TORII STATION, Okinawa, Japan – DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam joins the Department of Defense and military communities worldwide in celebrating April as Month of the Military Child.
Sponsored by the Department of Defense, the Month of the Military Child is a time to applaud military families and their children for the sacrifices they make and challenges they overcome. The observance is part of the legacy left by former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger who established the Defense Department commemoration in 1986.
“As we celebrate the Month of the Military Child, I wish to take the opportunity to recognize the many exceptional characteristics and qualities military-connected children develop and possess as a result of their unique experience and lifestyle,” said Dr. Nancy C. Bresell, Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Pacific. Throughout the past two years, DoDDS-Pacific has addressed the mobility and transition issues of military dependents highlighting the many programs offered to ease the transition process. Students have unique challenges and opportunities as they move from one location to another with approximately 30 percent of students moving on an annual basis. Students themselves also play a critical role in assisting other students and families during the transition process. This year Student to Student teams will expand program initiatives and increase visibility within the community and offer S2S team training to middle schools.
“Capable, gifted, and innovative are a just few words that that come to mind as I observe students in schools and classrooms across the Pacific,” stated Dr. Bresell. “Our students have been consistently recognized for their academic achievements. Our educational programs clearly prepare them to be competitive with their stateside counterparts. Our students also possess core values of honor, integrity, and commitment, which are a natural part of the military child's family and school life. In partnership with our military communities, we reinforce these high ideals,” explained Dr. Bresell.
"During the Month of the Military Child and throughout the year, I encourage everyone to reflect upon the strengths and qualities that make our children stand out,” said Dr. Bresell. Schools plan many special programs and activities to honor military children. These efforts and special events stress the importance of providing children with quality services and support to help them succeed in a mobile military family. |
