Air Force Services officials launch Month of the Military Child programs

by Tech. Sgt. Amaani Lyle
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

April 12, 2010 - WASHINGTON -- Air Force Services officials are highlighting a variety and scope of programs in partnership with base agencies for Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family in recognition of military children and their families.

"Stay Connected" is among several Air Force-wide initiatives designed to help parents and children stay in touch during deployed members' time away from home.

The Air Force Stay Connected Deployment Kit contains items such as stuffed animals, pens and disposable cameras.

"The kit provides young people and parents an avenue to keep a connection during the deployed members' time away from home," said Eliza Nesmith, an Air Force family member programs specialist. "The items in the kit come in pairs, so that the young person and parent can have an item that will help them remember each other."

Active duty, Guard and Reserve locations received the kits for assembly and use during Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family. So far, in 2010, deploying families received 8,000 Stay Connected Deployment Kits, with more than 20,000 kits distributed since the program's inception in 2007.

During MOMC, bases throughout the Air Force are hosting special activities at installation libraries, bowling centers, fitness centers, and enlisted and officer clubs. Organizations such as outdoor recreation, security forces and family advocacy are collaborating to promote parades, concerts, book fairs, cookouts, family bingo, block parties and art auctions and more.

The month also includes health and wellness parental education activities such as car seat inspections, pet safety, speech and hearing screenings and brown bag lunch seminars.

"These events combine fun, education and recognition to celebrate military children and continue in our mission of taking care of Airmen and their families," Ms. Nesmith said.