Military families are an important part of our nation, and military spouses’ hard work often goes unnoticed. With Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 8, VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) on May 8 and Mother’s Day on May 10, there is no shortage of opportunities to uplift and honor military families this month. Each year, the observance runs from May 1 to May 31.
The month of May was chosen for Military Appreciation Month by Congress back in 1999. It’s a month full of military-related observances including Loyalty Day, VE Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day. During the month of May, Ford offers discounts on many vehicles for active-duty military and Veterans. The deals are on cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. They’re on top of their regular military and first responder discounts that run year-round. In honor of Military Appreciation Month, QALO is offering a free military ring to all current and former US Armed Forces members. These silicon rings are embossed with your branch of service and available in a dozen colors and multiple widths. They’re a great way to show your pride for the branch of service that you served in.
Military Appreciation Month Discounts
Many businesses offer discounts during military appreciation month in honor of the brave men and women who serve our country. These discounts are available for military members, their families, and friends, often requiring a valid ID to qualify.
The Blue Star Museums program gives military members and their families free admission at participating museums, zoos, and nature centers during National Military Appreciation Month and all of June. If you are planning to visit one, check the website for a list of locations near you.
Several companies offer home goods discounts, including Lowe’s and Moosejaw. Lowe’s offers a 10% discount on everything from tools to appliances, and Moosejaw is giving military members 15% off their entire purchase (including sale items) through the free Military Insider account.
For those who want to improve their health, there is a 15% discount on all fitness equipment at UFC GYM and other select gyms. There is also a 10% discount on LASIK surgery at LasikPlus for active duty, retired, and veteran military members.
Other special discounts are available at Armitron, Rack Room Shoes, and other retailers. Rosetta Stone is offering a 10% discount on language-learning subscription services and downloadable audio lessons to all active duty and retired military. Finally, Miami Links is a Veteran owned company offering Cuban-inspired chain link bracelets and necklaces for a 15% discount this month.
How to Observe Military Appreciation Month?
There are a number of ways to observe Military Appreciation Month and show your support for current and past military members and their families. During the month of May, many businesses offer discounts and deals for military members and veterans. You can also volunteer to help service members and their spouses in need.
There is no better time than during Military Appreciation Month to express your gratitude to Armed Forces members for their sacrifice and dedication to our country. You can do something as simple as saying hello and thank you to military members when you see them in public or buying a meal for a service member or veteran when dining out. You can also reach out to Operation Gratitude and learn how you can send care packages to lift the spirits of new recruits, U.S. military deployed overseas, and America’s wounded heroes.
Another way to show your support is to donate to your local VA hospital or veterans’ shelters and food pantries. You can also contact a veteran service organization like DAV to see how you can help. Whether it’s driving veterans to appointments, running errands, or serving meals, your help will be appreciated. You can also fly your American flag in your yard or wear a patriotic shirt to show your support.