Saturday is Armed Forces Day, and in honor of the sacrifices they make, servicemembers and their families will have the opportunity to enter every national park in the country for free. Military members will be able to pick up a year-long pass free of charge, gaining access to more than 2,000 parks, wildlife refuges and public areas, according to The Associated Press.
The initiative will likely cost the National Park Service between $2 million and $6 million, but it is not about the money. While it may be a small gesture, second lady Dr. Jill Biden believes it is a good way to show national support for the country's soldiers.
"Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our servicemen and women who make great sacrifices to protect our country and preserve our freedom," Biden told the AP. "In recognition of their service, we are so pleased to be putting out a welcome mat for our military families at America's most beautiful and storied sites."
Providing easy access to national parks for active duty military personnel and veterans has been a priority as of late. Last year, Sen. Jon Tester introduced a bill that would offer servicemembers half price annual passes as well as a $10 lifetime pass for military retirees, CNN reports.