May Is National Military Appreciation Month

Governor Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed May as National Military Appreciation Month in South Dakota. He is calling on all of us to help raise awareness of our men and women in uniform and also our veterans.

Monday, Daugaard said, “The vigilance of the members of the Armed Forces has been instrumental to the preservation of freedom, security and prosperity enjoyed by the people of this great nation,” the Governor’s proclamation states. “The success of the Armed Forces depends on the dedicated service of its members and their families.”

National Military Appreciation Month includes Loyalty Day 5/1, Victory In Europe Day 5/8,  Military Spouse Appreciation Day 5/11, Armed Forces Day 5/18 and Memorial Day 5/27.

The governor says each one of these days provides an opportunity for all of us to learn about military members and the families who support them.

“This month is dedicated to all of our military men and women and their families, and it also provides an opportunity to educate our youth on the historical importance of the Armed Forces,” said Maj. Gen. General Timothy Reisch, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of the Military and Adjutant General of the South Dakota National Guard. “Our veterans and their families have contributed so much to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.”

Some of the things we can all do is donate to Operation USO Care Package,  volunteer or visit the local VA Hospital, send our troops "Gifts From The Homefront" certificates,  and be sure thank a member of the armed forces.

For more ideas on how individuals can participate through schools, business, civic organizations, churches, libraries and museums visit the National Military Appreciation Month website.