WHEREAS, National Military Appreciation Month began with a simple idea—to gather America around its military family to honor, remember, recognize, and appreciate those who serve and have served all while knowing its history; and

WHEREAS, The first federal legislation for National Military Appreciation Month (S.Res. 33) began in 1999 with the support and sponsorship of Senator John McCain of Arizona and Representative Duncan Hunter of San Diego, California, along with over 50 veteran service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The purpose of this important resolution is to let our service members know that those they protect dedicate an entire month to honor, remember, and appreciate their patriotism and their families’ dedication; and

WHEREAS, This special recognition provides an opportunity to acknowledge both the history of the Armed Forces of the United States and the diversity of its individuals and achievements. It allows Americans to educate each generation on the historical impact of our military, through the participation of the community with those who serve, encouraging patriotism and love for America; and

WHEREAS, This very important month honors, remembers, recognizes, and appreciates all military personnel; those men and women who have served throughout our history, all who now serve in uniform, and their families, as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of the freedoms we all enjoy today; and

WHEREAS, National Military Appreciation Month recognizes those on active duty in all branches of the service, the National Guard and Reserves, retirees, veterans, and all of their families—well over 90 million Americans. Let us celebrate them just as we celebrate the other important entities that make up this wonderful country of ours; and

WHEREAS, Our military continues to play a major role in the development of our country, as chronicled through a history of unbending honor, dedication to duty, and genuine love of country; and

WHEREAS, The role of the United States as a world leader requires a military force that is well trained, well equipped, and appropriately sized; and

WHEREAS, This month is necessary to remind us of the sacrifices of the men and women who have answered the call to serve and the history we, as Americans, have been privileged to participate in throughout more than 238 years; and

WHEREAS, Our military represents the highest caliber of professionalism, patriotism, and technology, and service members willingly risk their lives on a moment’s notice; and

WHEREAS, Through appropriate means, federal, state, and local governments, and private sector entities are invited to participate in this special month and to encourage everyone to sponsor and participate in programs via multiple venues, giving the nation a time and place upon which to focus, draw attention, and express our appreciation and thanks to our military family; and

WHEREAS, National Military Appreciation Month, May 2018, includes Loyalty Day on May 1, VE Day on May 8, Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 11, Armed Forces Day on May 19, and Memorial Day on May 28; and

WHEREAS, The observance of events recognizing the contributions of the Armed Forces is a tangible and highly effective way of sustaining morale and improving the quality of life for service members and their families; now, therefore, be it