1Designating May 9, 2014, as "Military Spouse Appreciation Day"
2in Pennsylvania.

3WHEREAS, In 1969, the Military Wives Association was formed
4by a small group of wives and widows who gathered to voice their
5concerns about inadequate support for military families who had
6lost loved ones; and

7WHEREAS, In 1984, Military Spouse Appreciation Day was first
8celebrated when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the
9observance to honor the contributions of military spouses; and

10WHEREAS, Military spouses embody the courage, sense of duty
11and love of country that inspire every American; and

12WHEREAS, Military spouses make tremendous sacrifices,

1including enduring long separations, assuming household
2responsibilities and caring for children while their loved ones
3are away; and

4WHEREAS, Military spouses act with patience, selflessness and
5compassion while serving as the front line of this country's
6conscience to ensure the appropriate care of soldiers returning
7from duty with serious conditions, including traumatic brain
8injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder; and

9WHEREAS, Many military spouses are also volunteers in their
10communities who serve the needs of other military families; and

11WHEREAS, The nation benefits from the sacrifices of military
12families, and is inspired by their courage, strength and
13leadership; and

14WHEREAS, On Military Spouses Appreciation Day and throughout
15the year, we honor the commitment military spouses have made to
16their loved ones, our country and freedom; therefore be it

17RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives designate May 9,
182014, as "Military Spouse Appreciation Day" in Pennsylvania.