We’ve got several fun ways for you to observe Purple Up! in April, each with an eye to showing support for Hill Country military families.
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Underwriting support for this story generously provided by Johnson City’s Science Mill. Look to ScienceMill.org for upcoming events, including spring break and summer activities.
Story by Jenny Jurica
NOTE: Due to COVID-19, the Science Mill is temporary closed. Please see their website for updates.
Did you know that the San Antonio area alone is home to about 250,000 military veterans and 80,000 active-duty personnel? These men and women sacrifice so much when they choose to bravely and selflessly serve our country, but paramount among these sacrifices is time spent away from their families.
During these same periods of deployment, many military children are left separated from at least one parent for long periods of time. Tragically, some children even lose their brave-hearted, active duty parents.
That’s why it’s important for all Americans to recognize and reflect periodically upon the experiences of these young people.
That’s why, way back in 1986, former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger designated the month of April as the “Month of the Military Child.” The tradition continues each spring, making April the perfect time to honor the military families in your community for their sacrifices.
Below are some of our favorite ideas:
Help spread the word about a special opportunity
Through the generous support of Whataburger, the Science Mill is pleased to offer half-price admission for any active or retired military service member and up to three family members with a valid ID.
Through April 30, 2020, the first 100 visitors who use the military discount will also receive a coupon for a free Whataburger.
Wear the color purple for Purple Up Day! On Friday, April 17, 2020
Whether you want to go all-out and don your purple from head to toe or just slip on those purple socks that your great aunt gave you for your birthday, you can show your community that you appreciate and support military families by wearing purple on April 17.
Educate yourself and others on the honor and sacrifices of military kids
One of our favorite San Antonio children’s health organizations, 1 in 5 Minds, has a great article available online detailing the experiences of these kids. These two sentences in particular resonate: “Unlike the careers of many civilians, service in the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines affects all aspects of life and has great implications on each family member. For the military child, the lifestyle presents with many opportunities for strength-building and has potential to also create unique challenges.”
Make a world map honoring military families
At your local school, church or community center, create a world map and pinpoint the locations where former and current local military families have lived. You might be surprised to learn how many different places your friends, co-workers, and neighbors have lived during their time in the military.
Plus, what a great geography lesson for young students!
Donate money to a charity that supports military children
There are many charities that help families of military servicemen and women. Consider a donation so that they may continue to support armed forces families in special ways. Five great charities to consider:
- Military Child Education Coalition
- The USO
- Blue Star Families
- Our Military Kids
- Wounded Warriors Family Support
Have more great ideas? We’d love to hear ‘em. And don’t forget to check out our sponsor’s website, ScienceMill.org, which informs, delights and entertains children from across our region throughout the year.
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