Military Spouse Appreciation Day: Recognizing Their Strength and Sacrifice

In 1999, Congress officially made Military Spouse Appreciation Day part of National Military Appreciation Month. On this?#MilitarySpouseAppreciationDay, we honor the many unwavering contributions and sacrifices made by military spouses. This appreciation day is a time to pause and pay tribute to military spouses' remarkable sacrifices and contributions. These courageous individuals dedicate their lives to supporting their loved ones in service to our country, navigating countless challenges and hurdles.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 12, 2023, as Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

As we reflect on the significance of military spouses, it is crucial to acknowledge their unique obstacles. Frequent relocations and deployments often disrupt their ability to establish stable careers, maintain a sense of home, and forge lasting connections. Yet, in the face of adversity, military spouses demonstrate unwavering resilience, determination, and commitment to their families and nation.

Their contributions extend far beyond the home front. Military spouses possess unique skills and experiences acquired through their journey alongside their service members. They develop leadership skills, resilience, and resourcefulness, making them invaluable assets in various spheres. Their education and professional expertise further enhance their capacity to excel in diverse fields.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day reminds us of the incredible sacrifices and contributions made by military spouses; it also serves as a call to action. While advocating for legislative changes is impactful, we can support military spouses at the federal, state, local, and community levels in numerous ways. Let's explore some actionable steps we can take to uplift and empower these resilient individuals in their unique journey.

Empowering Change: Advocating for Legislative Support of Military Spouses

Advocating for legislative changes is a powerful way to support military spouses and make a meaningful impact on their lives. More specifically, here are a few different ways you can help advocate for policies on behalf of military spouses and their families.

1. Stay informed: Stay updated on policies and legislation directly impacting military spouses. Follow news sources, join military spouse organizations, and engage with online communities to stay informed about the latest developments. Military Spouse Advocacy Network
2. Research existing policies: Familiarize yourself with the current policies and programs in place for military families. Understand their strengths and limitations to identify areas where improvements can be made.
3. Connect with advocacy organizations: Seek out reputable advocacy organizations that focus on supporting military families. Join these organizations, attend their events, and stay connected to stay informed about advocacy opportunities and initiatives.
4. Engage with local representatives: Reach out to your local representatives at the state and federal levels. Write letters, make phone calls, and schedule meetings to express your support for policies that enhance the well-being and support of military spouses. Share personal stories and experiences to illustrate the importance of these issues.
5. Collaborate with other advocates: Connect with other advocates and organizations working towards similar goals. Collaborate with them to amplify your voice and increase the collective impact of your advocacy efforts. Join forces for letter-writing campaigns, rallies, or other initiatives to raise awareness and influence policy changes.
6. Utilize social media and online platforms: Utilize social media platforms to share information, educate others, and raise awareness about the challenges faced by military spouses. Engage in online discussions and use relevant hashtags to bring attention to the issues.
7. Support legislative initiatives: Stay informed about upcoming legislation that affects military families. Support bills and initiatives that aim to improve access to healthcare, affordable housing, quality education, and employment opportunities for military spouses. Contact your representatives and voice your support for these initiatives.
8. Participate in town halls and public hearings: Attend town halls, public hearings, or community forums where military family-related issues are discussed. Take the opportunity to share your perspective, ask questions, and advocate for the needs of military spouses.

Beyond Legislation: Empowering Military Spouses Through Supportive Actions

1. You can contribute to the positive changes needed to support military spouses by actively advocating. Your voice and others who share the same goals can influence policymakers and help create policies that enhance the well-being and support of military families.
2. Volunteer with military family support organizations: Offer your time and skills to organizations that provide support services to military families. This can include assisting with childcare, organizing events, or offering professional guidance. Blue Star Families
3. Offer employment opportunities: If you own a business or work in a position of hiring authority, prioritize employing military spouses. Create job opportunities or advocate for policies that promote hiring military spouses. Military Spouse Jobs
4. Provide mentorship and networking opportunities: Extend mentorship to military spouses by sharing your knowledge and expertise. Connect them with professional networks and help them build meaningful connections within their desired industries. U.S. Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce
5. Support flexible work arrangements: If you are an employer, consider offering flexible work arrangements such as remote work options, flexible hours, or part-time positions. This flexibility allows military spouses to balance their responsibilities effectively. Hire Heroes USA
6. Offer childcare assistance: Military spouses often require reliable and affordable childcare options. Consider providing babysitting services or organizing community programs to support them in managing their family responsibilities.
7. Extend a helping hand during deployments: Offer assistance to military spouses when their partners are deployed. This can involve helping with household tasks, running errands, or providing emotional support.
8. Support education and career development: Contribute to scholarships, grants, or educational programs specifically designed for military spouses. Encourage access to education and professional development opportunities that can enhance their career prospects. Hiring Our Heroes
9. Create a supportive community: Foster a sense of community by organizing gatherings or events that bring military families together. Encourage neighbors and local organizations to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for military spouses. National Military Family Association
10. Express gratitude and appreciation: Simply saying "thank you" goes a long way. Show your appreciation for military spouses' sacrifices by expressing gratitude and recognizing their contributions to our nation's service members.

Take a moment to reach out to military spouses in your network, offer a helping hand, or explore ways to advocate for policies that uplift and empower them. Together, we can ensure that every day is a day of appreciation for the remarkable contributions and sacrifices of military spouses.

Dannielle M. Pope is a George W. Bush Stand-To Veteran Leadership Scholar, Army Combat Veteran, former Military Spouse, and recovering Non-Profit Executive who serves as a Public Health Catalyst dedicated to utilizing data and evidence-based programs to drive systemic change for Rural Communities and Veterans.