Military Appreciation Month
Our military service members (and their families) invest their time and physical, mental, and emotional health into their roles.
At Guardian Revival, our mission is to serve guardians & families, helping to improve their mental health & well-being.
During Military Appreciation Month, we recognize the significance of their service, both for our country & communities and for the individuals who serve. We invite you to learn more about this month and how we can honor our military service members & veterans.
What Is Military Appreciation Month?
Military Appreciation Month was created in 1999 by the late Senator John McCain, who proposed the month-long observance, which was then adopted by Congress with strong bipartisan support.
Congress officially designated May as Military Appreciation Month because it already included several significant military-related observances. The legislation passed unanimously, and the President is called on each year to issue a proclamation encouraging Americans to honor the commitment and dedication of U.S. Armed Forces members through various ceremonies and activities.
Why Do We Celebrate Military Appreciation Month?
Military Appreciation Month was created to ensure that, as a nation, we never take the immense sacrifices made by the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces for granted.
Beyond honoring service, this month is about acknowledging the full scope of military life, from its challenges and triumphs to its lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Here’s why this month of recognition matters:
Honor the Commitment of Military Service Members
Joining the military is more than a career choice — it’s a vow to serve something greater than oneself. Service members pledge to defend the Constitution, protect our freedoms, and, if necessary, put their lives on the line. Military Appreciation Month allows us to collectively say, “We see you. We thank you.”
Recognize the Sacrifices Made
Behind every deployment, there are missed birthdays, long separations, and the ever-present risk that a loved one may not return.
Military life isn’t just demanding, it can be deeply isolating, and this month reminds us to show gratitude for those who sacrifice not only time, but sometimes their physical and mental well-being for the sake of others.
Remember Those We’ve Lost
Memorial Day, one of the capstones of Military Appreciation Month, brings the nation together to honor fallen heroes, but remembrance shouldn’t be confined to one day — this entire month provides us with an important opportunity to reflect on the price of freedom and the lives given to secure it.
Educate and Inspire
Many civilians go through their daily lives without ever interacting with someone in uniform. This month serves as a bridge, an opportunity to learn more about military life, understand the issues facing veterans, and inspire the next generation to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy.
Support Military Families
Service extends beyond the individual, it touches spouses, children, and entire communities. Military Appreciation Month shines a light on the families who move often, hold down the homefront during deployments, and offer quiet, steadfast support.
If you’re the spouse or family member of a military service member or veteran, Guardian Homefront is here for you. As a part of Guardian Revival, this program was created specifically to support the people who stand behind those who serve.
Homefront offers mental health and wellness resources to help military families navigate the ins and outs of this unique lifestyle, as well as family-focused events and support networks to help families find a sense of community with people who are on similar journeys to their own.
Military Holidays During Military Appreciation Month
Military Appreciation Month is filled with national observances that pay tribute to the strength, dedication, and sacrifices of the military community.
Each of these dates highlights a unique aspect of military life — from the families who serve behind the scenes to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. Here’s a deeper look at the key military holidays during Military Appreciation Month:
Loyalty Day - May 1
Originally observed in 1921 and made an official holiday in 1958, Loyalty Day is a time for Americans to reaffirm their commitment to the United States and the values it stands for. It’s a patriotic reminder of the importance of unity and national pride, especially relevant in both times of peace and conflict.
Public Service Recognition Week - First Full Week of May
Public Service Recognition Week honors the service and contributions of public servants, including members of the military and government employees. It highlights the often unnoticed dedication of those who work behind the scenes to keep our country on track both at home and abroad.
Victory in Europe (VE) Day - May 8
VE Day marks the end of World War II in Europe in 1945, when the allied forces accepted the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany. It’s a day to reflect on one of the most impactful moments in world history and to remember the millions of service members who fought for peace and freedom during one of humanity’s darkest times.
Military Spouse Appreciation Day - Friday Before Mother’s Day
Military spouses are the backbone of military families. Often juggling careers, parenting, and frequent relocations that can sometimes take place while their partner is deployed. Military Spouse Appreciation Day gives us all an opportunity to honor their resilience, strength, and unwavering support of those who serve.
Armed Forces Day - Third Saturday in May
Armed Forces Day is dedicated to honoring the individuals who are currently serving in all branches of the U.S. military.
A celebration of those in uniform today, from soldiers and sailors to airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen, Armed Forces Day is an opportunity to recognize their ongoing service and sacrifice and express our gratitude for all they do.
Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
Memorial Day is perhaps the most solemn of the month’s observances, Memorial Day honors the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. Many communities hold parades, ceremonies, and moments of silence in remembrance.
It’s a day of reflection, gratitude, and national mourning for those who gave their lives in defense of our lives and of our liberty.
Give Back to Those That Serve With Guardian Revival
At Guardian Revival, our mission is simple: to serve those who serve us. We offer support to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families with programs and resources that support mental health and well-being and create a sense of community and belonging.
Guardian Revival Programs
A program that provides free companion dogs to veterans and first responders, so they can benefit from the therapeutic benefits of having a canine companion.
An outdoor activity program designed to allow veterans, first responders, and military personnel to enjoy a sense of community with their peers and a connection with the natural world.
A program that harnesses the healing power of music by providing guardians with opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share their music at no cost to them.
A support system for guardians that provides gatherings, direct peer support, and a 24/7 Talk Line to offer peer-to-peer connection & support to help veterans and first responders improve their mental health & overall well-being
A program dedicated to providing the spouses, partners, and family members of veterans and first responders with the resources they need to successfully support their loved ones and navigate the challenges that come with their unique relationships.
If you believe in what we do, we invite you to stand with us in supporting our guardians and make a donation to help us continue providing programs and services that make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who serve.
