DEPARMENT: Intergovernmental Relations
SUBJECT:
A Resolution by the City Council of the City of San Antonio, Texas proclaiming the Friday before Mother's Day as "Military Spouse Appreciation Day."
SUMMARY:
On April 1, 2015 Councilman Gallagher sponsored a Council Consideration Request (CCR) in which he requested that the City of San Antonio pass a resolution proclaiming the Friday before Mother's Day as "Military Spouse Appreciation Day."
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Military Spouse Appreciation day began in 1984, through President Ronald Reagan's proclamation 5184 which recognized the importance of spousal commitment to the readiness and well-being of service members on active duty and in the National Guard and Reserve. In 1999, the U.S. Congress made Military Spouse Appreciation day an official part of National Military Appreciation Month. After congressional recognition the Department of Defense standardized the date by declaring the Friday before Mother's Day as Military Spouse Appreciation Day to show appreciation for the sacrifices of military spouses.
ISSUE:
Military Spouse Appreciation Day was created to honor the spouses of those who serve in any branch of the military. Each year, a day is set aside in the United States to recognize the powerful difference spouses make in the lives of service members. The City of San Antonio is known as "Military City USA" and is home to Joint Base San Antonio which encompasses Fort Sam Houston, Camp Bullis, Lackland Air Force Base and Randolph Air Force Base. The City works closely with our military partners on various issues and has long recognized the importance and benefits of the military community. America's military spouses are the backbone of the families who support our troops during mission deployment and reintegration. They are the silent heroes who are essential to the strength of the nation and they serve our country just like their loved ones. A resolution recognizing Military Spouse Appreciation Day would be in line with previous council action. The City Council's Governance committee recommended the resolution be forward to full Council consideration.
ALTERNATIVES:
There is currently no other reasonable alternative to this proposed resolution.
FICAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with the support of the resolution.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the resolution proclaiming the Friday before Mother's Day as "Military Spouse Appreciation Day."