This May, as the weather turns warmer and we begin to savor the freedom of the great outdoors, it is important to remember that some members of our communities will be far from home this spring. Actually, those people, the men and women of the United States Military, are the very ones we have to thank for our freedom. And just because they are out of sight should not mean they are out of mind.
For this reason, Congress has designated May as National Military Appreciation Month (www.nmam.org), an awareness campaign designed to “honor, remember, recognize and appreciate” everyone on active duty across all branches of service. It is a time for people throughout the country to rally in their communities and highlight their own hometown heroes. Simply put, it is a time to put all politics aside.
So what can you, as a business, do to show your customers that you are proud of our men and women in uniform? Try dedicating some space in your location to focus on area residents who are currently serving in the military. You can include photos, biographies and contact information for people who may want to stay in touch. You can even sponsor a letter-writing campaign with children at an area school or collect supplies like lip gloss, energy bars, CDs, and paperback books to bring a touch of home and comfort to those serving overseas.
Of course, be sure to acknowledge area veterans and their service too. Offer them a special discount or host a morning breakfast to thank them for their dedication. You can also volunteer at your local VFW or join local service-based organizations such as Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary, Shriner and Elks clubs to sponsor an event in their honor. Just don’t forget to invite the area newspapers and radio stations to the events, as well.
And, if you are not flying the Red, White, and Blue already, make sure your business is proudly displaying the American Flag throughout the month of May. Don’t wait for Memorial Day – make the entire month a celebration of what it means to be an American.
