It seems that the last Monday of May is somehow right around the corner, (I’m sorry but who allowed time to fly by like this?) and although this unofficial summer kick off can mean vacations and BBQs for some, it is important to set aside some time to not only recognize fallen soldiers, but also the living that continue to selflessly defend our country. Pierce County is the home to the service members of JBLM and their family members, and the presence of military personnel does not go unrecognized. Tacoma and Pierce County make sure to show that appreciation by offering deals and discounts exclusive for the men and women committed to serving this great nation.

That said, we’ve compiled a list of several discounts that Tacoma will be offering in order to pay tribute to these selfless soldiers.

The Blue Star program

Several museums in Pierce County participate in the Blue Star program, in which more than 2,000 museums across America offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve and their families each summer from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum. The military ID holder may bring up to five family members, all eligible for free admission.
 
Plus, the active-duty member does not have to be present for family members to use the program.
 
For more information about Blue Star, please check out the FAQ page: https://www.arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums/frequently-asked-questions
 
Some museums in collaboration with Blue Star include;

Discounts for servicemembers

The Tacoma Mall will also be offering discounts to those with a valid military ID
Stores; Apple, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Eddie Bauer, Foot Locker Gap, Macy’s, just to name a few
If you’re looking to grab a bite. BJ’s and Blazing Onion will be having some discounts as well.
 
Also the Scout Military Discounts App recently launched in Pierce County. This map-based app is helpful for servicemembers here in Pierce County to find thousands of discounts available to them.
 

Local observance

Tacoma’s Memorial Day celebration will be held at War Memorial Park from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.