April is designated as the Month of the Military Child; a time to honor the sacrifices made by military families worldwide, with an emphasis on the experience of the dependent children of military members serving at home and overseas.
According to the Department of Defense:
- Approximately 2 million military children have experienced a parental deployment since 9/11.
- There are currently 1.2 million military children of active duty members worldwide.
- The average military family moves three times more often than their civilian counterpart.
- There are nearly two million “total-force dependent children” including more than 900 thousand Army dependents, 400 thousand Air Force dependents, nearly 300 thousand Navy and approximately 118 thousand Marine dependents.
Military children often experience the hardship of deployments. At the same time, they also experience the excitement of new places and new experiences. Unfortunately, military children also experience the heartbreak of a service related death or injury.
In recognition of April as the Month of the Military Child we thought we would look back at articles we have posted on this topic. Please see the following links to our previously posted stories about military children.
- Making Holidays Brighter for Military Children
- Easing the Hearts and Minds of Military Children
- Not All Who Serve Wear a Uniform
The American Red Cross has provided direct support ot our nationa’s military, their families and veterans for over 100 years through our Service to Armed Forces program. Learn more at redcross.org/military.