WHEREAS, Washington state is home to more than 37,000 military spouses of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members connected to installations including Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Naval Base Kitsap, Naval Station Everett, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, and Fairchild Air Force Base and over 310,000 military spouses of veterans who enrich our state through their service, volunteerism and workforce contributions; and
WHEREAS, military spouses demonstrate extraordinary resilience as they navigate career disruptions, licensing barriers and frequent moves, while continuing to pursue education, professional advancement and community leadership by volunteering in schools, mentoring other families, supporting military-connected youth, and providing critical networks of care for fellow military families; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Military Spouse Employment Act helps reduce barriers to professional licensing and supports military spouses in overcoming challenges in obtaining meaningful employment; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Military Spouse Initiative brings together state agencies, military installations, nonprofit organizations, and private sector partners to expand career pathways, increase economic mobility, and improve outcomes for military spouses; and
WHEREAS, through strong partnerships and collaborative efforts across Washington state, communities and employers are working together to ensure military spouses are welcomed, supported and empowered to thrive; and
WHEREAS, recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of military spouses strengthens our commitment to expanding employment, education and professional mobility opportunities and ensures they are welcomed, valued and empowered in every community across Washington state;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Bob Ferguson, governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim
May 2026 as
Military Spouse Appreciation Month
in Washington, and I encourage all Washingtonians to join me in honoring the service and sacrifices of military spouses throughout the month of May.
Signed this 4th day of May, 2026
Governor Bob Ferguson