A Day in History: Military Spouse Appreciation Day


“Since the early days of the Continental Army, the wives of our servicemen have made unselfish contributions to the spirit and well-being of their fighting men and the general welfare of their communities.” – President Ronald Reagan, Proclamation 5184, April 17, 1984

The Friday before Mother's Day in May is a day set aside to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of the spouses of our U.S. Military troops. It is a day to honor those who are considered the backbone of the family, supporting their spouses wherever they have been deployed.

President Ronald Reagan recognized the importance of military spouses in 1984 with Proclamation 5184. He was the first to speak about the role of the military spouse in the welfare and comfort of their family. Since then every U.S. President has celebrated the day each year, encouraging us to recognize not only military personnel, but to also recognize those who have been there to selflessly support their spouses.

 It wasn’t until 1999 that Congress officially made Military Spouse Day part of National Military Appreciation Month. Recognition of Military Spouses is now celebrated each year on the Friday before Mother’s Day.

Five Fast Facts about Military Spouse Appreciation Day

  1. Just over 7% of military spouses are men.
  2. Military wives were discouraged from working outside the home until as recently as the mid-1980s.
  3. The first Military Spouse Appreciation day took place on May 23, 1984.
  4. Those in the military tend to marry at a younger age and have young children at home compared to civilians.
  5. Each year the U.S. President celebrates the day with a speech and a proclamation.

Please join Veterans Commemoratives (vetcom.com) in recognizing America’s military spouses for supporting their loved ones as they serve our country. Since 1987 it has been our privilege to honor those who have served, as well as those who are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces by providing customized military rings, watches, jackets and gift items.

Related products you may like:


Testimonials:

  • I received my United States MA-1 Bravo Jacket yesterday and I am very pleased with it. Thanks

    Charles W

  • Thank you very much for the two beautiful garments! Both the MA1-Bravo Jacket and the Concealed Carry Soft Shell Vest fit perfectly and are tailored to perfection. They are rugged and warm, exactly what I was looking for.

    Ed J.

  • I received the jacket this past Wednesday. I just love it. Good quality, feels great, and looks sharp. I have been looking for such a jacket the past few years and have finally found it.

    Edward A.

  • Dear Vetcom, Received the MA-1 Bravo Jacket yesterday. Thank you so very much, made a Veteran very happy. Was so hoping to have it on time for him to wear on Veterans Day and you made sure it was here in time. The jacket is beautiful and my husband just loves it. Again, thank you so very much and God bless.

    Jessie H.

More Testimonials...



More News & Stories:

Helping Female Veterans Return To Civilian Life

The United States armed forces have experienced a vast increase in the number of female personnel in active duty in the past couple of decades. That means that our nation has also seen an increase in the number of female veterans. This special group of women may have unique needs once they return to civilian life and can be assisted through the help of others like you.

Read more

April is National Stress Awareness Month

It is very common for veterans of our nation’s military forces to experience some level of stress when returning to civilian life. For some, this may be relatively short-lived while for others, it may be more extensive and even be in the form of posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Either way, sufferers can get help and with the focus on April as National Stress Awareness Month, now is the time to make your action plan to help alleviate some of your symptoms.

Read more

Show Your Appreciation For Vietnam Veterans

Most Vietnam veterans did not receive a warm homecoming from fellow Americans. It is time to show appreciation for Vietnam veterans that served our country.

Read more

The First Wars Fought With a Volunteer Army

Many Iraqi veterans volunteered to serve in the United States Armed Forces before 9/11 as a way to improve their country during a quiet time.  Others continued to volunteer for the United States Armed Forces well after 9/11 as they found it a calling.  Different Iraqi and Afghani veterans have taken different paths after service.  Some found the experience rewarding; some regretted volunteering; and some were able to move on to civilian life more easily than others.

Read more

Shattering Victim and Hero Stereotypes for Veterans

Most veterans cannot be lumped in one of two categories: a tertiary casualty of war or a war hero.  It is imperative that Americans find more opportunities for veterans to recognize personal accomplishments and move on to a brighter future in a civilian setting.  It is true that many veterans have scars from serving the United States in a time of war.

Read more