Members of the Veterans Among US employee resource group encourages all UCOP colleagues to join them in recognizing National Military Appreciation Month — a designation formed by Congress in May 1999 to provide an opportunity for Americans to demonstrate their thanks and support for those who serve in the military today and those who have served in the past.

The month of May serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, dedication and resilience of our military community, as well as the families who support them every step of the way. VAUS expresses our deepest thanks to all who have served and reaffirms our commitment to supporting the military community. Your courage and sacrifices are never forgotten.

National Military Appreciation Month holidays

May 9, 2025: Military Spouse Day

On May 9, we marked Military Spouse Appreciation Day — a day to recognize and celebrate the contributions of those who are married to members of the Armed Forces. Originally introduced by President Reagan in 1984, Military Spouse Appreciation Day was formally instituted by Congress in 1999. Military Spouse Appreciation Day always falls the Friday before Mother’s Day.

May 16, 2025: Armed Forces Day

Celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May, Armed Forces Day is a tribute to the dedicated men and women serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s a moment for the nation to come together and recognize the courage, commitment and sacrifices of those who wear the uniform — past and present — in all six branches of the military: the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, including the National Guard and Reserve.

Established in 1949 by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson, Armed Forces Day replaced separate branch-specific celebrations, reflecting the unification of the military under the newly formed Department of Defense. The first official observance took place on May 20, 1950, with President Harry S. Truman proclaiming it a “combined demonstration by America’s defense team” and a symbol of national readiness and unity.

As we celebrate Armed Forces Day, Veterans Among US (VAUS) would like to take a moment to thank the brave individuals who serve and protect our country, and to honor their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our freedoms. Their dedication represents the very best of our nation.

May 26, 2024: Memorial Day

Memorial Day honors members of the Armed Forces who died while defending our country. It is observed annually on the last Monday of May. Originally known as Decoration Day, this holiday was formalized as a “Memorial Day Order” and celebrated on May 30 by Grand Army of the Republic Commander-in-Chief John A. Logan in 1868. Memorial Day was observed on May 30 until 1971, when Congress established Memorial Day as a federal holiday and fixed its observance on the last Monday in May.

Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend or the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn day of remembrance—an opportunity to reflect on the cost of freedom and to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in its defense. Across the country, people observe the day through ceremonies at cemeteries and monuments, patriotic displays, and moments of silence.

This day also serves to educate future generations about the realities of war and the profound sacrifices made by those in uniform. By remembering their courage, we not only pay tribute to those we’ve lost but also reaffirm the values of service, unity, and democracy that define our nation.

For veterans and civilians alike, Memorial Day is a powerful reminder: we are free because of the brave. Let us use this day to express our gratitude, preserve their memory, and commit to honoring their legacy always.

About Veterans Among US

Veterans Among US (VAUS) is dedicated to serving and supporting our local and military communities, along with the University of California and all its locations. Visit the VAUS ERG webpage to learn more. For questions or to join, contact vaus@ucop.edu.

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