Courage, strength, and resilience: Honouring Canadian military-connected kids

Each April, Canada pauses to celebrate a remarkable group, the children and youth of military families. These young individuals navigate frequent relocations, school transitions, and separations from loved ones with resilience, adaptability, and unwavering courage. 

On Monday, April 7th, Military Family Services National Capital Region (MFS NCR) proudly marked the Month of the Military Child with Teal Up Flag Raising Ceremonies. These ceremonies were not just symbolic gestures but heartfelt tributes to military-connected kids, the quiet heroes behind the uniform whose journeys deserve recognition and celebration. 

A Day of Honour and Pride 

The day began at the Uplands Military Community Centre, where a gathering of dedicated supporters, including members of the Military Family Advisory Committee (MFAC), local families, and community leaders, came together in solidarity. Among them were our youngest attendees, playgroup children, whose laughter filled the air as the teal flag ascended, shimmering under the morning sky. A symbol of hope and strength carried by military-connected youth in the NCR and across Canada. 

The next stop on this meaningful journey was the National Defence Headquarters at Carling Campus, where the flag was raised once more, this time, in the presence of the Canadian Forces Support Group (Ottawa-Gatineau) (CFSG (O-G)) Chain of Command, including Commander, Col J.R. Toope; Chief Warrant Officer, CWO J.G. Pickard; and Commanding Officer of Personnel Support Services in Ottawa, Cdr N. Mang. Their support, along with a powerful showing of CAF members, underscored the importance of recognizing military-connected youth. As the flag soared against a brilliant blue sky, it was met with proud smiles from the incredible members of our MFS NCR Youth Advisory Panel (YAP), young leaders who stand as living testaments to resilience and determination. 

The day concluded at Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) headquarters, surrounded by dedicated national team members and leadership, including MFS Senior Vice-President Laurie Ogilvie.  The flag rose once more, its bold teal hue standing out against the golden afternoon glow. Each child present carried a story of transition, perseverance, and courage that weaved into the fabric of military families across Canada. 

Military Kids: The Beating Heart of Our Community 

Military-connected children face challenges that shape them into strong, adaptable individuals. They move across provinces, change schools, build new friendships, and endure long separations from loved ones. Despite these challenges, military-connected kids face every obstacle with exceptional strength. They learn to adapt, to find community wherever they go, and to hold on to the unwavering bond of family, no matter the distance. Their courage and ability to forge ahead with determination are nothing short of inspiring.  

In every classroom, playground, and community across the country, these children remind us why military families are a cornerstone of resilience. They are not simply along for the journey, they are shaping their own paths, standing proudly as examples of perseverance and unity.  

A Call to Celebrate Their Strength 

As the Month of the Military Child continues, let us collectively amplify their voices. Let us recognize their experiences and ensure they feel seen, valued, and appreciated for all they endure in support of their families' service to Canada. Whether through community events, words of encouragement, or simply taking a moment to acknowledge the journey they walk, every act of support reinforces their strength.  

To every military-connected child and youth: you are courageous, you are resilient, and your stories matter. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us on Monday, April 7, for these meaningful ceremonies. Together, let’s continue to celebrate, uplift, and stand beside military families in the NCR and across the country, not just this month, but always. 

Get Involved

This April, as we honour military-connected youth, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on their stories through the MFS NCR "What It Means to Be a Military Kid" Creative Contest. Happening right now during the Month of the Military Child, this contest invites CAF kids and youth to share their unique experiences in their own voices. Whether through poems, drawings, videos, songs, or stories, participants can express the pride, challenges, and friendships that shape their journeys. This is their chance to be celebrated and heard. 

Submission Deadline: April 26 at 1 PM (extended deadline)
Contest Detail