On Saturday, May 23, the Veterans Council of Northampton organized Armed Forces Family Appreciation Day at Look Park. The event kicked off at 9:30 AM with a 5K road race, and later held events such as face painting, a live band, lawn games, and a free barbecue.

This event's focus was not only honoring Northampton's veterans, but their families as well. Families are commonly overlooked when considering veteran needs, and military spouses often face trying circumstances when their partners are deployed.

Many veteran organizations, such as the Veterans Crisis Hotline, set up booths to provide information and services to veterans and their families.

This was the first annual Armed Forces Appreciation Day, and is scheduled to return next Memorial Day weekend.