NORFOLK, Va. — May is here and so is National Military Appreciation Month. The month-long observance honors the dedicated service of current and former military members.
Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1999, it encompasses several significant observances, including Loyalty Day on May 1, VE Day on May 8, Military Spouse Appreciation Day on the Friday before Mother's Day, Armed Forces Day on the third Saturday of May, and Memorial Day on the last Monday of the month.
This month-long recognition provides an opportunity for the nation to express gratitude and support for the military community, acknowledging their vital role in safeguarding freedom and national security.
Some businesses in the area are offering discounts for active military members and veterans for the month of May or all year long:
- Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Offering complimentary admission to military personnel and up to three direct dependents.
- Colonial Williamsburg: Offering complimentary admission on Memorial Day weekend for active-military, reservists, retired military and veterans and up to three dependents.
- Mission BBQ: Offering a free sandwich for active duty service members Monday through Friday during Armed Forces Week. Monday - Army, Tuesday - Marine Corps, Wednesday - Navy, Thursday - Air Force/Space Force, Friday - Coast Guard, Saturday - All Branches.
- Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium: Offering 15% discount off general admission tickets when booking with discount codes, must show ID at the park.
- Virginia Aquarium: Offering a $2 discount on adult and youth tickets with valid military ID.
- Virginia Living Museum: Offering $15 off membership for active duty military with valid ID.
