As May dawns upon us, we are reminded of the selflessness and courage of our active-duty and veteran soldiers who put their lives on the line to defend our nation and uphold our cherished freedoms.
Military Appreciation Month gives us a chance to come together and show our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
What is Military Appreciation Month?
It is a time to pause, reflect, and honor the courageous individuals in the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps., U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Space Force, and the U.S. National Guard. Military Appreciation Month also provides the opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable support of their spouses and families.
During this month-long celebration, we honor the contributions of countless individuals, as well as the significant events and achievements that played a vital role in shaping our nation’s history and success.
The longstanding tradition of this month dates back to 1999 when Senator John McCain proposed formal legislation to declare the first National Military Appreciation Month. Since then, this month has served as a meaningful reminder of the immeasurable sacrifices made by our military heroes.
Military Appreciation Month Events
Within May, we observe six national days. Each day offers a unique opportunity to recognize the sheer dedication and bravery of our service members and their families.
Loyalty Day
National Loyalty Day was first established in 1921, and it occurs on May 1, kickstarting the month with the spirit of patriotism. It is a day devoted to recognizing American heritage, celebrating freedom, and vowing your loyalty to the country.
Victory in Europe Day
‘Victory in Europe Day’, or VE day, marks one of the most notable events in America’s history. On May 8, 1945, Germany laid down their arms, and the six-year-long World War II ended.
VE Day commemorates the courage and bravery of the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we hold dear.
Military Spouse Appreciation Day
Far too often, the steadfast support and tireless sacrifices of military spouses go unnoticed. On May 12 this year, the day will be dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the military spouses and families who show incredible strength while their loved ones are away on duty.
Armed Forces Day
Generally held on the third Saturday of every May, this is a day to honor all active-duty military members. This holiday is a tribute to all the men and women currently serving our country with great commitment and dedication.
Memorial Day
Held on the last Monday in May, this is a day of remembrance for all the soldiers who lost their lives while fighting in the U.S. Armed Force.
Every Memorial Day, we observe a solemn moment of silence, known as the National Moment of Remembrance, to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women who fought for our nation till their last breaths.
Five Ways to Celebrate Military Appreciation Month
Nothing beats the fulfillment of giving back to our military community. From simple, warm gestures to special acts of volunteering, there are endless ways to show your gratitude.
Here are some of the best ways you can get involved and show your support to military service members and their families:
Send a Care Package to a Military Member
Sending a care package is a meaningful way to show your appreciation to the military. This heartfelt gift can also boost the morale of service members, especially those who are deployed or wounded. Some things you can add to your care package include:
- Snacks
- Books
- Socks
- Hand warmers
- Toiletries, like toothpaste, deodorant and soap
- Lip balm
- Puzzles
- Board games
- A handwritten note
Acts of Kindness
If you’re in the company of a military friend or relative or if you come across a service member while you’re out and about, why not surprise them with a gift? You could buy them a meal or coffee or simply thank them for their service. Even a few words of appreciation go a long way in making someone’s day.
Donate to Military Charities
Donating to local military charities can help enrich the lives of military veterans and their families. With numerous charity options available, make sure to do your research before deciding where to donate.
Leverage Social Media
Share your love and admiration for the military on social media. These platforms are powerful tools for self-expression and spreading awareness.
This is something practically anyone can do, as it’s an incredibly accessible and easy way to participate while staying in the comfort of your home.
Volunteer for Veteran-Owned Businesses
Show your compassion and support by getting involved with an organization associated with the military. Consider offering services or volunteering at memorials or parks that honor those who have served our country.
Additionally, you can find organizations seeking volunteers to help elderly and disabled veterans with household tasks, running errands, grocery shopping and appointments.
There are endless ways to show gratitude and support for our service members and their families. At Caliber, we’re proud to support the military community in various ways and we encourage everyone to do the same.
“Thank You for Your Service” – Team Caliber
Here at Caliber, we recognize that being a service member or military spouse requires extraordinary strength and courage. We admire you and want to officially say: “You are our heroes and we are honored to serve you in any way we can.”
We also understand the unique struggles you may face — from constantly relocating, to building new networks, to navigating resources. Whether you’re currently serving or transitioning to civilian life, our team at Caliber is wholeheartedly committed to helping you every step along the way.
We proudly contribute to initiatives that make life easier for our military members and their families. In collaboration with NABC Recycled Rides®, we dedicate our time and resources to supply reliable transportation to military veterans and active duty members.
We know that moving from active-duty to civilian life can be a daunting experience. That’s why we aim to stand by your side and provide the support you need to establish a clear career path with peace of mind.
‘Changing Lanes’ is our 15-week, no-cost training program that equips service members with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the auto collision industry. Upon completing the program, Caliber also offers job opportunities at one of its 1600+ locations throughout the U.S.