Many Americans celebrate Armed Forces Day annually on the third Saturday of May. It is a day to pay tribute to men and women who serve the United States armed forces. Armed Forces Day is also part of Armed Forces Week, which begins on the second Saturday of May. Armed Forces Day is reserved as a day to pay special tribute to our nation's men and women of the military forces that have defended our country day and night, insured our freedom, and upheld the beliefs and principles that this great nation was built on.
Wherever you're driving, make safety a top priority and keep in mind that most states have banned texting while driving. Learn more about distracted driving.
The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass
A new federal recreation pass is available that combines the benefits of existing recreation passes from five federal agencies into one comprehensive pass: “America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.” Frequent visitors to multiple federal agency lands may save money by buying this annual pass. Plus, 90% of the purchase price goes back to federal land agencies to help them protect these national treasures for generations to come.
The new pass program was created by the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, which Congress authorized in December 2004 and replaces the Golden Eagle, Golden Age, and the Golden Access Passports as well as the National Parks Pass. Existing passes will remain valid until expired.
The basic pass terms and conditions are listed below:
Cost $80
Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. Expires the last day of the month punched.
Includes two signature lines and any two individuals may sign the pass. Both are considered pass holders.
Admits pass holder and any accompanying passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee sites.
At per person fee sites, admits pass holder and up to three (3) persons age 16 and older. Children 15 and younger are admitted free of charge.
Photo identification may be required to verify ownership.
Passes are NON-REFUNDABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE, and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.
To plan your trip and determine if this pass is the right one for you, please contact the offices of the federal recreation sites where you plan to visit.
Other kinds of passes include:
Senior Pass -- $10 lifetime pass for U.S. citizens who are 62 years and older
Access Pass -- Free lifetime pass for permanently disabled U.S. citizens
Volunteer Pass -- Annual Pass awarded to volunteers who contribute 500 or more hours