Military veteran McDonnell recognizes May as Military Appreciation Month

This military man -- 21-year U.S. Army veteran who retired as a Lt. Colonel ... this father of a daughter who served in Iraq as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army -- has declared May as Military Appreciation Month.

His experience and background give him an understanding of what the military means to America and so it seems very appropriate that Gov. Bob McDonnell would recognize our men and women in uniform who sacrifice to protect our freedoms:

“Just last week another military unit stationed in Virginia, United States Navy Riverine Squadron 1, deployed from Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Virginia’s soldiers continue to serve bravely here at home and around the world in areas facing great conflict. It is because of the sacrifice and service of Virginia’s military members and veterans that each of us is able to enjoy the freedoms and opportunities we do each day.

Almost 200,000 Virginians are currently serving throughout the world and over 830,000 veterans have made Virginia their home after service. It is critical that we continue to support and recognize our military families, those currently serving and those who formerly served. That is why I have pledged to make Virginia the most veteran friendly state in America.

It is critical that our government better serves those who have voluntarily protected America for generations past and present. We’re proud of these men and women who are our neighbors, our friends and our family, and pause to pay special recognition this month to their great service to the Commonwealth and the nation.”

Go to the Governor's website to read the entire proclamation that ends:

WHEREAS, the citizens of Virginia wish to recognize, honor, and show appreciation for all service members, past and present, and their families, and to set aside the month of May to pay tribute to the sacrifices and service of the intrepid men and women of our armed forces;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize May 2010 as Military Appreciation Month in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

Hear, hear.