Military Kids Day scheduled Feb. 25 at Capitol

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – The annual Military Kids Day at the Kentucky state Capitol is set for Tuesday, Feb. 25, an event that offers military children a unique opportunity to see the legislative process firsthand and engage in several other activities, including a scavenger hunt.

Hosted this year by the House of Representatives’ Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection (VMAPP) Committee, the event will feature activities to honor and celebrate the children of military families.

Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, initiated Military Kids Day at the request of a military family in his district. Since then, the event has become a cherished tradition, growing in success each year. It recognizes the sacrifices of military children, including the time that is spent apart from their parents and the challenges of frequent relocations, while providing a platform for them to participate in state government.

The day’s activities will include a Capitol tour, exploring a Black Hawk helicopter and Aviation Museum flight simulators, participating in a Capitol scavenger hunt and attending committee meetings focused on military issues.

Sen. Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, chair of the Senate VMAPP Committee, emphasized the importance of Military Kids Day in his district. “My dad was a military policeman for 22 years, so I grew up in the military,” he said. “While it brought unique challenges that made me resilient, it also afforded me opportunities other kids didn’t experience. With Fort Knox in my district, I’m incredibly proud to participate in this event that highlights the sacrifices of these incredible kids. I encourage military families to allow us to show them around our state capitol and create a truly unforgettable day.”

Rep. Bobby McCool, R-Van Lear, chair of the House VMAPP Committee, expressed his excitement about hosting the event. “I’m thrilled to welcome military kids and their families to the House VMAPP Committee,” McCool said. “It’s a privilege to provide this experience to families who sacrifice so much for our country. Children of parents or guardians who serve sacrifice time away from those who love them most, all for the benefit of this great nation. That deserves our full and undivided attention.”

Families wishing to participate must contact Senate Clerk Donna Holiday at donna.holiday@kylegislature.gov. The application deadline is Monday, February 17.