Proclaiming April of 2026, to Be the "Month of the Military Child" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, Across our nation, and here in the State of Rhode Island, children in military families sacrifice much to allow their parents to serve our nation and protect our liberty. In this month of April, people are encouraged to show support for our military and veteran children, and to thank them for their strength and the sacrifices they have made and continue to make; and

WHEREAS, More than two million military children in the United States have experienced a parental deployment since 2001, and currently, 1.6 million have an active-duty parent worldwide. The average military student faces transition challenges every two or three years, and most military children attend six to nine different school systems from kindergarten through the th grade. Taking care of our military children sustains our nation's fighting force and strengthens the health and safety of our nation's families and communities; and

WHEREAS, Purple is the color that symbolizes all branches of the military, as it is the combination of Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Marine Red and Navy blue; and

WHEREAS, April th is also "PURPLE UP! FOR MILITARY KIDS" day. The month of April is a time to recognize, honor and appreciate the service and sacrifices of these young heroes; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims April of 2026, to be the "Month of the Military Child" in Rhode Island; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the American Legion Post 8 Women’s Auxiliary.