Legislation sponsored by Sens. Jean Stanfield and Anthony Bucco designating April 14 of each year as “Military Child Appreciation Day” was approved today by the New Jersey Senate.

Legislation sponsored by Sens. Jean Stanfield and Anthony Bucco designating April 14 of each year as “Military Child Appreciation Day” was approved today by the New Jersey Senate. (Wikimedia Commons)

“Children of military service members face many unique responsibilities during their school years,” said Senator Stanfield (R-8). “Between K-12, military children can move to different locations six to nine times, which separates them from family and friends as well as familiar social environments. This legislation will formally recognize these young American heroes for their daily sacrifices and the distinctive challenges they must overcome.”

The joint resolution, SJR-106, designates April 14 as “Military Child Appreciation Day.” Last year, Sen. Stanfield’s resolution, SJR-74, was signed into law. That bill designated the month of April as “Military Child Appreciation Month” and the last full week of April as “Military Child Appreciation Week.”

“I’m proud this resolution was approved by the Senate today,” said Senator Bucco (R-25). “With this legislation, New Jersey will further its commitment to the brave men and women who serve this nation by supporting and recognizing all military children, and by pledging its gratitude for their sacrifices.

Since 1986, when Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger established the month of April as the “Month of the Military Child,” the Department of Defense has implemented various programs to aid military children and families.