2025 Military Appreciation Month Offers Discounts for Service Members

A soldier assigned to Joint Task Force Southern Border adjusts a night observation device at sunset during readiness training in Wellton, Ariz., April 18, 2025 - Photo by Army 2nd Lt. Erica Esterly

WASHINGTON — Military Appreciation Month in May 2025 honors U.S. service members, veterans, and their families with a range of discounts from businesses nationwide. The month, which includes Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 9, Armed Forces Day on May 17, and Memorial Day on May 26, features promotions across retail, dining, travel, and more, recognizing the sacrifices of the military community.

Retail and Apparel Savings

Retailers are offering significant discounts for military personnel. Under Armour provides up to 50% off outlet items with an additional 30% off using the code EXTRA30, and 20% off regular-priced items for verified active-duty members, veterans, retirees, and their families. Academy Sports + Outdoors offers 10% off online and in-store purchases through July 4. Lowe’s provides a 10% everyday military discount on most full-price items, with added perks like free Silver Key status in its MyLowe’s Rewards program.

AARP salutes veterans and military members with up to 45% off memberships, granting access to dining and travel savings. Rack Room Shoes offers 20% off in-store purchases on Memorial Day for military ID holders.

Dining and Hospitality Offers

Restaurants and hospitality businesses are joining the celebration. Wendy’s, through its partnership with WeSalute, offers discounts for veterans, service members, and families, though specific terms vary by location. Navy Federal Credit Union members can enjoy celebratory dining deals, including a 15% discount at Clique Hospitality’s Las Vegas-area restaurants, such as Borracha Mexican Cantina and The Still.

ZIPS Cleaners provides 10% off dry cleaning, laundered shirts, and wash-and-fold laundry throughout May with a military or veteran ID.

Travel and Entertainment Perks

Theme parks and travel providers are making vacations more accessible. SeaWorld and Busch Gardens offer free one-day admission for U.S. military veterans and up to three guests, with tickets reservable online by May 11 and usable by July 6. Active-duty members receive free admission year-round. Six Flags Theme Parks provide free single-day admission for service members and veterans from May 23-26, with discounted tickets for up to six family members.

The Blue Star Museums program, a collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, offers free admission to active-duty personnel, including National Guard and Reserves, and their families from May 17 through Sept. 1. Colonial Williamsburg provides free single-day admission for service members, veterans, and up to three dependents over Memorial Day weekend.

Vail Resorts offers a $185 Military Epic Pass for the 2025-2026 ski season for service members, retirees, and dependents, covering dozens of U.S. resorts.

Automotive and Financial Benefits

Navy Federal Credit Union commemorates the month with financial perks, including a 0.25% reduction on VA loan rates, a $200 bonus for refinancing an auto loan of at least $5,000, and a $50 bonus for opening a credit card within 14 days of joining. Ford, through its Military Appreciation Program, offers $500 toward vehicle purchases, alongside similar deals from Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota.

Midas provides 15% off tire and auto repair services at participating U.S. locations with a valid government ID through year-end.

How to Redeem Offers

Most discounts require proof of service, such as a military ID, VA card, or DD214 form. Online verifications often use platforms like ID.me, WeSalute, or GovX. Businesses may post specific terms, including exclusions or location-based variations, on their websites. For example, Ollie’s Outlet requires Ollie’s Army membership for its 10% off event on May 6.

A Month of Gratitude

Military Appreciation Month, designated by Congress in 1999, highlights the contributions of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, and National Guard. Businesses use this time to foster community support, offering savings that ease financial burdens for military families.

For updated offers, check Military.com, Veteran.com, or local business websites. Social media posts with #MilitaryAppreciationMonth, as seen on X, also share real-time deals.