Photos: (Getty)
May is Military Appreciation Month, and whether you're into camo and combat boots or tie-dye and peace signs, there's no denying the sacrifice our servicemen and women make for our country. You may be surprised to learn that some of your fave celebs grew up in military families!
+ Jessica Alba
After discovering that Jessica Alba's 18-year-old mom was expecting, her father, Mark, joined the U.S. Air Force to better provide for his family. In a recent visit with high school girls with military parents, the actress and self-professed "military brat" described her father's reasoning, saying, "My mother was 18, and he wanted to get an education, and he wanted to support his family, and so the military allowed him to do that."
+ Nolan Gould
We recently spoke to 14-year-old "Modern Family" star Nolan Gould about his experiences growing up in a military family. "My dad was in the military," he said, "It was difficult sometimes, because he would have to be away a lot, and we would have to move around a lot. Trying to adapt to new schools and new places can be really tough." While we often celebrate the country's service members, we should also acknowledge their strong and patient families. The National Military Family Association helps families cope with the physical, mental, academic and financial stresses of having a loved one on duty.
+ Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera moved several times as a child while her father served in the U.S. Army. Although Christina isn't close to her pops, her "Candyman" video proves she suuuure does love them Navy boys!
+ Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris wouldn't be the a-- kickin' ginger he is today if it weren't for the military! It was in the Air Force, while stationed in Korea, that he discovered his passion for martial arts. Nearly one in five vets who have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression, but less than half of them are getting adequate care. Chuck is an advocate for veterans, asking that communities better serve the people who serve our country.
Here are a few easy ways to celebrate Military Appreciation Month.
+ Acknowledge. When you see someone in a military uniform, shake hands and thank them for serving our country.
+ Celebrate. Rock red, white and blue on your house, car or business.
+ Care. Send a care package to a soldier through USO.
+ Contact. Send an email or letter of appreciation through A Million Thanks.
+ Help. Adopt a veteran through Soldier's Angels.
For more ways to give back, take action below.
