November 2024: Veterans and Military Families Month

WHEREAS, November is a time, by tradition, for family celebrations; it is also a month in which we set aside time to honor our veterans and military families by recognizing their sacrifices and celebrating their successes; and,

WHEREAS, as we recognize November as Veterans and Military Families Month, we thank military families for the tremendous contributions they make in support of our service members, their mission, our state, and the nation; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is home to more than 530,000 veterans, and nearly 10,000 Air and Army National Guard members and their families; and,

WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices of the members who served in the Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining our freedoms and way of life; our veterans are brave and selfless individuals who, when duty called, willingly put themselves in harm's way to defend the lives and liberty of others; and,

WHEREAS, as we approach the winter holiday season when families across Michigan come together, we pay special tribute to our deployed forces and their families; and,

WHEREAS, the dedication and strength of military families during a sustained high operational tempo, increased deployment, and long separations is an inspiration to us all; the State of Michigan understands that families also serve, and is honored to pay tribute to them; and,

WHEREAS, we recognize and honor Michigan's veterans and all military families who support our armed forces as they protect our state and country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2024 as Veterans and Military Families Month in Michigan.