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2014 Military Spouse Appreciation Day: "Military Spouses: Keeping Army Families STRONG"

Friday May 9, 2014

What is it?

Congress officially made Military Spouse Appreciation Day part of National Military Appreciation Month in 1999. This year the commemoration falls on May 9, 2014, and the theme is Army Spouses: Keeping Army Families STRONG. The theme captures the essence of the military spouse and reinforces the fact that spouses are vital to the strength, resilience and readiness of the Army. In celebration of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, garrisons Army-wide will hold a variety of programs and special events to inform, honor and recognize spouses. Events ranging from spouse appreciation luncheons to educational workshops to spouse employment fairs will take place on or near garrisons around the world.

What has the Army done?

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation officially recognizing Military Spouse Appreciation Day. The Department of Defense has since standardized the date by declaring the Friday before Mother’s Day every year as Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

Why is this important to the Army?

The Army recognizes the important role Army spouses play in today’s Army. After more than a decade at war and multiple deployments, military spouses continue to support America’s Army unconditionally while pursuing careers and serving in multiple roles as community leaders, mothers, fathers, and Soldiers. Through mission, deployment, reintegration and reset, military spouses are the backbone of the families who support our Soldiers. They are essential to the strength of the nation.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?

The Army will continue to provide families a strong, supportive environment. The Army is committed to supporting family readiness through programs such as, health care, housing, schools, youth services, child care, education and employment opportunities. The Army salutes spouses who are Keeping Army Families STRONG.

Resources:

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