May is National Military Appreciation Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the courageous men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Designated by Congress, NMAM encourages Americans to publicly show their appreciation for the sacrifices—and accomplishments—made by our military personnel. During this important month, Americans have the opportunity to come together to thank our military for their patriotic service in support of our country, at several national events planned throughout the month.

NMAM 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 military history.

Loyalty Day, which is celebrated May 1 of each year, kicks off our nation’s month-long celebration of military appreciation.

Other important events honoring our military’s achievements include Victory in Europe (VE) Day celebrated on May 8, Military Spouse Appreciation Day celebrated on May 9, Armed Forces Day celebrated on May 17, and Memorial Day celebrated on May 26. Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day are the best known of the May military-themed holidays. Armed Forces Day, which was created to honor all branches of the U.S. military, replaced separate Army, Navy and Air Force days. And, Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who died while serving in military service.

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.

(Information compiled from the Government Publishing Office’s Government Book Talk and National Military Appreciation Month website at http://www.nmam.org/about.htm.)