Children of military service members up for recognition Published May 1, 2010 Wyoming Military Department CHEYENNE, Wyo. -- In recognition of Wyoming military service members' children, Gov. Dave Freudenthal will sign the Month of the Military Child Proclamation on April 9, at 2:30 p.m., in his office. Month of the Military Child is a legacy of former Secretary of Defense, Caspar Weinberger, and was established to highlight the role children play in the armed forces community. Currently, there are 1.7 million American children and youth under the age of 18 with a parent serving in the military. There are roughly 900,000 children with one or both parents who have deployed on multiple occasions. In Wyoming, there are approximately 2,320 Army and Air National Guard youth, with an additional 2,849 to include all active duty and other reserve components throughout the state. The month-long highlight is an opportunity to recognize military children and youth for their heroism, character, courage, sacrifices and continued resilience. Special events will be held during April in communities around Wyoming. For more information, contact Debbie Russell, family assistance supervisor at (307) 630-3358.