Hidden Heroes Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Hidden Heroes Month

WHEREAS, more than 5.5 million military and veteran caregivers nationwide, who are parents, spouses, siblings, and friends, are caring for those wounded, ill or injured who have served our nation throughout wars and conflicts; and

WHEREAS, the daily tasks of these caregivers can include bathing, feeding, dressing, and caring for serious injuries of wounded warriors, administering medications, providing emotional support, caring for the family and the home, and working outside the home to earn essential income; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth and the nation provide multi-faceted support to our wounded, ill, and injured veterans and service members through public, private, and philanthropic resources, but their caregivers receive little support or acknowledgement for their selfless sacrifices; and

WHEREAS, most caregivers consider the challenging work they do as showing unconditional love or their civic and patriotic duty, without realizing they are, in fact, categorized as caregivers; and

WHEREAS, according to research commissioned by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, an alarming number of caregivers are suffering numerous debilitating mental, physical, and emotional effects as a result of the many mental, physical, and financial duties of caregiving; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia desires to recognize and support those who are serving in these vital roles in our own communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize August 2023, as HIDDEN HEROES MONTH in the Commonwealth of Virginia to honor and support those who are serving vital roles in the Commonwealth as military and veteran caregivers and call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations