By Jason Stverak
Every year on the first Friday in June, Americans celebrate National Donut Day with a simple pleasure: enjoying one of our nation’s favorite treats. For many, it is a fun occasion marked by a morning stop at a local bakery or coffee shop.
But National Donut Day is much more than a celebration of a beloved pastry. It is a day rooted in service, sacrifice, and support for those who serve our nation, a history that resonates deeply with the mission of defense credit unions across America.
National Donut Day traces its origins back to World War I. In 1917, a group of dedicated volunteers from The Salvation Army traveled to France to support American troops serving on the front lines. Among these volunteers were women who became known as the “Donut Lassies.” Working under extraordinarily difficult conditions, they provided soldiers with comfort, encouragement, and a small taste of home. Using limited ingredients and makeshift equipment, they famously prepared donuts for troops stationed in challenging wartime environments.
The gesture may have seemed simple, but its impact was profound. For young Americans serving far from home, those donuts represented more than a snack. They symbolized care, compassion, and the unwavering support of a grateful nation. Historical accounts note that Salvation Army volunteers served donuts and coffee to troops from huts near the front lines, helping boost morale during difficult conditions. The Donut Lassies became enduring symbols of humanitarian support and resilience. In 1938, during the Great Depression, The Salvation Army established National Donut Day to honor these volunteers and raise funds for people in need. Since then, the observance has been celebrated annually on the first Friday of June.
Nine Decades Later
Nearly nine decades later, the values behind National Donut Day remain as relevant as ever. At its heart, the day reminds us that service is about showing up for others. It is about providing support during difficult times and helping people overcome challenges. Those principles are not only part of our nation’s military tradition, they are also foundational to the credit union movement.
Defense credit unions were built on the idea of serving those who serve. For generations, these institutions have stood alongside military members, veterans, Department of Defense personnel, and military families through deployments, relocations, transitions to civilian life, and moments of both opportunity and uncertainty.
Like the Donut Lassies of World War I, defense credit unions often provide support behind the scenes. Their work may not always make headlines, but it makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the people and communities they serve. Whether helping a young service member secure their first auto loan, assisting a military family with a mortgage, providing financial counseling during a deployment, or supporting veterans as they transition into civilian careers, defense credit unions embody the spirit of service every day.
This connection between National Donut Day and defense credit unions may not be immediately obvious, but both share a common purpose: strengthening those who sacrifice for others.
Across the country, defense credit unions are committed to ensuring that military families have access to affordable financial services and trusted guidance. Their not-for-profit structure allows them to focus on member needs rather than shareholder profits, creating a service-first model that aligns closely with the values of the military community.
At the Defense Credit Union Council, we are proud to advocate for these institutions and the millions of members they serve. We work every day to ensure policymakers understand the unique financial challenges facing military communities and the critical role credit unions play in supporting financial readiness and resilience.
Financial Readiness
Financial readiness is increasingly recognized as an essential component of military readiness. The Department of Defense has long emphasized that financial stress can negatively affect mission performance, retention, and overall force readiness. Studies have shown that service members facing financial difficulties are more likely to experience distractions that can impact operational effectiveness. Defense credit unions contribute significantly to readiness by offering educational resources, affordable lending options, savings programs, emergency assistance solutions, and personalized support tailored to the realities of military life. Many also partner with military installations and community organizations to provide financial literacy programs that help service members build long-term financial security.
National Donut Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how acts of service, whether large or small, can create lasting impact. The Donut Lassies did not change history through grand speeches or sweeping policies. They changed lives through compassion, dedication, and a commitment to helping others. Their legacy reminds us that meaningful service often begins with simple acts of care.
As we celebrate National Donut Day this year, I encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate both the history behind the holiday and the individuals and organizations that continue its spirit of service today. Consider supporting a local business, sharing a donut with a colleague, thanking a service member, or learning more about the organizations that support military communities throughout the year.
For defense credit unions, National Donut Day serves as a fitting reminder of why we do what we do. Our mission is not simply about financial transactions; it is about people. It is about helping military families achieve stability, opportunity, and peace of mind. It is about standing ready to serve those who dedicate their lives to serving our nation.
The story of National Donut Day began with volunteers bringing comfort to troops thousands of miles from home. Today, that same spirit lives on through countless acts of service in communities across America. It lives on through defense credit unions that remain steadfast in their commitment to military members and their families.
So, as you enjoy a donut today, remember the remarkable history behind this tradition. Celebrate the spirit of service it represents. And join us in honoring those who continue to make a difference—one act of support, one member served, and yes, one donut at a time.
Jason Stverak is Chief Advocacy Officer at the Defense Credit Union Council.