11/7/2012 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- An organization whose primary mission is to provide emergency financial and other services to the families of service members and wounded warriors is opening nominations for one of their top recognition programs.
Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization formed shortly after 9/11 to support families of deployed service members, is accepting nominations for the 2013 Military Child of the Year.
The award is presented to children representing each branch of the service who have demonstrated resiliency, leadership and achievement and have shown themselves as exceptional citizens while facing the challenges of military life.
While not a prerequisite, the average nominees have moved five times or more during their lives, and have experienced at least one parent deployed for 18 months or more. They have usually volunteered with service groups on average 75 hours or more during the year. Most nominees have maintained above average grades, excelled in sports, theater or music and have held leadership positions in school or with community groups.
Deadline for submission is Dec. 15 at 11:45 p.m. (Central Standard Time).
The annual award will be presented April 11, 2013, at the Ritz-Carlton in Pentagon City, Arlington, Va. In addition to a trip to the nation's capital, winners will receive a laptop computer and a $5,000 cash prize.
