April is the Month of the Military Child—a time to recognize and honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of children growing up in military families. While service members wear the uniform, their children serve in their own way every day—adapting, persevering, and growing through experiences most people never fully see.
At the VFW National Home, this recognition is deeply personal.
Angie Harkins, Director of Programs, sees that strength daily—not only in the families she supports, but in her own daughter. Reflecting on her experience as a parent, she shares how, as a young child, her daughter faced confusion and big emotions without fully understanding why her dad was gone. Over time, that resilience deepened. She began to understand the risks of military service, quietly carrying that worry while still choosing to be strong—not just for herself, but for her family.
What stands out most to Angie is the balance military children carry—the ability to hold pride and fear at the same time. Even when faced with misunderstanding or insensitive comments, her daughter stayed grounded in her love and pride for her father’s service. That kind of quiet courage, Angie explains, isn’t always visible—but it’s incredibly powerful.
It’s that same quiet strength we see in Lachlan, the 2025–2026 Buddy Poppy Child of the National Home.
Over the past year, Lachlan has represented the National Home with humility, pride, and heart. But beyond the title, he’s also just a kid—with passions, dreams, and a personality that makes his story all the more meaningful.
When Lachlan found out he had been selected, his excitement was immediate—especially knowing he would get to attend the VFW National Convention and meet veterans and their families. It was an experience he says he’ll never forget.
But what mattered most to him wasn’t the spotlight—it was what he represented.
“It meant a lot to me because I was representing all of the kids at the VFW National Home, not just myself,” he shared. “I felt proud knowing I could be a voice for everyone here.”
Throughout his year, Lachlan connected with people from all walks of life, learning just how many individuals care deeply about the National Home and its mission. One of his favorite moments was giving his speech—standing in front of a crowd and knowing people were truly listening to his story.
That story is shaped by both challenge and pride.
Lachlan speaks openly about what it means to be a military child—understanding the sacrifices his father has made and carrying a deep sense of gratitude because of it. “It has taught me what it means to be dedicated to something bigger than yourself,” he said, a perspective that reflects maturity well beyond his years.
Like many military children, Lachlan has experienced the challenges of moving and adjusting to new environments. But he also recognizes the strength that comes from those experiences—especially the support he’s found at the National Home, where community makes all the difference.
And in between those big moments and meaningful reflections, Lachlan is also busy being himself.
He’s a huge music fan, with favorite bands like Dave Matthews Band and 311. He plays three instruments and has been inspired through his experiences at the National Home—especially through mentors who helped him discover his passion for music. “My favorite part has definitely been meeting and learning from the one and only Mrs. Rhonda. I consider her to be the key to discovering how passionate I really am about music. I also really enjoy being a part of Guitar for Vets, which has been an awesome experience for me” says Lachlan. His love for music isn’t just a hobby—it’s something that brings him joy, connection, and a sense of identity.
Looking ahead, Lachlan is excited for something simple and joyful: summer.
What his family calls “concert season” is what he’s most looking forward to—especially the chance to see Dave Matthews Band and 311 live again. For Lachlan, those moments—music, family, shared experiences—are what make everything feel grounded and meaningful.
His mom, Shawna, captures this beautifully: “Military children are special in a unique way because they learn early on not to become attached to things or places… what matters most cannot be packed in a box. Instead, they learn to value the people around them and the relationships they build.” She ended by quoting a lyric from their favorite, Dave Matthews Band, “Turns out not where but who you’re with, that really matters.”
That lesson is at the heart of what it means to be a military child.
At the National Home, families are given the opportunity to build those lasting connections—to find stability, support, and a sense of belonging. It’s a place where kids like Lachlan can grow, explore their passions, and feel understood by those around them.
To every military child: We see you. Your strength, courage, and your resilience does not go unnoticed. Your story matters. Your sacrifices matter. Keep being proud of who you are, keep holding onto what matters most, and keep shining in your own unique way.
We are cheering you on—always.
