Honoring Our Military Children: April is the Month of the Military Child

Each year as we celebrate Veterans Day and Memorial Day, we pay our respects, and honor all of our military veterans. But have we ever thought about the children, whose mothers and fathers are bravely serving our nation?

“Month of the Military Child” was first celebrated in April 1986. At the time, Casper W. Weinberger, Secretary of Defense, realized that no one was recognizing the sacrifices made by the children of the military. He designated the month as a time for the military community to honor and celebrate the resilience and strength of these children. Since then, the Department of Defense has continued to honor his initiative. After its inception, there have been a growing number of activities on military bases and in local military communities. During the month special events are held for the children and their families.

To help build awareness of military families and to honor the children, Purple Up! Day was initiated in 2011. Although it was started by the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension 4H Military Partnership, Purple Up! Day is now celebrated throughout the country and embraced by the Department of Defense.

Five Facts about Military Children

The average military family moves three times more than a civilian family.
There are approximately 1.7 million children of active military personnel.
A common theme throughout the month is the color purple. This color was selected because it symbolizes all branches of the military.
Since 2001 at least 2 million children have had a parent deployed at least once.
The U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity operates 166 schools worldwide for military children.

As we show our appreciation to military children this month, Veterans Commemoratives also honors those who have served our country in the Armed Forces. Since 1987 Veterans Commemoratives has been proud to offer customized Service rings, watches and jackets featuring official War Memorials and Ribbons, Service and Career Emblems and Insignia.

Related products you may like:

50th Anniversary Vietnam Ring

Featuring the Vietnam Medal & Ribbon and Vietnam Memorial Wall - PLUS 10 Brilliant White Zircon Stones

Concealed Carry Soft Shell Vest

Features Dual Interior Loop Panels, FREE Military Patch and Optional Holster

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