Mayor Paul Whitney of Soldotna declared April the “Month of the Military Child” and April 11 “PurpleUp Day!”
Mayor Whitney said, “It’s important to emphasize and recognize the critical role of their dependence while the parents serve our nation. Our military families help sustain our fighting force.”
The Alaska National Guard Child and Youth Program (AKNG CYP) Youth Council is dedicated to addressing the educational challenges these children face, including those related to frequent relocations.
Mayor Whitney stated that on average, military children experience more than twice the number of transitions during high school. They attend between six and nine different school systems throughout their education, from kindergarten to 12th grade.
These issues have been recognized since 1986 when former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger focused on improving the educational experience for military families.
“PurpleUp Day!” in the City of Soldotna is an opportunity for the community to show appreciation, support, and understanding for military children.
“Purple indicates that all branches of the military are supported: Air Force blue, Army green, Navy blue, Marine red, and Coast Guard blue- all our thought to combine together as a single color, purple.” Said Mayor Whitney.
On April 11, 2025, all residents are encouraged to wear purple to honor and recognize the unique challenges faced by military children in the area.
