National Military Appreciation Month 2022

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) is a special month to be united in Remembering, Honoring, and Helping the men and women who have served and are serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Celebrated every May, NMAM is a declaration that encourages U.S. citizens to observe the month as a symbol of unity.

NMAM honors current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who have died in the pursuit of freedom.

May is characterized by national observances highlighting the contributions of those who have served.

Loyalty Day
Sunday, May 1, 2022
About: Loyalty Day kicks off our Nation’s month-long celebration of military appreciation. It is a day set aside for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States, and to reflect on the proud heritage of our American freedom.

Victory in Europe Day AKA V-E Day or VE Day
Sunday, May 8th, 2022
About: May 8th, 1945 is the day when Germans throughout Europe unconditionally surrendered to the Allies. This day marked the end of World War II in Europe.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day
Friday, May 6th, 2022. Traditionally set for the Friday before Mother’s Day. About: A day to honor military spouses with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Recognizes the important role our military families play in keeping our Armed Forces strong and our country safe.

Armed Forces Day
Saturday, May 21, 2022. Celebrated the third Saturday in May every year. About: A single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country.  This day honors everyone serving in the U.S. Military branches; Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, Space Force. There is also Armed Forces Week which typically leads up to Armed Forces Day, although it is not an official observance, many activities are planned nonetheless during the week.

Memorial Day
Date: Monday, May 30, 2022. A Federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May. About: A remembrance of our veterans.  Commemorates the men and women who died while in military service. All Americans are encouraged to pause, wherever they are, at 3:00 pm local time for a minute of silence.