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May is Military Service Appreciation Month
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Posted on Apr 13 2005
In recognition of the service of all active-duty and honorably discharged members of the U.S. military, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands will celebrate May 2005 as Military Service Appreciation Month.
Gov. Juan N. Babauta will declare the month at a proclamation signing ceremony today, 11am, at the Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe, Saipan.
“Taking the oath as a member of the U.S. armed forces is not only an act of service, but also one of sacrifice for both the member and their family,” said Babauta. “We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our fellow countrymen who have chosen to serve in uniform, and this month is an opportunity to show our appreciation and repay a bit of that debt.”
Activities for the month are expected to include an Armed Forces Day Picnic for service members and their families on May 21, a special Mass at Mt. Carmel Cathedral, a military discount drive among businesses, a swearing-in ceremony for new enlistees, a dedication of one Saturday at the “Taste of the Marianas” food festival to service members, a music concert, and more.
Thursday’s proclamation signing ceremony will also include the turnover of funds raised during Troop Fest 2004 to the Family Readiness Group of the Company E, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry.
Those invited to attend include soldiers, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen; retired veterans; family members of service men and women; and representatives of veterans associations.
Individuals or groups interested in joining the Military Service Appreciation Month committee to organize or support activities may call Ed Camacho at 670-664-2200 or e-mail Edward.Camacho1@us.army.mil. (PR)
