In the United States, November has been a month for family traditions and family celebrations. For more than a century, the nation has observed Armistice Day on Nov. 11. In the U.S. it is now Veterans Day.

November has also become a month when Americans express their appreciation for families of military personnel.

Military Family Appreciation Month was established in 1993 by the Armed Services YMCA, with the U.S. Government recognizing the occasion every year since. Each year the President signs a proclamation declaring November Military Family Month, the Dept. of Defense says. This annual proclamation marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of the Military Family in which the Department of Defense and the nation will honor the commitment and sacrifices made by the families of the nation’s service members.

“During Military Family Month, we thank military families for the tremendous contribution they make in support of our service members, the military mission and the nation. Military life imposes unique demands on them, and during these difficult times, they have exhibited exceptional sacrifice, resiliency and courage,” stated the DoD. “Families provide our Service members with invaluable encouragement and love, and manage the home front while their loved ones are deployed. As we approach the winter holiday season when families across the world come together, we pay special tribute to our deployed forces and their families, who are separated this holiday season. 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 nation understands that families also serve, and is honored to pay tribute to them.”

Military Family Appreciation Month is a time to recognize the contributions of family members of those who have served and are currently serving in the military. While many people thank military personnel and veterans for their service, supporting their families while they are deployed is a huge way of expressing that appreciation.

Supporting the military is important, and so is supporting their families. Military families often experience long separations, the emotional toll of having a loved one in the military, and often moving frequently.

Showing support can be as simple as displaying a flag, says Learning Liftoff.

Another simple gesture is to make a card.

“It’s a simple gesture, yet your words may be just the thanks, encouragement, or reassurance they need, stated Learning Liftoff. “Sit down with your kids and have a discussion about the military, and how their families are affected daily, so they can understand the true meaning behind the card.”

Armed Services YMCA National Headquarters suggests lending a hand to families of deployed military. Being there for military families and being willing to help is always appreciated. Whether it’s unpacking and getting settled into a new home, juggling household responsibilities and kids while a spouse is deployed or on duty, military families often have their hands full.

“One important thing to note is that it’s best to offer help in specific and concrete ways,” said YMCA. “Vague offers such as “Let us know if you need any help!” are kind, but are easily forgotten or dismissed. These sorts of offers put pressure on the military family to determine what they need and can leave them feeling awkward.”

Offer to be a friend, the website suggests. One of the most difficult things about being part of a military family is constantly having to say goodbye to friends and make new ones. On average, military families move once every three years, and with each of these moves, families must start all over again making new connections and finding new friends. Not only is this difficult and exhausting but it can also leave military families feeling alone and withdrawn.

“There are many ways to be a friend to military families,” stated ASYMCA. “If you have kids, encourage them to befriend new military kids at school and organize playdates with them. Invite that new military spouse over for coffee or a BBQ. Whatever it may be, just include them whenever and however you can.”

Sometimes the best way you can support a military family is just by being there to listen, says As\ASYMCA. Military life is tough and full of challenges and changes. Having someone to confide in or vent to can be important and helpful for military family members, adding:

“One thing to note about being a good listener is that not everyone who confides or vents to you is necessarily looking for advice. Often, they just need someone to talk to, so it’s important to listen first and only give your advice or opinion if asked. The most important thing is just to be there for them.”

Moving into the holiday season, it is important to let Armed Forces personnel, and their families, know that they are appreciated and valued.