This time of year, in places like Killeen, set in the shadow of Fort Hood, Army green takes on a purple tint.
On Wednesday, Killeen ISD celebrated Purple Up Day, scheduled in the middle of April, which is Month of the Military Child globally throughout the U.S. Department of Defense.
Across KISD, students, staff, parents and others in the community wore purple to show support and solidarity with the 20,000 military-connected students in the district who serve alongside their family.
At Clifton Park Elementary School in Killeen, 91 students connected to the military were scheduled to eat lunch on the cafeteria stage in recognition of the special day.
Kindergarten through fifth grade students brought their tray of chicken and waffles from the school cafeteria onto the stage, which was bathed in purple light and featured a photo backdrop and decorations.
Counselor Maggie Burvato, a military spouse and dependent, grew emotional talking about the profound sacrifice children make as their parents serve.
“They serve because their parents serve. We want to honor them. As counselors we take care of everybody, but this month we want to make sure they are celebrated with their parents.”
Several students and adults at the school agreed the military life is difficult, but that the challenges bring opportunities.
The dandelion is the official symbol of the military child because it is a sturdy plant that can take root most anywhere and its spores float on the wind, carrying it near and far.
Clifton Park fourth-grader Isaiah Cook lived in El Paso and South Carolina before moving to the Killeen area with his military family.
“It’s kind of privileged. It makes you feel special,” he said, agreeing that his experiences will pay off as he grows older.
Carlos Rosario, who has lived in Kansas and Texas, said it’s difficult to leave friends behind, but said the military lifestyle also provides a chance to meet new people and see new places.
Kindergarten aide Zykirah Thompson moved around with her military parents and now works on the same campus with her mother, the school’s parent liaison.
“For me, it’s important to recognize military children because it’s hard to build and keep communities as we grow. It’s important to have a tight, little community of military children,” she said.
“It’s great to be here. It’s such a joy to see these kids every day.”
This month various KISD campuses have hosted after-school activities centering on military families, have honored Fort Hood adopt-a-school units and held special ceremonies and lunches to honor families connected to the military.
Killeen ISD photo albums: https://www.killeenisd.org/photos