National Military Appreciation Month
Honor all who serve! May is dedicated to recognizing the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. From active duty to veterans, celebrate their service, sacrifice, and dedication to protecting our freedom.
About National Military Appreciation Month
Honor all who serve! May is dedicated to recognizing the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. From active duty to veterans, celebrate their service, sacrifice, and dedication to protecting our freedom.
History & origins
National Military Appreciation Month is an informal U.S. observance held each May to honor active-duty service members, veterans, and military families. Its modern form is commonly traced to 1999, when Congress designated May as the month of recognition, and it is often reinforced each year by a presidential proclamation. May was chosen because it already includes several military observances, including VE Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day.
Why it matters
National Military Appreciation Month gives Americans a focused time to recognize the people behind military service, not just the uniform. It also draws attention to the practical needs of service members and families, including support for veterans, caregivers, and those dealing with deployment, injury, or transition to civilian life.
How to celebrate
Thank service members and veterans. Attend military ceremonies. Support military families. Volunteer at VA hospitals. Display the flag. Learn about military history. Donate to veteran organizations.
Facts
- May includes several military observances
- VE Day (May 8), Armed Forces Day (3rd Saturday), Memorial Day (last Monday)
- Over 1.3 million Americans serve on active duty
- Military service runs in many American families
- The US has the world's largest military budget
Upcoming dates
- Friday, May 1, 2026
- Saturday, May 1, 2027
- Monday, May 1, 2028
- Tuesday, May 1, 2029
- Wednesday, May 1, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Military Appreciation Month in 2026?
National Military Appreciation Month is in May 2026. The observance runs for the full month, from May 1, 2026, through May 31, 2026.
What is National Military Appreciation Month?
It is a month-long observance in May that honors the service and sacrifice of U.S. Armed Forces members, veterans, and military families. It is not a federal holiday, but a recognition month centered on appreciation and support.
Who started National Military Appreciation Month?
Its modern designation is generally credited to Congress in 1999. The observance is also promoted each year through military and veteran organizations and annual presidential messaging.
How do you celebrate National Military Appreciation Month?
You can thank service members and veterans, attend a military ceremony, fly the flag properly, or support military families and veteran charities. Volunteering at a VA hospital or learning more about military history are also meaningful ways to participate.
Is National Military Appreciation Month the same as Veterans Day?
No, it is broader than Veterans Day. Veterans Day honors those who have served, while National Military Appreciation Month includes active-duty troops, veterans, military families, and other related observances throughout May.
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