Military Appreciation Day
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Military Appreciation Day is any event intended to express appreciation for men and women currently (and sometimes formerly) in military service, just like Armed Forces Day. A particular "Military Appreciation Day" is a date selected for convenience, typically but not necessarily approximate to Veterans Day or Memorial Day nor Armed Forces Day.
The NHL's New York Islanders first instituted a "Military Appreciation Day" in 2007. Their 2008 commemoration coincided with November 11, and was attended by former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, who dropped the ceremonial first puck of that game.[1] The Islanders intend each year's "Military Appreciation Day" to be the home game closest to Veterans Day.
The New York Jets of the NFL's American Football Conference have commemorated “Jets Military Appreciation Day” since 2000. Recent dates include November 19, 2006; November 4, 2007; and November 9, 2008.[2][3][4]
In 2015, it was reported that the United States Department of Defense provided millions in funding to professional sports organizations in exchange for pro-military messaging, such as a "salute" to active duty soldiers and war veterans.[5][6]
Zoos
Hawaii – The USO Hawaii sponsored the first Military Appreciation Day at the Honolulu Zoo in 2005. In 2008, the event was on Saturday, June 28.[7][8]
Virginia – The USO and the Virginia Zoo hosted a 2008 "MAD" on Sunday, October 5.[9][10]
Washington – Near Tacoma, Washington, the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium celebrated MAD on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 with free admission for active duty military, veterans and their families.[11]