14-04-2025
Buckley Space Force Base honors military children with Purple-Up Parade
AURORA, Colo. (KDVR) — There are more than 1.6 million children growing up with one or more parents serving in the military.
These kids face unique challenges because of their parents' service. Each April the Department of Defense celebrates the Month of The Military Child. On Friday, one of the festivities at Buckley Space Force Base was the Purple-Up Parade.
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'Our military youth, they sacrifice themselves, with their families serving our country to protect us,' said Shondrela Braggs, the chief youth programs director for the base. 'They give that most precious thing to us, so, recognizing them as little service people, I think is very important.'
Amanda Pressley is the mother of three special needs children, and her husband is a long-time service member. She says this kind of celebration is important because it brings the community together.
'It can be a lot. It can be overwhelming,' said Pressley. 'But it's great to have people that understand what that's like.'
Many military families have to move every two to three years. This can be stressful for children, having to change schools, make new friends, and develop new support networks. Braggs says this is why it is important to recognize and celebrate military children.
'It's very important to have a special time just for those kids,' said Braggs. 'Giving them this whole month to recognize them, it's an exciting thing.'
Events at Buckley this April include a month-long art exhibit, a Dandelion Ball, and a talent show, in addition to Friday's parade.
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