The special celebration of Teal Up Day at Guthrie School in Sturgeon County aimed to honor military children for the challenges they face and sacrifices they make due to having parents who serve in the military. The event included fun activities such as a pancake breakfast, hotdog lunch, military vehicles display, weapons display, and even a helicopter landing. The goal was to provide the children with a day of enjoyment where they could learn more about what their parents do and have a great time.
Military families, like those at Guthrie School, often experience frequent moves, leaving behind schools, activities, and friends. Grade 7 student Christian Pickell shared his experiences of moving to different places due to his father being in the military. While he enjoys the excitement of exploring new places, he also finds it challenging to leave behind friends and family. Events like Teal Up Day are significant for military children like Pickell as they provide a sense of belonging and recognition for their bravery and resilience.
Another student, grade 9 student Londyn Hodgson, shared her perspective as a military child with a father who serves as a door gunner in the Air Force. She expressed the difficulties of missing important events due to her father being away but highlighted the importance of the support from the community at Guthrie School where many students are in similar situations. The Edmonton Military Family Resource Centre offers programs and services to support military families through the unique challenges of military life, including deployments, relocations, and transitions.
Amber Gagnon, the communications and outreach team lead at the Edmonton Military Family Resource Centre, emphasized the importance of connection for military children who often have to relocate every two to three years to a new base or province. Military children face unique challenges such as their parents being away on deployments or work-related absences, which can leave them feeling isolated in new environments. Through programs and services provided by the resource centre, military families are supported in navigating the challenges and building connections within their community.
The celebration of Teal Up Day at Guthrie School brought together military children from families serving in the military to honor and recognize their experiences and sacrifices. The event provided an opportunity for the children to have a fun-filled day and learn more about their parents’ roles in serving the country. Military children like Christian Pickell and Londyn Hodgson shared their perspectives on the challenges and rewards of being part of a military family, emphasizing the importance of support, community, and recognition for their resilience and bravery.
In conclusion, events like Teal Up Day and the support provided by organizations like the Edmonton Military Family Resource Centre play a crucial role in acknowledging and supporting military children who face unique challenges due to their parents’ military service. By fostering connections, providing resources, and creating a sense of community, military families are able to navigate the complexities of military life with resilience and strength. It is essential to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices made by military children and their families in service to their country.
