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SUBJ/MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD// 
 
RMKS/1.  This month we take time to acknowledge the unique challenges 
children of Sailors and Marines face.  While we acknowledge the challenges, 
we go further; we celebrate their resilience, and show them that we 
appreciate their sacrifices, unconditionally.  First recognized in 1986, the 
Month of the Military Child is a time to honor our Nation's 1.6 million 
military children. 
 
2.  Families of Sailors and Marines quickly learn that the adventures, 
stressors, and responsibilities directly experienced by the individual Sailor 
or Marine translate distinctly and directly to the entire family.  Military 
children are exposed to unique challenges related to the honorable service of 
their parent(s) or guardian(s).  A permanent change of station disrupts a 
child's existing friendships.  Deployments and extended training upend 
routine and stability in the home.  While our children do not serve in 
uniform, they serve in different ways as they support their military parents 
and guardians.  However, amidst the challenges of everyday life as a military 
child, there are unique opportunities to learn and grow. 
 
3.  We hope for the best for our children, that they not only survive, that 
they thrive.  Mostly, we hope that they can just be kids.  That upcoming 
permanent change of station affords our children the chance to meet new 
people and grow new friendships, while nurturing existing ones.  A Sailor or 
Marine's deployment in the service of others opens the opportunity for 
parents and guardians to translate that military service into service to 
community, with their children at home.  As parents, you encourage and 
support your children as they tackle the demands of military life through the 
acknowledgement of their reality and our response to it.  In my travels, I 
see and hear from military children, their stress, and their joy. 
 
4.  Throughout April, be on the lookout for Month of the Military Child 
events held onboard your local installation or hosted through national 
organizations.  Morale, Welfare and Recreation and the Child and Youth 
Programs are facilitating many exciting in-person and virtual events 
connecting teens from around the world in support of service projects within 
their communities.  Your children will also have the opportunity to 
participate in themed spirit weeks, fitness challenges, or nature events 
through their local Child Development Centers. 
 
5.  Many of our Sailors and Marines were military children themselves.  Those 
of you who have experienced life as a military child continue your service 
honorably in uniform; the Nation is grateful for your dedication.  You have 
made military service your family business.  We understand that while you 
serve, your family sacrifices.  For that reason, we make care for your family 
our business.  To assist all parents and guardians in uniform, and their 
partners, your local installation Fleet and Family Readiness and Marine Corps 
Community Services offer a wealth of information pertaining to parenting 
resources, benefits, and programs.  In addition to the services provided 
onboard your installation, 24/7 assistance is always available via the 
Military OneSource website. 
 
6.  During this Month of the Military Child, we also applaud our child 
development professionals who are essential for Navy and Marine Corps 
families.  These amazing individuals compose a highly dedicated team, working 
tirelessly to support the growth of our military children.  They make a 
profound difference in our children's lives, contribute to readiness, and the 
Department of the Navy mission would not be possible without them. 
 
7.  The demands of military family life are challenging and this can be 
especially true for our children.  We must show them that we understand their 
struggles, as well as the opportunities, and follow that up with 
unconditional appreciation of their sacrifices and support for their 
continued growth.  I am proud of all military children, during this month 
that celebrates them, and every month of the year.  Please share my sincere 
message of gratitude with the military children in your lives. 
 
8.  Released by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy.// 
 
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