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Get ready to honor and recognize the sacrifices and contributions of military families during Military Family Month, starting on November 1! This special month was established in 1993 by President Bill Clinton to celebrate and support the families of those who serve in the armed forces. It's a time to show appreciation for the strength, resilience, and dedication of military families who often face unique challenges. From organizing care packages for deployed loved ones to volunteering at local military bases, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference during this important month. Let's show our gratitude for these unsung heroes!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1993</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Inception of Military Family Month</div><div class='timeline-text'>President Bill Clinton established November as Military Family Month to honor and recognize the sacrifices of military families.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1996</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>First Enlistment Support Program</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Department of Defense launched the first programs aimed at providing direct support and assistance to military families.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2001</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Increased Public Attention</div><div class='timeline-text'>Post 9/11, with US troops deployed overseas, public attention and appreciation for military families heightened.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2011</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Joining Forces Initiative</div><div class='timeline-text'>First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden launched the Joining Forces initiative to support military families.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2020</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>COVID-19 Impact</div><div class='timeline-text'>The resilience of military families was further tested amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Host a care package party</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Get together with friends and family to create care packages for military families. Include items like snacks, books, and personal hygiene products to show your support and appreciation for their sacrifices.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Volunteer at a military base</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Contact your local military base and inquire about volunteer opportunities. You can help organize events or provide support to families in need.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Donate to a military charity</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Research and donate to a reputable charity that supports military families. Your contribution can make a big difference in the lives of those who serve our country.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a military parade or ceremony</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Show your support by attending a local military parade or ceremony. It's a great way to honor and recognize the sacrifices of military families.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Send letters and cards to deployed service members</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Spread some love and appreciation by sending letters and cards to deployed service members. It's a simple gesture that can mean a lot to those who are far from home.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It recognizes and honors the sacrifices of military families</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Military families often have to endure long periods of separation from their loved ones, frequent moves, and other challenges. Military Family Month provides an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate their resilience and strength in the face of these difficulties.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It raises awareness about the unique experiences of military families</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Many people may not fully understand the realities of being a military family. By dedicating a whole month to recognizing and educating others about their experiences, we can increase understanding, empathy, and support for these families.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It promotes unity and camaraderie within the military community</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Military Family Month brings together military families to celebrate their shared experiences and bond over their common challenges. It also allows them to connect with resources and support networks that can enhance their well-being.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>November was chosen to coincide with Veterans Day</h3><p class='facts-content'>Military Family Month in November was strategically chosen to align with Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11th, amplifying recognition and support for all individuals who served in the US armed forces and their families.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Military Family Appreciation Month is recognized by The Department of Defense</h3><p class='facts-content'>Though not a federal holiday, The Department of Defense officially observes November as Military Family Appreciation Month, offering resources, events, and discounts to-military-related individuals.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>The armed forces have specific language around family members</h3><p class='facts-content'>In military terms, dependents include spouses, children, and anyone else a service member may claim for tax purposes, highlighting the weight and responsibility carried by military families.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Military families move 10 times more frequently than civilian families</h3><p class='facts-content'>The “military brat” style of life aids children in becoming adaptable and resilient. The military lifestyle can present plenty of adventures, but it also brings many challenges and sacrifices like saying goodbye to friends and changing schools frequently.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Operation Appreciation encourages acknowledgement all year round</h3><p class='facts-content'>While Military Family Month is in November, a year-round campaign called Operation Appreciation encourages continual acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by military families, giving individuals many chances to celebrate and support these unsung heroes.</p></div></div>
Military Family Month is celebrated on November 1 every year. In 2024, it will occur on a Friday.
2023
Nov 1
Wednesday
2024
Nov 1
Friday
2025
Nov 1
Saturday
2026
Nov 1
Sunday
2027
Nov 1
Monday
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