In June the Ministry of Defence hosted the Never Such Innocence Month of the Military Child award winners at an event where artwork and thought-provoking poems were showcased.
Children aged eight to 18 submitted entries on the theme of Memories, based on their own experiences.
One of the winners, Evie-Sue, 14, composed a poem recalling her feelings during her father’s time as a Royal Guard in the army. A Soldier’s Call was written in English and Welsh.
Ruby, who created artwork called The Dandelion, said: “It meant a lot to me to win because I felt seen. It was like being in a special community of my own. I felt really proud to be included.
“My favourite part of the day was visiting the Horse Guards because I ride, and I got to talk to the soldiers about their careers with horses in the military.”
The other two army family winners were Elliott with his poem One Empty Chair and Mia-Rose with My Memories Come With Me.
All of the winning work can be viewed at tinyurl.com/NSIwinners
PURPLE UP IN WALES
Schools, local authorities and SSCE Cymru network members in Wales celebrated service children with a range of events from assemblies and dandelion-themed crafts to songwriting sessions, armed forces-themed physical activities and lots of purple to celebrate Purple Up Day.
SSCE Cymru launched a new series of good practice films for schools, sharing the voices of service children and educators, along with new digital tools to help them provide the best support.
They can be found at sscecymru.co.uk
GARRISON SUPPORT
Around 100 service personnel, veterans and local people lined up for the Tidworth 10K and family fun run, in aid of Little Troopers. Another 200 people aged 18 months to 15, also took part in a 1K fun run around the Tidworth Oval Stadium track.
Little Troopers arranged fun activities for the families, including circus skills, face painting and balloon modelling.
Founder Louise Fetigan thanked Tidworth Garrison and those who took part or supported the event.
GETTING ACTIVE
Le Cateau Primary School pupils started Purple Up Day with a good multicultural breakfast before throwing themselves into different activities, including an assault course, aerobics and a danceathon.
Almost 70 per cent of children at the school in Catterick have at least one parent who is serving in the armed forces.