Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to ensure that the country demonstrate publicly its appreciation for troops past and present. The month is usually marked also by a Presidential Proclamation.

The selection of May for this designation seems especially appropriate given the individual days during the month that note U.S. military achievements—Loyalty Day (May 1), established in 1921; anniversary of the death of Osama Bin Laden (May 2); V-E Day (May 8), described in more detail below; Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 12); Children of Fallen Patriots Day (May 13); Armed Forces Day (May 20); and Memorial Day (May 29). For ideas on commemorating National Military Appreciation Month as individuals and families, click here.