Whereas there are approximately 2,000,000 retirees of the Armed Forces of the United States who have earned their retirement through career service, a service-connected disability, or both; Whereas military retirees show an unrivaled dedication to service, having faithfully served their country and dedicated much of their lives knowing that at any moment they could be sent anywhere in the world and possibly asked to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect and defend the national security of the United States; Whereas military retirees, through their perseverance and dedication— (1) have proven to be leaders who are resilient, focused, disciplined, well-trained, and well-educated; and (2) bring the best qualities of citizenship in the United States to lifelong service within their national and local communities as dependable, responsible citizens and neighbors; Whereas the qualities of a military retiree often result in positive contributions to— (1) the civilian workforce, as experienced and knowledgeable employees; (2) local educational institutions, as teachers, counselors, and coaches; (3) local government, as elected public servants; and (4) communities, as dedicated and effective volunteers; Whereas the dedication and focus of military retirees helps strengthen and stabilize local communities; and Whereas the contributions of military retirees to their communities are the manifestation of the desire of the retirees to continue their selfless acts of volunteering and their lifelong service to the United States: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates April 18, 2018, as Military Retiree Appreciation Day ; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to honor the past and continued service of military retirees to their local communities and the United States through appropriate ceremonies and other activities.