Military children recognized as home-front heroes Published April 29, 2011 By 1st Lt. Katherine Roling 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Almost 80 children were recognized for their roles as part of a military family during the 71st Flying Training Wing Military Child Recognition Ceremony April 28 at the Base Auditorium. Col. Russ Mack, 71st Flying Training Wing commander, awarded every child with celebratory dog tags provided by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, which recognized them for their contributions to their parents' successes in the military. In addition, 35 children were nominated by their parents for achieving success at school, helping out around the house and participating in extra-curricular activities while their parents were deployed. Those who were nominated were awarded an additional medal. April, which is the Month of the Military Child, was specifically picked to award Vance youth for their resilience living in a military family. "The Month of the Military Child is an opportunity to recognize military children and youth for their heroism, character, courage, sacrifices and continued resilience," said Angel Dominguez, a Community Readiness Consultant with the A&FRC. Colonel Mack spoke to the children in the audience and thanked them for helping their parents at home. "It takes a special family to be in the military," Colonel Mack said. "Young warriors, thank you so much for what you do for your mom and dad. I know, particularly for our deployed families, it's not easy being without a mom or a dad. I know you're all being good helpers around the house."