Always Remember, Never Forget – May 2019

Mexican-American War (Apr 25, 1846 – Feb 2, 1848)

“The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) marked the first U.S. armed conflict chiefly fought on foreign soil. It pitted a politically divided and militarily unprepared Mexico against the expansionist-minded administration of U.S. President James K. Polk, who believed the United States had a “manifest destiny” to spread across the continent to the Pacific Ocean. A border skirmish along the Rio Grande started off the fighting and was followed by a series of U.S. victories. When the dust cleared, Mexico had lost about one-third of its territory, including nearly all of present-day California, Utah, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico.”

https://www.history.com/topics/mexican-american-war/mexican-american-war

Civil War (Apr 12, 1861 – May 9, 1865)

The Civil War in the United States began in 1861, after decades of simmering tensions between northern and southern states over slavery, states’ rights and westward expansion. The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 caused seven southern states to secede and form the Confederate States of America; four more states soon joined them. The War Between the States, as the Civil War was also known, ended in Confederate surrender in 1865. The conflict was the costliest and deadliest war ever fought on American soil, with some 620,000 of 2.4 million soldiers killed, millions more injured and much of the South left in ruin.

https://www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war/american-civil-war-history

May is National Military Appreciation Month

National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) is celebrated every May and is a declaration that encourages U.S. citizens to observe the month in a symbol of unity. NMAM honors the current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who have died in the pursuit of freedom.  The month of May is characterized by six national observances which highlight the contributions of those who have served.

Read more: https://militarybenefits.info/national-military-appreciation-month/#ixzz5mhChX6Mw

Silver Service Banner Day (May 1)

Every May 1 Americans honor the sacrifices of the combat wounded, ill and dying service members on Silver Star Service Banner Day.

Across all branches of The United States military, Silver Star families are honored for their services with the symbol of the Silver Star Service Banner and Flag.  We are encouraged on May 1 to take the opportunity to do the same.

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/silver-star-service-banner-day-may-1/

VE Day (May 8)

On this day in 1945, both Great Britain and the United States celebrate Victory in Europe Day. Cities in both nations, as well as formerly occupied cities in Western Europe, put out flags and banners, rejoicing in the defeat of the Nazi war machine.

The eighth of May spelled the day when German troops throughout Europe finally laid down their arms: In Prague, Germans surrendered to their Soviet antagonists, after the latter had lost more than 8,000 soldiers, and the Germans considerably more; in Copenhagen and Oslo; at Karlshorst, near Berlin; in northern Latvia; on the Channel Island of Sark—the German surrender was realized in a final cease-fire. More surrender documents were signed in Berlin and in eastern Germany.

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/victory-in-europe

Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 10)

National Military Spouse Appreciation Day is celebrated on the Friday before Mother’s Day in May.  This year it will be observed on Friday, May 10th, 2019.National Military Spouse Appreciation Day

On Military Spouse Appreciation Day we honor the contributions and sacrifices made by military spouses. Their commitment and support help to keep our country safe.  America’s military spouses are the backbone of the families who support our troops during mission, deployment, reintegration and reset. Military spouses are silent heroes who are essential to the strength of the nation, and they serve our country just like their loved ones.

In celebration of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, the armed forces have special events and programs to inform, honor, and recognize military spouses around the world. Events range from spouse appreciation luncheons to educational workshops, and spouse employment fairs that pay tribute to military spouses.

Read more: https://militarybenefits.info/military-spouse-appreciation-day/#ixzz5mhElYWnN

Armed Forces Week (May 11 -19)

Armed Forces Week typically is celebrated in the week leading up to Armed Forces Day (the third Saturday in May). For American service members, Armed Forces Week is an occasion to remember past and present service for all branches of the service; once upon a time there was a separate occasion for each branch of the military, later consolidated into a single remembrance.

Read more: https://militarybenefits.info/armed-forces-week/#ixzz5mhFIjw1l

National Maritime Day (May 22)

National Maritime Day is observed annually in the United States on May 22.  Created to recognize the maritime industry National Maritime Day also honors America’s Merchant Marines for their contributions and sacrifices for our country.   Special acknowledgment is given to ships and seafarers that have held a prominent place in our nation’s history.

As one of the oldest industries, it has time-honored traditions and a rich and full history. Celebrations and ceremonies around the country will recognize the people our maritime nation depends on.  Each year the Department of Transporation holds a national ceremony in Washinton D.C. There is a national ceremony in Washington D.C. at the Department of Transportation headquarters.

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-maritime-day-may-22/

Memorial Day (May 27)

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2018 occurs on Monday, May 28. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history