On Tuesday, Nov. 1, President Barack Obama proclaimed November National Military Family Month. More than 2.7 million men and women serve in the United States armed forces, and these service members have more than three million family members.
Family, friend and community support for these military families helps to strengthen our military and acknowledge these heroes.
“Just as our troops embody the courage and character that make America’s military the finest in the world, their family members embody the resilience and generosity that make our communities strong,” Obama said in proclamation released Tuesday. “They serve with heroism in their homes and neighborhoods while they are without the comfort of having loved ones nearby. … To these families and to those whose service members never come home, we bear a debt that can never be fully repaid.”
Is there a military family in your neighborhood or circle of family and friends? Here are some ways you can thank them for their service:
- Make a concrete offer for a specific type of support. If the military member is deployed, watch the children to give the spouse a break, or offer to help with household chores.
- Let the military family know that you appreciate the service and sacrifice they have made.
- Be sensitive when discussing your personal views on war or the military.
If you don’t know a military family, you can still make a difference:
- Volunteer with an organization that provides support for military families (American Red Cross, USO, etc.)
- Connect with a Veteran Service Organization within your community.
- Look for opportunities in your own community to support military families, and participate.