Month of the Military Child recognizes contributions of military kids

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 7, 2018

ST. PAUL, Minn.- The month of April is designated as the Month of the Military Child to recognize the contributions and sacrifices military children make so their family members can serve. An estimated 15,000 children in Minnesota have been affected by the deployment of a parent.

“Military children bear a lot while their family members serve,” said Maj. Gen. Jon Jensen, Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard. “It is up to us to support these resilient kids and help to lessen their burden.”

An event to honor military kids in Minnesota will take place April 13, 2018, at the Mall of America rotunda from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Activities will include appearances by the Teddy Bear Band and meet and greets with Nickelodeon characters.

During the month, military children can participate in an art contest and photo contest. More information on each contest can be found at http://www.MinnesotaNationalGuard.org/momc.

Parents can register to receive a letter from Governor Mark Dayton that recognizes military-connected children for their service and sacrifice. Letters from the governor can be requested by visiting the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs website at http://minnesotaveteran.org/MilitaryChild.

The Month of the Military Child was first celebrated in April 1986 under former Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger. This recognition reinforces to military-connected youth that they play an integral role in supporting their service member.

For more information on all military youth activities this month, visit http://www.minnesotanationalguard.org/momc/.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs at mn.ng.web@mail.mil or call 651-282-4410.