to military charities – Verified organizations such as the Fisher House Foundation, Gary Sinise Foundation, and Homes For Our Troops provide housing, medical support, and family services for veterans and active-duty personnel.

Display the American flag – Flying the flag at your home or business throughout May is a simple, visible gesture of appreciation. Ensure it is displayed correctly according to the U.S. Flag Code.

Learn and share military history – Visit a military museum, read about a specific conflict or campaign, or watch a documentary. Understanding the history behind the service deepens appreciation for those who have served.

Observe the National Moment of Remembrance – On Memorial Day, pause at 3:00 p.m. local time for one minute of silence to honor fallen service members. Encourage friends and family to join you.

Our subscribers are encouraged to show appreciation to veterans and active duty military this month. We also greatly appreciate those who have and are serving in our military.

While many veterans have life and health insurance, in some cases you can still help their loved ones.