Proudly Supporting Our Military

Make May the time to recognize and appreciate military service members widely; in fact, May is National Military Appreciation Month and is celebrated in a variety of ways and observations. Do something for a service member to honor the military this May, including assisting a disabled or physically-limited veteran. Consider the history of this observance and recognize the sacrifices made.

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) is celebrated each May, coinciding with other observances that fall in the month, including Memorial Day. The meaning behind the event is to encourage Americans to unite to honor current and former members of the US Armed Forces and to salute those that sacrificed their lives for this country. Participate by helping out a service member with a ride to an appointment, a conversation, or assistance with autonomy, such as providing mobility aids to improve quality of life.

How will you celebrate Military Appreciation Month in May this year?

History of NMAM

Start with a little bit of history about this event: Military Appreciation Month was conceived in 1999 by Senator John McCain who presented legislation to deem the month of May as a tribute to the National Military. Both the House and Senate approved this observance to recognize members of the military and urge all Americans to do the same.

NMAM Observances

National Military Appreciation Month is more than a mere celebration; it is a series of coordinated observances and national holidays. Widely, folks gather to pay homage to service personnel both past and current, which often manifests in parades, picnics, parties, and charitable events. Some perks offered during Military Appreciation Month often include store discounts and free admission to sporting events, among other things.

Presidential Proclamation

The president is called upon during NMAM to remind his fellow Americans of this observance and to urge others to pay tribute to those that have served in the armed forces. The president may make a public address to highlight some of the important roles that the military has played throughout history and to acknowledge the sacrifices associated with service. There is little dispute that without the Armed Forces, our nation would not be united, developed, and free.

During NMAM, try to do something to honor the six separate occasions that are key during the month of May. This month is noted for honoring the military’s accomplishments and victories, including Memorial Day and Loyalty Day. Other noteworthy days during May include ‘Victory in Europe Day’ commemorating the end of WWII in Europe and the ‘Children of Fallen Patriots Day.’ More recently, the anniversary of the death of Osama bin Laden in 2011 is also memorialized during the May remembrance of NMAM. You can see how National Military Appreciation Month is not a solitary event, but rather a coordination of six different recognitions that emphasize the contributions of those who have fought for our freedom.

Accessibility and Autonomy

At the very least, veterans and disabled Americans are entitled to access and accessibility to their homes and workplaces, which may be supported through mobility aids and devices. Whether a little bit of support in the tub or shower would help or if you need help getting in and out of the home, there are many different devices to perfectly suit your needs. Some examples include:

• Lifts.
• Scooters or chairs.
• Reaching tools or grab bars.
• Toilet chairs and shower seats.
• Ramps.

Talk to your provider to learn more about your options and visit mobility aids dealers to try and demonstrate the latest products to support your independence.

How will you observe Military Appreciation Month this year? We have some ideas. 

Now that you know more about Military Appreciation Month in May, how will you honor those that do or have served? Support a veteran in making their life easier through accessibility and help them garner the resources, equipment, and mobility aids needed.

Pacific Mobility proudly supports our military and is available to assist with mobility aids that can increase independence and that support aging in place for our veterans. If you have served or if you are an active member of the military, please accept our gratitude for the contributions and sacrifices made. You are what this great country is all about.