May 2013 is National Military Appreciation Month! Veteran Owned Business Military Observance Announcement

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM), as designated by Congress, provides a period encompassing both the history and recognition of our armed services with an in-depth look at the diversity of its individuals and achievements.  It allows Americans to educate each generation on the historical impact of our military through the participation of the community with those who serve encouraging patriotism and love for America.  This month gives the nation a time and place on which to focus and draw attention to our many expressions of appreciation and recognition of our armed services via numerous venues and also to recall and learn about our vast American history.

National Military Appreciation Month (May 2013) includes Loyalty Day/Silver Star Service Banner Day (May 1st), Public Service Recognition Week (May 5th-11th), V-E Day (May 8th), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 10th), Armed Forces Week (May 11th-18th), Armed Forces Day (May 18th), Maritime Day (May 22nd), and Memorial Day (May 27th).  This very important month honors, remembers, recognizes and appreciates all military personnel; those men and women who have served throughout our history and all who now serve in uniform and their families as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today.

It recognizes those on active duty in all branches of the services, the National Guard and Reserves, plus retirees, veterans, and all of their families – well over 90 million Americans and more than 230 years of our nation’s history. Let us celebrate them just as we celebrate the other important entities that make up this wonderful country of ours.

How to participate:

• Donate to the Armed Forces Children’s Education Fund
• Send cards and letters of appreciation to A Million Thanks
• Get involved with the USO (Make a Difference to Troops and Their Families)
• Make a donation to The Fisher House and support families whose loved ones are being treated at military and VA hospitals. (Especially if you have unused frequent flyer miles or an unwanted vehicle)
• Donate to The Wounded Warrior Project and support the thousands of wounded warriors and their families as they return home!
• Support the American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services.
• Volunteer or visit your local VA Hospital to honor veterans from past conflicts.
• Support your troops and lift their spirits by sending them something from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service.
• See a growing list of events across the country at NMAM.org as well as other ways to get involved
• Get your community on board – tell them about National Military Appreciation Month and all the Military observances during the month of May.