Month of the Military Child

By U.S. ArmyMarch 31, 2011

Month of the Military Child

What is it'

Throughout April, installations around the world will recognize the sacrifices of U.S. military children by celebrating Month of the Military Child. More than 1.7 million children have one or more parents on active service in the U.S. Armed Forces. These children, too, suffer the effects of nearly 10 years of conflict. An estimated 900,000 children have had one or more parents deploy multiple times.

What has the Army done'

Army installations will sponsor various activities and events to recognize the brave service and sacrifices of military children. Army leaders will take part in ceremonies and events to recognize challenges that military children face, and to reinforce the Army's promise to improve the quality of life for both Soldiers and their families through the Army Family Covenant. Activities will range from teen forums aimed at addressing challenges they face at school and at home to spring celebrations and school field days. Many activities center around concerts, fairs, picnics, art shows and other events that are designed to highlight the resiliency of military children and give the communities they belong to a chance to celebrate childhood. Many garrisons will also take advantage of the month's awareness campaigns by promoting workshops for parents and teens.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future'

The Army is committed to providing military children with a quality of life commensurate with their service and sacrifice. The Army is delivering on the promises made in the Army Family Covenant through increased or enhanced services provided by child, youth and school services; an unprecedented investment in construction of childcare, youth and teen centers; increased emphasis on school support and school transition services; and standardizing and funding programs worldwide that support the military child.

Why is this important to the Army'

Soldiers cannot focus on the battles or challenges ahead if they are concerned about their children at home. Providing a safe, nurturing environment for military children creates a stronger fighting force. The Month of the Military Child reinforces this concept, reminds the nation that our servicemembers' children also serve, and provides an opportunity to thank military children for their bravery.

Resources:

<a href="http://www.army.mil/-news/2011/03/24/53796-army-to-celebrate-month-of-the-military-child/" target="_blank">Army to celebrate Month of the Military Child</a>

<a href="http://www.imcom.army.mil/hq/" target="_blank">US Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) </a>

<a href="http://www.armymwr.com/" target="_blank">US Army Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command</a>

<a href="http://www.operationmilitarykids.org/public/home.aspx" target="_blank">Operation Military Kids</a>