Introduction

Military Spouse Day, also known as Military Spouse Appreciation Day, is celebrated on the Friday before Mother’s Day in the United States.

Many United States citizens take this day to acknowledge the significant contributions, support, and sacrifices of spouses of their Armed Forces.

Each year, the US President normally commemorates this day with a ceremonial speech and proclamation.

History

President Ronald Reagan recognised the profound importance of spouse commitment to the readiness and well-being of military members and declared 23 May 1984 the first Military Spouse Day with Proclamation 5184, dated 17 April 1984.

The US Secretary of Defence, Caspar Weinberger standardised the date by declaring the Friday preceding Mother’s Day as Military Spouse Day.

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