Serving alongside our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, our Nation’s military families give of themselves and give up their time with their loved ones so we may live safely and freely. Few Americans fully understand the sacrifices made by those who serve in uniform, but for spouses of service members across our country, the costs of the freedom we too often take for granted are known intimately. On Military Spouse Appreciation Day, we honor the spouses of those who have left behind everything they know and love to join our Nation’s unbroken chain of patriots, and we recommit to giving military spouses the respect, dignity, and support they deserve… – Barack Obama, Former President of the United States of America
On what day is National Military Spouse Appreciation Day celebrated? The Friday before Mother’s Day each May
What is National Military Spouse Appreciation Day? National Military Spouse Appreciation Day honors the sacrifices made by military spouses. Their commitment to our country as their loved ones serve in our armed forces is unmatched. Military spouses are often the silent heroes of our nation.
Who founded this day? Proclamation 5184, dated April 17, 1984, was signed by Ronald Reagan to recognize the profound importance of spousal commitment to the readiness and well-being of military members. In 1999, Congress officially declared National Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
What is the hashtag? Use the hashtag #NationalMilitarySpouseAppreciationDay when sharing on social media.
How to celebrate: The branches of our military hold special events to honor spouses on this day. These events range from spouse appreciation luncheons to educational workshops, and spouse employment fairs that pay tribute to military spouses. If you know a military spouse, be sure to let them know that you appreciate them. Consider sending them flowers, baking them cookies or taking them out for dinner.
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