Top 10 Military Appreciation Gifts
May is National Military Appreciation Month, celebrating the sacrifices of current and former members of the Armed Forces as well as those who have died in the pursuit of freedom. This recognition began in 1999, and May was chosen as there are six national observances that highlight the contributions of those who have served. Loyalty Day is May 1st and is set aside for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States. Victory in Europe Day, also called VE Day, is celebrated May 8th while Armed Forces Day, celebrated on May 16, pays tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces. Military Spouses Day is also celebrated May 8th, acknowledging the support and sacrifices of those married to a member of the military. Finally, we celebrate Memorial Day on the last Monday of May to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. If you would like to recognize those in your life who have served our country and their families, these ten appreciation gifts are a great way to let them know you appreciate their service.
1. Personalized Mug or T-Shirt
Members of the military are known for enjoying a strong cup of coffee which is why a funny coffee mug is a great way to recognize someone who has served. You can find funny mugs related to their hobby, their service or with just a fun quote or saying. Another option is to give them a funny t-shirt that they can wear when out of uniform. If you can’t find a mug or shirt that fits, you can create one yourself, giving them a gift that is unique and personalized.
2. Coffee or Tea
A gift that includes a favorite brand of coffee or tea is another great option for Military Appreciation Month. You can find gift sets with a range of coffees and teas so that your friend or loved one can try new types of their favorite beverage. You can also find specific brands that they can use for that strong boost of caffeine to get them going in the morning or a soothing tea to help them unwind after a long day.
3. Flowers
Everyone loves getting flowers so why not send a beautiful bouquet of cut flowers to your favorite member of the Armed Forces. If you are not sure about cut flowers, you can choose a potted plant that they can enjoy for many years to come. A tree that can be planted in the yard is another option to recognize someone who dedicated their lives to serving the country. This is a great option of you are recognizing someone who died in the line of service and want to give their family something to keep their memory alive. The majority of military spouses are women and this is a great gift to give to someone who is supporting and sacrificing for the country due to the service of a spouse.
4. Candy
One thing that many service members who are stationed overseas talk about is how difficult it can be to find good chocolate. You can provide them with delicious, decadent chocolates that will satisfy even the biggest chocoholic in recognition of National Military Month. Choose a favorite brand or a variety selection that will allow them to try new tastes during deployment or even if they are state side.
5. Wine
Serving in the military can be very stressful which is why relaxing with a good glass of wine at the end of the night can be a stress reliever for many soldiers. Consider sending a nice bottle of wine or investing in a monthly wine club that allows your military friend or family member to try new wines each month. Wine clubs can be customized so that your friend or family member gets wines they enjoy, whether it is a crisp, cool white or a rich, dark red.
6. Monthly Clubs
Wine is not the only option for monthly clubs that members of the military will enjoy. You can find monthly clubs for almost any hobby, career or deployment. There are clubs that provide a monthly supply of dried meats, fitness equipment, golf accessories and more. No matter what your soldier or sailor likes to do in their off time, you can find great monthly clubs that they will appreciate.
7. Luggage
The military may provide duffel bags and other types of luggage, but when members of the military travel for person reasons, they prefer to use luggage that is more attractive. You can find all types of luggage, from laptop cases that fit under airplane seats, carry on luggage that fits easily in an overhead compartment or large suitcases designed for checked baggage. If you are not sure what type of luggage to purchase, you can also provide members of the military with luggage accessories such as wheeled carts, charging devices or luggage tags.
8. Tickets for an Event or Concert
Whether your favorite soldier or sailor is deployed, stationed at home or on leave, they will enjoy tickets for an event or concert in recognition of National Military Month. You can find tickets to concerts for a favorite group or singer as well as tickets to festivals and fairs that will interest your favorite member of the military. There are even events worldwide that will provide a deployed member with options when they have a few hours away from camp.
9. Pet Gift
We all know how our pets become part of our family and members of the military are no exception. A gift for a beloved pet will be especially appreciated by someone who is away from home or has placed their pet in the care of friends or family while they serve the country. A treat or toy for a dog, cat or other type of pet will be greatly appreciated by the soldier or sailor who loves them but may not be able to be with them.
10. Gift Cards
It can sometimes be difficult to figure out what exactly someone in the military may need, especially if they are stationed overseas or deployed. Gift cards are the perfect answer to this dilemma. You can find gift cards to specific stores, both brick-and-mortar or online. There are also gift cards to restaurants that have locations throughout the world. You can also choose one that can be used as cash so they can choose the gift that is exactly what they want.
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