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In April, the nation commemorates the Month of the Military Child, a time to recognize the unique challenges and sacrifices faced by children of military families.
Established in 1986, this annual observance serves as a testament to the resilience and courage demonstrated by young individuals as they navigate the complexities of military life.
Every April the Indiana National Guard joins military organizations across the Department of Defense to celebrate military children. There are more than 1.6 million military children who face many challenges and unique experiences as a result of their parents’ service.
"Many military kids regularly experience separations from their parents, whether for long deployments or short drill weekends," said Katie Griffin, the Indiana National Guard’s lead child and youth program coordinator. “Month of the Military Child helps us to recognize that those kids often take on additional responsibilities at home, and as a result, they build independence and resilience. Though it was not their decision to be in the military community, we want to show appreciation for their willingness to support their soldiers and make sacrifices for the betterment of their families.”
Throughout April, various events and initiatives are organized to honor military children and highlight their contributions to their families and communities.
One such event, the Purple Up! For Military Kids campaign, encourages individuals to wear purple as a visible gesture of support for military children. Purple, symbolizing the combined colors of all branches of the military, serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness and unity within the military community.
“We try our best as a program to host events and camps to bring these families together as a community and offer them unique opportunities that may not be available to them otherwise,” said Griffin. “There are also several organizations that offer free assistance for child care costs, sports and more.”
For military families, the Month of the Military Child offers an opportunity to come together and share their stories, experiences, and challenges. It fosters a sense of camaraderie and solidarity, providing a supportive network for children and parents alike.
"I whole heartedly support recognizing the innumerable sacrifices children of parents in the military make every day,” said Capt. Joseph Habig, executive officer of Company B 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment and parent of three military children. “They didn’t choose their parents’ profession but it’s often their ball games, birthdays, holidays, recitals and vacations that are sacrificed or celebrated with a military parent serving their state and country often times far away from home. One month of recognition will never be enough but it at least reminds society that there are kids who sacrifice their time with their parents for all of our freedoms and protection.”
As the nation observes the Month of the Military Child, it is a time to reflect on the courage, strength, and sacrifice demonstrated by these young individuals. Their unwavering resilience serves as a testament to the strong spirit of the military family, reminding us all of the profound impact of their service and sacrifice.
For more information go to https://www.in.gov/indiana-national-guard/troop-family-resources/child-youth-program/month-of-the-military-child/.
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| Date Taken: | 04.15.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 04.16.2024 08:43 |
| Story ID: | 468529 |
| Location: | INDIANAPOLIS, IN, US |
| Web Views: | 81 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Indiana National Guard celebrates Month of the Military Child, honoring resilience and sacrifice, by SSG Kelsea Cook, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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