May is National Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor those who are serving or have served in the U.S. military.
The observance was created through a bipartisan effort spearheaded by Sen. John McCain in 1999. The legislation was quickly approved by a unanimous vote in Congress.
May was selected because of the many military commemorations during the month, including its bookends — Loyalty Day (May 1) and Memorial Day, which this year falls on Monday, May 27.
In between are Public Service Recognition Week (May 5-11); Victory in Europe Day, also known as V-E or VE Day (May 8); Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 10); Children of Fallen Patriots Day (May 13); and Armed Forces Day (May 18).
As a sign of appreciation for their service, a special commemorative certificate signed by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy will be sent to the home of every known USPS veteran.
In addition, veterans marking a five-year USPS service anniversary during the fiscal year that began Oct. 1, 2023, will receive a challenge coin and thank-you card signed by Deputy Postmaster General and Chief Human Resources Officer Doug Tulino.
Employees who are veterans are encouraged to update their mailing addresses via MyHR.
The Postal Service has long paid tribute to the armed forces through its stamp program. Some of the more recent releases include Go for Broke: Japanese American Soldiers of WWII (2021); the Purple Heart Medal (2019); Military Working Dogs (2019); and the Service Cross Medals (2016).
For more information regarding veteran recognition, email the USPS Military Affairs team.