Across the country, Military Spouse Appreciation Day is celebrated the Friday before Mother’s Day. Although, it’s not just to thank wives. It’s also to celebrate husbands and family members who are the backbones and support systems for soldiers.

The 10th Annual Military Spouse Appreciation Day ceremony was held Friday at 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial in Johnstown.

Local military families, like the Girvins, attended; happy to be together.

“This is a day to say thank you to our military spouses for what they do behind the scenes,” said Lt. Col. Michael Girvin with the PA Army National Guard.

While soldiers are at home or overseas, spouses run their households, raise children and stay strong.

“Just the everyday, doing everything. The holidays by yourself and raising your kids and doing all that,” said Susan Girvin.

Even the little things can be hard, so small gestures of gratitude can go a long way.

“Mow the lawn if it hasn’t been mowed. Shovel the walks. Bring over dessert or dinner once in a while,” Tom Caulfield, President, Veteran Community Initiatives 

Girvin and his wife, Susan, have been through several deployments, so they know how hard deployments can be for military families. That’s why they say spouses need a little encouragement every now and then.

“They’re very important to keeping us successful so we can always focus on the mission,” Michael said.