Each May, our country gives a well-deserved and rousing message of thanks to our men and women serving in the military. The president makes a proclamation, recalling the incredible impact that the U.S. Armed Forces have made on the history and development of our country. Let’s explore what Military Appreciation Month is and how you can make it a part of your homeschool and show your support.
When is Military Appreciation Month?
Designated by Congress in 1999, National Military Appreciation Month provides all people with the opportunity to show our military the utmost respect, support, and gratitude for their service. May was selected because many of the U.S. military’s accomplishments are commemorated during this month, including Loyalty Day, established in 1921, Victory in Europe (VE) Day commemorating the end of WWII in Europe in 1945, and Children of Fallen Patriots Day. Other holidays that occur in May that honor our military include Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day.
“Homeschooling has been a popular choice among military families for years due to ease of use, and flexibility. Among the 1.2 million children of active-duty military parents, more than 72,000 are homeschooled, according to the Military Child Education Coalition.”
How to Show Your Support and Appreciation for Our Troops
Check out the following ideas and how to show your support and appreciation this month.
- Volunteer at a local VFW Post or American Legion in your area, and show support by attending one of their events.
- If you are part of a co-op or homeschool group, host an event that supports the military community, or a military family. Hold a celebratory event with the children of armed services personnel to show your appreciation for their service. It could be any kind of party or fun activities. The children of servicemen and women also need your support.
- High school students can become more familiar with the origins of each branch of the military, and their specific role, by writing a report on this topic or creating a presentation to share with the family.
- Acknowledge veterans for their service by saying: “Thank you for your service.” You could do this on social media, by a text message, a phone call (if you know a veteran), a letter, or in person.
- Contact your local VA hospital and inquire about volunteer work. You could also send gift packages to the patients or soldiers who are in rehabilitation facilities.
- Plan field trips to local memorials, forts or military museums. Attend local parades or other events that celebrate the military.
- If you know a veteran or military spouse, donate your time and expertise. Perhaps you can cook meals, help with yard work, run errands, or just spend time chatting with them.
- Display the American flag and have your children create colorful posters and pictures that they can give to local vets or American Legion.
Homeschooling in the Military
Homeschooling has been a popular choice among military families for years due to ease of use, and flexibility. Among the 1.2 million children of active-duty military parents, more than 72,000 are homeschooled, according to the Military Child Education Coalition. Read more about how Time4Learning made homeschooling possible for a busy military family.
