By Logan K., Age 10
A military child is more than one thing.
A military child is a kid with gratitude and kindness.
A military child is thankful for all of the placers they can go.
A military child shares experiences with different cultures.
A military child is strong and brave.
A military child is proud in every way they can be.
A military child is just like you and me.
“Logan has spent 9 of her nearly 11 years overseas. We have tried to instill pride in our kids for their service to our country. Logan regularly creates art and poetry about her military experiences. She submits designs for Month of the Military Child patch design competition … She loves being a military kiddo.” - Logan’s mother
Logan and her family, who are currently stationed in the Indo-Pacific region, have spent many years living overseas due to military service.
How the USO Supports Military Kids like Logan
Life as a member of a military family can be challenging for everyone, especially military children who face frequent moves, deployments and constant change - all at a young age. The USO recognizes their sacrifice as well as these children’s needs, and we are committed to continuing to find ways to support them.
With over 250 USO Centers around the globe, many military children can turn to a USO Center as a familiar “home away from home,” no matter where they are stationed. Here, they will be provided kid-friendly activities that can help them feel and build a sense of community, as well as bond with other children who are going through the same challenges as they are. These Centers host programs for kids of various age groups and can be anything from arts and crafts activities and family game nights, to cooking classes and scavenger hunts.
It can be challenging for military children to move every two to three years, leaving behind their friends, family and homes. That’s why the USO is committed to supporting military kids at our more than 250 USO Center locations around the world, providing a network of “home away from homes” that they can always turn to.
Aside from USO Centers each having their own programs for kids, these Centers are also home to the USO Reading Program, where both service members and military children can record themselves reading a book on camera, and send the recording as well as a copy of the book to their service member or child who is far and away.
USO Centers and programming continue to keep all military community members in mind. Whether it’s stateside, where military children are still often far from loved ones, or overseas where they are both far from home and in a new world completely unfamiliar to them, military children can always turn to the USO for support and community.
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Every day, America’s service members selflessly put their lives on the line to keep us safe and free. Please take a moment to let our troops know how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice.