Nominations Now Open!
Operation Homefront is thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for the 2024 Military Child of the Year® (MCOY) Awards! Seven national awards will be presented to outstanding youth from each service branch, recognizing their resiliency, leadership, and achievement during their parents' service. Each recipient receives a $10,000 cash award, a laptop computer, and a 3-night stay in Washington, D.C., culminating in the Awards Gala on April 11, 2024.
Eligibility:
Open to legal dependents aged 13-18 of service members or military retirees, nominees must be able to travel to Washington, D.C., for the gala and other events. Nominations can be made by anyone familiar with the child's achievements, and applicants must be willing to participate in media and donor opportunities.
When to Nominate:
Nomination periods are open from September 6, 2023, to December 3, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Central.
How to Nominate:
Visit militarychildoftheyear.org during the nomination period and fill out the nomination form, highlighting the nominee's achievements, family background, and why they deserve this honor.
FAQs - Your Questions Answered:
Why are there now seven branch awards instead of six?
Space Force was officially created in December 2019, and we added the seventh branch award to continue to honor a child from every service branch.
Are children of a deceased service member eligible to apply for this award?
Yes, as long as the child is treated as a military dependent and continues to be eligible for military dependent status.
My child is 12, is he/she eligible?
No, eligible children must be between the ages of 13 to 18 at the time of the nomination to qualify.
Do I need to pay taxes on the prizes?
Operation Homefront recommends recipients consult with their family tax professional.
For more information and to submit nominations, visit militarychildoftheyear.org. Let's celebrate the remarkable military children who make a positive impact on their families, schools, and communities!
