Whereas, Thousands of brave Americans have demonstrated their courage and commitment to freedom by serving the armed forces of the United States of America in active duty posts in Afghanistan, Iraq and around the world; and,

Whereas, More than 40 percent of these soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines have left families with children behind; and,

Whereas, More than one million of America’s children have at least one parent currently serving active military duty; and,

Whereas, These children are a source of pride and honor to us all, and it is only fitting that we take time to recognize their contributions, celebrate their spirit, and let our men and women in uniform know that while they’re taking care of us, we’re taking care of their children; and,

Whereas, The recognition of the “Month of the Military Child” will allow us to pay tribute to military children for their commitment, their struggles and their unconditional support of our troops, because when parents serve in the military, their Kids Serve Too; and,

Whereas, A month-long salute to military children will encourage support for “Kids Serve Too” and other organizations and campaigns established to provide direct support to military children and families; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2005, as The Month of the Military Child in Michigan and I encourage all citizens to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies and activities that honor, support and thank military children.