The Flagpole Newsletter Edition 118 | May 2026

National Military Appreciation Month

(Photo credit: Charlie Meier)

National Military Appreciation Month is observed annually in May and is meant to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of those who currently serve in the military, as well as those who served in the past. It was established in 1999 to bring greater attention to the contributions of service members and their families. Key observances include Military Spouse Appreciation Day (observed the Friday before Mother's Day), Armed Forces Day (third Saturday of the month), and Memorial Day.

AWF-Trident University International 2026 Scholarship Applications are OPEN

Eligibility for the scholarships is determined by factors such as merit, academic potential, community service, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated financial need. Trident University International's grants and scholarships follow established guidelines found in the University’s Catalog or on its website, and awards are given once eligibility requirements are confirmed. For more information on the scholarship, visit https://www.awfdn.org/scholarships/awf-trident/ or contact our office at info@awfdn.org.

2027 Hall of Fame and Champion Nominations NOW Open

The 2027 U.S. Army Women's Foundation Hall of Fame and Champion nomination forms are now open. Annually, the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation honors the service and sacrifices of U.S. Army women through our Hall of Fame Induction and Champion Awards program. A woman Soldier whose service reflects extraordinary contributions, dedication, valor, and patriotism, and has had a direct and exceptional impact on the Army and our nation, both while serving in the Army and post-service are eligible for induction into the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame. Our Champion Awards are presented to any individual who has made exceptional contributions to Army Women or Women Veterans. We are now accepting nominations through August 10, 2026.

For program information and nomination forms, please visit our website.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is celebrated in May and pays tribute to and honors the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. The month is marked by cultural festivals, educational programs, art exhibits, and community events across the country that highlight influential figures and explore the rich diversity within Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.

Memorial Day 2026

The Military Women's Memorial Annual Memorial Day Program

The Military Women's Memorial Annual Memorial Day Program is free and open to the public, and includes formal military honors, remarks from current and former servicewomen from each of the military services, and a keynote address.

National Memorial Day Concert

The National Memorial Day Concert pays tribute to our veterans, service members, and military families. This heartfelt event brings the nation together to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Mark your calendars for May 24, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. ET and don’t miss the re-airing at 9:30 p.m. ET. The concert will air on PBS and the American Forces Network; and for those who prefer to stream, it will be available on PBS' official website, YouTube, the PBS app, and PBS.org, and you’ll have two weeks after the live broadcast to watch. (PBS)

Meet the AWF Board

Sponsor Spotlight

The Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA) is dedicated to the Army Nurse Corps and its officers. It is a voluntary membership organization consisting of Army nurses who are Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard, whether currently serving, previously served, or retired. Their vision is to connect generations of Army Nurses to continue the legacy of excellence in Army Nursing.