It is important to recognize and raise awareness of every patriotic holiday, whether it’s a well-known or lesser-known patriotic holiday. These patriotic holidays are a good time to bring friends and families together and show your community how important our country is and what it means to you.
Did you know that the whole month of November is Military Family Month & Warrior Care Month?
Military Family Month was established in 1996 by the Armed Services YMCA, and the U.S. government has recognized the occasion every year since. Each November, the President signs a proclamation declaring November National Veterans and Military Families Month and recognizes the daily sacrifices made by active duty, Guard, and Reserve military families.
Warrior Care Month was created in 2008 as an attempt to raise awareness of the needs and lives of wounded warriors. It is observed every November with a variety of activities and programs.
A specific date in November and more popularly known is Veterans Day. It is observed every year on Nov. 11. Veterans Day evolved from Armistice Day, which was proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson. Armistice Day recognizes the end of World War I when fighting ceased at the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. (Nov. 11th at 11 A.M, 1918). On Veterans Day, Americans observe a two-minute moment of silence beginning at 2:11 p.m. EST to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans throughout history. To support Veterans and their families, you can participate in various ways:
- Adopt-a-Soldier for the Holidays
- Thank an Active-Duty Member, Veteran, Military Spouse, or Military Child for their service.
- Visit war memorials with your family to teach your children the value of service.
- Fly the U.S. Flag.
- Property retire U.S. Flags at the VFW Drop Box
- Donate new toys at the VFW for Toys for Tots during the holiday season.
- See someone in uniform? Thank them for their service or surprise them with a free coffee, dessert, or drink if they are in line behind you.
- Donate or volunteer with a military assistance organization like the USO, VFW, or American Legion.
- Join the Veteran groups or auxiliaries. Visit the websites to verify the eligibility of each group.
- www.vfw.org - Largest combat Veterans organization
- www.vfwauxiliary.org - Specific family members of combat Veterans
- www.leigon.org - Active-duty Veterans organization
- www.leigon-aux.org – Specific family members of active-duty Veterans