Highlighting the importance military children play in the Armed Forces Community, Maj. Gen. Karl R. Horst, Joint Forces Headquarters National Capital Region and the U.S. Military District of Washington's commanding general administered an Honorary Oath of Enlistment to an Army veteran's son that epitomizes the resiliency of the military child. Vernon Jones Junior's honorary enlistment ceremony was shortly followed by his promotion to Sgt. First Class, the same rank his father retired at, during an evening ceremony held at Fort McNair May 4, 2011.
Vernon Jones Jr. is the 20 year old son of Sergeant First Class (Retired) Vernon Jones Sr., who had been assigned to Army Air Operations Group numerous times, and Colena Jones. He was born with severe athetoid cerebral palsy, which is marked by slow, writhing involuntary muscle movement. Vernon Jr. has never been able to speak or walk, but effectively communicates through his eyes and smile. He gravitates and becomes obviously excited when he sees photos of his father in uniform and images of Soldiers. He recently attended his 18 year old sister's graduation from basic training and expressed his strong desire to be a Soldier. His parents say they are honored that he had this unique opportunity to take the oath of enlistment and fulfill his dream of following in his father's footsteps.
Almost two million American Children have a parent serving in the military and about half of them have had one or both parents deployed multiple times. April is designated as the Month of the Military Child and is an opportunity to recognize military children and youth for their heroism, character, courage, sacrifices and continued resilience.
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