There are a great many monthly designations that politicians make. Some have to do with illnesses, while others address groups of people.

As a general proposition, all of these designations have a degree of merit while some are more compelling than others.

That’s the case with a designation Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made recently for May, setting aside the month as Military Appreciation Month “to honor and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our U.S. Armed Forces.”

“This month, Michiganders are reminded of the heroic contributions of our service members, both active and retired, who answered the call to defend our state and nation,” Whitmer said in a prepared statement. “I am proudly designating May as Military Appreciation Month and wish to extend Michigan’s gratitude to our military families who serve at home with unwavering support and solidarity.”

Military Appreciation Month, which was designated by Congress in 1999, “offers an opportunity for Michigan to pay tribute to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom,” we’ve been told.

Michiganders have served proudly in the armed forces of the United States in every war and conflict this nation has been involved with, starting with the Civil War.

One good way to show support for the military is to donate to a charity that supports veterans. The Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is accepting donations to help support military families with grants funding financial assistance at www.michigan.gov/dmva/military-family-relief-fund-donate.

Michigan Veteran Homes such as the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette is seeking monetary donations to support the life-enrichment fund, which is used to improve the quality of life for veteran members at www.thepayplace. com/mi/mva/donations/billpreview.aspx.

Please consider even a small donation. It’s a very good way to say thank you.