Valor isn’t just shown on the battlefield — it lives in the silent sacrifices made by military families alongside their loved ones in uniform. Their resilience, unwavering courage, and endless support serve as a reminder that valor extends far beyond the front lines. Physical, mental, and emotional sacrifices are made daily within the military community. This Military Appreciation Month, let’s honor those who serve behind the scenes.

Think of a time when you or someone you know showed great bravery in uncertainty. It may be the first time your spouse had to leave, and you had to double the load while they were gone. Perhaps it was when one of your closest military spouse friends had to suddenly move to a different duty station. The difficult sacrifices we make are a testament to our strength and courage.

Saying Goodbye

Military families make countless sacrifices — from enduring long deployments, missed milestones with children, and the endless uncertainty that comes with service, we go through a lot. My husband and I’s first big sacrifice was when he had to leave for his very first rotation. (For those unaware, a rotation is a non-combat deployment.)

As we shared our final hug before his departure, I tried to commit everything about that moment to memory, determined not to forget how his hugs felt while he was away. I felt tears stinging in the corners of my eyes as the warmth of his uniform left my arms for the last time in a long while. I will especially remember him during this Military Appreciation Month.

I thought not only of how hard it would be to live without him for several months but also of the many military families around me — from parents with children saying goodbye not only to their partner but also to their co-parent, to those without children, like me, coping with an empty house. That day was a true testament to our bravery and the immense sacrifices we make on a daily basis.

Never Feel Afraid to Ask for Help

While these sacrifices may feel overwhelming, there are resources available — whether your spouse is deployed or home. The Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) offers numerous opportunities for those in the military community. If you’re running low on food or can’t reach a grocery store, ASYMCA provides food assistance.

ASYMCA locations also offer after-school programs and early childhood education. Some even offer short-term childcare, allowing you to run errands. These programs provide military children with a supportive environment in which to learn and grow.

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of your resources. ASYMCA can help you build a village during difficult times and continue to support you beyond them. These support systems help us navigate uncertainty and stay strong. Military families, take advantage of these resources during Military Appreciation Month.

How To Support Military Families During Military Appreciation Month (And All Year Round)

• Check in on your friends and family: A strong support system starts with letting someone know they have a safe space. A simple text can ease the burden.
• Listen actively: Let them share without judgment or unsolicited advice. Being heard matters.
• Offer physical support: Help cook, run errands, or handle tasks while their spouse is away. Small actions ease big burdens.
• Send care packages: Fill them with essentials, goodies, and gifts for service members stationed far from home.
• Donate to programs like ASYMCA: Your support helps deliver financial, mental, and educational resources to the military community. Help grow their village!

Lean On Each Other

Support systems and resources are vital for getting through the rough patches, from parents and friends to organizations like ASYMCA. We are grateful to those who help us stay afloat during deployments, relocations, and separation from family.

There is strength behind every uniform — not just in those who wear it, but in those who stand beside them. From military spouses to their children and all involved in the military community, we all face hardships. But these trials don’t define us — they shape us. During Military Appreciation Month, remember: we are strong, brave, and full of valor.

If you would like to support military families, consider donating to the ASYMCA. This Military Appreciation Month, your gift will be doubled, dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000, thanks to our partner Aquarian. Your contribution helps us continue providing vital assistance to those who need it most.

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Special thanks to Aquarian for their generous support.