The Department of Defense (DOD) celebrates several special observances and awareness months annually in support of Joint Congressional Resolution, Presidential Proclamation, and achievements of all groups that comprise the society of the United States. Since 1968, the Department of Defense (DOD) has supported ethnic observances through the development of local programs of recognition and many diverse activities. Activities are designed to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all military members, their families, and the civilian work force. These activities are extensions of the equal opportunity education and training objectives. They are set aside to recognize the achievements and contributions made by members of specific minority groups, women, and individuals with disability in our society. The focus of the observance should be directed towards encouraging interaction and not just recognition. For more information about DoD special observances and awareness months, please visit DEOMI's website. 

The DoD theme for the May 2024 observance of the Days of Remembrance is “Behind Every Name a Story: The Courageous.” The poster honors a courageous rescuer, Adolfo Kaminsky. An Argentine-born member of the French Resistance, Kaminsky masterfully forged identification papers, passports, food ration cards, and other documents to save the lives of over 10,000 Jews, many of them children. He risked his life and his health, losing his sight in one eye, to become one of the greatest rescuers during World War II.

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PLEASE NOTE: NDU lists only observances directed by the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD P&R) and as established by law, bill, or resolution of Congress. Nothing precludes an organization from creating their own theme or using previously published themes. Organizations are not required to limit their special observances to just those reflected here. Organizations are reminded that special observances are conducted to recognize the continuous achievements of all Americans to American culture and to increase awareness, mutual respect, and understanding. They are designed to enhance cross-cultural and cross-gender awareness and promote harmony among all military members, their families, and the DOD civilian workforce.