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2026 Military Child of the Year Awards: Final Call for Nominations

As we approach the end of the year, it's time to recognize the remarkable resilience of military children across the nation. The 18th annual Military Child of the Year® Award, presented by Operation Homefront, is currently accepting nominations, but time is running out. Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 PM CST on December 2, 2025. This prestigious program honors seven extraordinary military children who exemplify the strength of character and the achievements that truly set them apart.

What is the Military Child of the Year Award?

The Military Child of the Year Award is a unique initiative aimed at celebrating the accomplishments of children from military families. Each year, Operation Homefront honors exceptional young individuals who have shown outstanding resiliency in the face of adversity, demonstrating both leadership and dedication.

The award ceremony is a much-anticipated event, where the seven selected military children will be recognized during a gala held in Washington, D.C., on April 23, 2026. Each recipient will be awarded $10,000, alongside a laptop and various surprise gifts from generous partners of Operation Homefront. The organization even covers travel expenses, allowing these young heroes to celebrate their achievements together with their families.

The Importance of Nominations

Anyone can nominate a military child deserving of recognition. This includes family members, friends, teachers, coaches, counselors, and clergy. The nomination process is straightforward. It's an opportunity to shine a light on the courage, dedication, and contributions of military children who often experience challenges unique to their circumstances. In 2023, for instance, previous awardees had collectively endured a staggering 34 duty station changes and logged almost 3,500 volunteer hours—demonstrating their immense commitment not only to their families but also to their communities.

How to Nominate

Individuals looking to nominate a military child are encouraged to visit the official website: operationhomefront.org/military-child-of-the-year. Here, potential nominators will find detailed instructions on how to complete the nomination process and highlight the exemplary achievements of the child they wish to nominate.

About Operation Homefront

Operation Homefront is a national nonprofit organization that plays a crucial role in supporting military families. Their mission is to provide essential financial assistance, transitional housing, and family support services to ensure that military and veteran families live strong and secure lives. With 83% of their expenditures going directly to programs that benefit thousands of military families annually, they are recognized for their superior performance by independent charity oversight organizations. The organization's efforts are made possible by the generosity of donors and the commitment of thousands of dedicated volunteers.

For more details on Operation Homefront and their programs, or to get involved in supporting military families, visit OperationHomefront.org.

As the deadline for nominations approaches, reflect on the extraordinary children in military families. Recognizing their achievements not only honors them but also uplifts and inspires others in similar situations. Let’s celebrate the remarkable military children who showcase resilience and make a difference in their communities every day.