Nat’l Military Appreciation Month – what is it?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Tristan Truesdell
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs

There are numerous military-centric holidays and celebrations sprinkled throughout the year, including National Military Appreciation Month, but what is it?

Less than three percent of the nation's population serve in the armed forces. The month of May is a time to show appreciation for their dedication to military service

With a high demand for current worldwide operations, the military has been improving its ability to build a more lethal, ready force. To support these objectives, the military provides benefits to its service members

"The Air Force has provided my family with financial stability," said Airman 1st Class Cleve Nelson, 819th Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operations Repair Squadron Engineers Squadron pavement and equipment operator. "I've improved my professionalism, structure and personal goals."

The military offers family assistance and on-the-job training skills that can also be applied after a service member transitions to civilian life

"I see everything as an opportunity," Nelson added."I joined the career I wanted to. I learned a trade I can take with me when I get out of the Air Force."

Educational benefits are also available to those who pursue higher education.

"I've always wanted to be in the military," said Staff Sgt. Justin Nelson, 841st Missile Security Forces Squadron flight security controller. "Along with stability for my family, I can continue to work on my education and get a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Now I have something to take with me after the Air Force."

Because of all the military-centric holidays, May is NMAM. The holidays include the following:

(verbiage taken from military.com)
Loyalty Day
May 1st
A day for citizens to reaffirm their loyalty to their country and remember their heritage of American freedom.

Public Service Recognition Week
May 5th to 11th
A week dedicated to celebrate and honor those serving our nation as federal, state, county and local government employees.

Victory in Europe Day
May 8th
Celebration of the unconditional surrender of Germany during World War II in 1945. This day marked the end of World War II in Europe

Military Spouse Appreciation Day
May 10th
A day to honor the sacrifices and support of military spouses.

Armed Forces Day
May 18th
On the third Saturday of May, this day honors those serving in the military.

Memorial Day
May 27th
A closing holiday to remember veterans who served or died serving while in military service.