National Military Appreciation Month 2023

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) 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 six national observances.

Loyalty Day
Monday, May 1, 2023. 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.

Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW)
Sunday, May 7 – Saturday, May 13, 2023. Public Service Recognition Week is a time set aside to honor the men and women who serve our nation as federal, state, county, and local government employees and ensure that our government is the best in the world.

Victory in Europe Day AKA V-E Day or VE Day
Monday, May 8th, 2023. 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 12th, 2023. Military Spouse Appreciation Day is 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 20, 2023. Armed Forces Day is celebrated on 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, and 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 29, 2023. Memorial Day is 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.