Since 2012, October 26 has been recognized by all 50 states as the National Day of the Deployed, a day dedicated to honoring those past and present who have been deployed throughout the world in U.S. military service. The day also acknowledges the sacrifices that military spouses and family make during deployment.

The first-ever Day of the Deployed was observed in 2006 when North Dakota announced a proclamation for the day, thanks to the efforts of Shelle Michaeles Aberle, who petitioned Governor John Hoevento with the idea. October 26 was chosen for the date in honor of Shelle’s cousin, who had been deployed to Iraq and who celebrated his birthday on that date. Six years later, every state was observing National Day of the Deployed with their own proclamations and other recognitions.

This year, the U.S. Senate unanimously adopted S. Res. 881, resolving that the Senate 1) designate October 26, 2024 as the “Day of the Deployed,” 2) honor the deployed members of the Armed Forces and their families, 3) call on the people of the United States to reflect on the service of those members of the Armed Forces, wherever the members serve, past, present, and future, and 4) encourage the people of the United States to observe the “Day of the Deployed” with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

For BVA members, their families, and caregivers desiring to honor those who have been deployed on social media, military.com recommends including the hashtag #DayOfTheDeployed in the post.