National Military Appreciation Month | May 2026

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) is a powerful tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of our nation’s Armed Forces. Designated by Congress, this month invites Americans to reflect on the rich history and enduring legacy of those who have served.

It is a time to honor the diversity and strength of our military community, to educate future generations about the price of freedom, and to come together in gratitude. Through remembrance, recognition, and celebration, we reaffirm our commitment to those who have protected our nation—and the ideals that make America strong.

National Military Appreciation Month is observed throughout the entire month of May, alongside the Month of the Military Caregiver.

This important month includes several key military observances, including Loyalty Day and Silver Star Service Banner Day on May 1; Public Service Recognition Week (May 3–9, 2026); V-E Day on May 8; Military Spouse Appreciation Day (celebrated on the Friday before Mother’s Day) on May 8; Armed Forces Week May 9–16, 2026 (celebrated from the 2nd Saturday to Armed Forces Day); Armed Forces Day on May 16 (celebrated on the 3rd Saturday in May); National Maritime Day on May 22; and Memorial Day on May 25, 2026 (observed the last Monday in May).




National Military Appreciation Month is a powerful tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of the men and women who have served—and continue to serve—in the United States Armed Forces. It honors not only those currently in uniform, but also our veterans, retirees, military families, and the heroes who gave their lives defending the freedoms we hold dear.

Spanning more than 250 years of American history, this month recognizes the enduring legacy of service across all branches of the military, including active-duty personnel, the National Guard, and Reserves—along with the millions of families who stand beside them. Together, they represent more than 90 million Americans connected by military service.

This May, let us come together to honor their legacy, celebrate their service, and express our deepest gratitude. Their sacrifice has shaped our past, protects our present, and secures the future of the United States of America.

How to participate:

• Donate to the Armed Forces Children’s Education Fund
• Send cards and letters of appreciation to A Million Thanks
• View and support OVER 40,000 businesses proudly owned by military veterans and active duty military.
• 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.
• Help get the word out to Veteran Business Owners to make sure he/she signs up to get his/her free VOB Directory business profile
• Get your community on board – tell them about National Military Appreciation Month and all the Military observances during the month of May.