President Bush honored the men and women who serve our country behind the scenes, Tuesday, commemorating Military Spouse Day.

Bush said we should recognize military spouses every day as we remember their sacrifices for our country. The nation's leaders held a ceremony at the White House lawn in their honor.

"It's clear to me the harder job in many ways is to be the person at home taking care of the kids and having sleepless night as you pray for safe return," Bush said.

"You're carrying out the burdens -- you're serving our country. And it's noble service," he said. "And it's necessary service. And the United States of America owes you a huge debt of gratitude. And so, on behalf of our people, thank you for what you're doing."

He also used the occasion to thank volunteers for their support of our troops and their spouses.

"Whether you're signed up for military life at the recruiting station or at the altar rail, each person is a volunteer," he said, to laughter.

"And when you married your soldier, sailor, airman, Marine, or Coast Guardsman, you became more than just part of a family -- you became part of our nation's military family," he added.

Military Spouse Day started 24 years ago when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation in their honor.