MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY 2026

R 071911Z MAY 26
ALMAR 010/26
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY 2026//
1. In May 1984, President Ronald Reagan established the first
Military Spouse Appreciation Day to formally highlight the
contributions of military spouses and their impact on mission
readiness. Marine Corps spouses ensure their Marines can focus on
the mission and they enable higher states of personal and family
readiness. Throughout military life, whether it's during a PCS,
deployment, training, or adjusting to new units and communities,
Marine Corps spouses face change and challenges with strength and
dedication. They often do so while working, going to school,
raising children, and volunteering. This dedication to their
Marines, families, and communities is unmatched and demonstrates the
unique qualities of Marine Corps spouses. They are the rock of this
Marine Corps.
2. This year, we celebrate military spouses on May 8, 2026. On this
day and throughout the year, may our Marine spouses know that we are
grateful for the ways they support their Marines, families, and the
mission of the U.S. Marine Corps. Without them, our Marines would
not be our Nation's Expeditionary Force in Readiness.
3. Trish and I are thankful for you, your resilience, and
dedication. Marines, on this day that we highlight the ways spouses
impact the Marine Corps, we encourage you to recognize your spouse
with a thank you to show your appreciation.
4. Semper Fidelis! Eric M. Smith, General, U.S. Marine Corps,
Commandant of the Marine Corps.//