The month of May is National Military Appreciation month, where we take the time to honor those who have served and/or sacrificed for our country, be it current military personnel, veterans, or their families. Some businesses, like Chick-Fil-A, offer discounts during this month in order to show their appreciation. Other individuals recognize their friends who have or are serving through an assortment of gestures and/or events.
According to S.Res.33, In 1999, our Congress designated May as National Appreciation Month, because many specific holidays surrounding the military occur throughout the month including Loyalty Day, VE Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Mother’s Day, Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day. It was started to honor those who remember the sacrifice and service of military members, “serving as a reminder of the profound contributions made by service members” (Military.com, 2025).
It really is a time to bring more awareness and understanding of everything the military does, and what those who have served have gone through. Civilians are given a chance to appreciate those in their community who have been a part of the military, like active duty members like guards or reserve rangers, or even neighbors. This month also allows children to learn about the military and what they do, and why it is so important for our country.
“I just think it’s incredible. How [people] come together and really recognize us who have served because it makes me feel so appreciated,” said Lexi Schmitt, a military veteran.
The impact of the national event does not only just take place among small communities, as big companies and local businesses offer discounts to military members and their families. Depending on the franchise location, many Chick-fil-a’s offer a 25% discount for active duty and retired military members, while other locations may offer free meals or other promotions (Veteran.com). In the Metro DC Chick-fil-a location, Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, the franchise offered a free meal to all active duty and those who have honorably served, along with immediate family (see CFA Metro DC).
“So many military people come in with their families and when they see the flier about the discount, I can just see their faces light up. I’m just so glad I work somewhere that provides something so significant to so many people,” described Mira Jackson, a Chick-fil-a employee.
Families, businesses, neighborhoods, communities all come together and work to show military members how truly loved and appreciated they are during this month, no matter the specific holiday.
“We always take Lexi out for dinner on Memorial day, but during the whole month we really just try to show her how loved she is. Her little brother even gives her a present when she comes home after exams,” said Stella Schmitt, mom of Lexi Schmitt.
With 22,666 veterans living in Loudoun County, Virginia In 2019-2023, there are many people to be recognized this month. Even if you don’t have someone in your family who was in the military, you can still appreciate those around you whom you know have served by writing them a card, giving them a small gift, or even just saying thank you.
