HONORING THE MILITARY
Ways to Show Your Support and Appreciation
May is Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor and show gratitude for the military's role and the sacrifices they make. This year, let's delve into the different ways you can express your support and appreciation for the men and women who serve our country.
Random Acts of Kindness
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to show your support is through random acts of kindness. Surprise an active-duty service member, reservist, or guardsman with a small gift, a phone call to check in, or a heartfelt thank you.
If you aren't acquainted with someone currently in the military, show your appreciation for any Veteran you know. A simple gesture can make their day.
Educate and Engage
Take this opportunity to educate yourself and others about the military's role, history, and the challenges service members face. Join discussions on social media, attend webinars, parades, or charity runs related to the military.
Support Veteran-Owned Businesses
Another tangible way to show your support is by shopping at Veteran-owned businesses. Veterans often face unique challenges as they transition back into civilian life, including re-entering the workforce. By choosing to shop from businesses owned by Veterans, you're directly contributing to their post-service success and acknowledging their service in a practical, impactful way.
Sending Care Packages
One of the most personal and appreciated gestures is sending care packages to those currently deployed. These packages can include snacks, entertainment items, books, personal care products, and handwritten notes. The contents remind service members of home and show them that their efforts are recognized and cherished.
Volunteer with Veteran Organizations
Many organizations dedicated to supporting Veterans and active-duty members thrive on volunteer support. By volunteering your time, you can directly impact the lives of service members and their families. Any skills you have can be offered, and your involvement makes a difference.
Memorial Day: A Time for Reflection and Gratitude
Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday of May, is a significant day for honoring the military. It's a time to remember and honor the service members who lost their lives in service to our country. Take a moment during your Memorial Day celebration to reflect on the meaning of the holiday and the sacrifices of our military personnel.
Whether you're gathering at a BBQ, the pool, or a beach, pause to reflect on the significance behind the holiday and the reason for the three-day weekend. Honor those who sacrificed their lives by treating your loved ones and strangers with the same respect and kindness you'd like to receive.
In summary, there are numerous ways to show your support and appreciation for the military during Military Appreciation Month. Remember, it's not just about showing appreciation for those in the military, but also about honoring their service and the sacrifices they make for our country.
P.S.
The above-mentioned activities can be practiced all year round, not just in May. Military Appreciation Month is simply a reminder to emphasize, appreciate, and reflect on the military's service and sacrifice.
Before you go, consider some of these memorable gifts for the Veterans in your life. I’ve researched them and have even purchased some of them as gifts. You can incorporate these into your support of our troops this month and year-round.
Support Veteran Authors:
“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins: https://amzn.to/3QxGH15
Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world's top endurance athletes. The only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller
“Make Your Bed” by Admiral William H. McRaven: https://amzn.to/4bpf5mZ
Based on a Navy SEAL's inspiring graduation speech on powerful life lessons.
“Lone Operator: How to Survive & Thrive in the Modern Age” https://amzn.to/4b0968i
The true story of a modern-day Spartan. From very humble beginnings, Joseph Teti overcame poverty, tragic loss, and crippling phobias to serve in not one, but three special-operations units.
Thoughtful Gifts for Veterans:
USMC Armed Forces Prayer Coin https://amzn.to/3QtIvbt
US Space Force Joint Task Force Defense Challenge Coinhttps://amzn.to/3Ws6NGy
Military Branch Logo engraved - Insulated Tumbler with lid & straw https://amzn.to/3y0wO5D
Aromatherapy Scented Candle - Hand Poured by US Veteranshttps://amzn.to/3QrQPZc
Unique Gifts for Veterans:
“Retired Military” Phonetic Alphabet Retirement T-Shirt https://amzn.to/4dlCxmO
“Smells Like Freedom” Aromatherapy Candle Gift https://amzn.to/3wiETSN
Mental Wellness Tools:
“As a Man Thinketh” by James Allen https://amzn.to/4a8JkgO
“Protect Your Peace: Nine Unapologetic Principles for Thriving in a Chaotic World” by Trent Shelton https://amzn.to/4bdcmgs
“Winning the War in Your Mind: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life” by Craig Groeschel https://amzn.to/3JP5oSM
“DBT Workbook For PTSD: Proven Psychological Techniques…” by Barrett Huang https://amzn.to/3w7hu6U
365 Page Large Leather Journal https://amzn.to/3UJVQPA