service members

Honoring Service on Armed Forces Day

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Today is Armed Forces Day—a time to recognize and honor the men and women currently serving in all branches of the United States military. First observed on May 20, 1950, this national holiday was established following the unification of the military services under the Department of Defense.

The day was created to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard Days and to acknowledge the collective strength and dedication of our armed forces. The first celebration featured parades, open houses, air shows, and displays of military technology.

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy issued a proclamation making Armed Forces Day an official national holiday, further solidifying its place in American tradition. It is now held annually on the third Saturday in May.

Armed Forces Day also falls within National Military Appreciation Month, a time that includes several key observances:

  • Loyalty Day (May 1)
  • Public Service Recognition Week (first full week of May)
  • Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day) (May 8)
  • Military Spouse Appreciation Day (Friday before Mother’s Day)
  • Memorial Day (last Monday in May)

We salute our service members for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice. From our AFA Chapter, we extend our gratitude to all who wear the uniform, and those who support them in service to our nation.

Mojave Desert Land Trust New Program For Veterans and Service Members

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From the Mojave Desert Land Trust…

The Mojave Desert Land Trust and Mil-Tree are excited to partner on a new program connecting servicemembers to the desert landscape through relaxing and immersive outdoor activities. 

Attend our launch party on Saturday, February 22 at the Mojave Desert Land Trust headquarters (60124 Twentynine Palms Highway in Joshua Tree) from 10am-1pm to connect with fellow veterans and register for the program’s inaugural guided birdwatching hike at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve.

RSVP is required and space is limited.

Please reserve your spot on Eventbrite. For more information, contact ella@mdlt.org or call 760-366-5440 x243. 

Guest speakers Chris Proudfoot (retired USMC) and Barry Scanlan (retired USMC) will discuss the history of military engagement in the California desert and volunteering as a way of connecting with the environment. MDLT Public Policy Officer Krystian Lahage will share with us historic places of interest in Chuckwalla and Mojave Trails National Monuments, and Big Morongo Canyon Preserve staff will endear us to the rare riparian ecosystem found right here in the desert. We’d also love to hear your thoughts about how Force of Nature can best support you! Complimentary refreshments will be provided. 

Force of Nature is a partnership between Mojave Desert Land Trust and Mil-Tree, with support from Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. This project is made possible through the Veterans and Nature Grant Program, from the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) in partnership with the USDA Forest Service.