Military Brats Day is celebrated all over on April 30, and we celebrate the kids of the armed forces by showing our appreciation for the military, watching popular films based on the army, and even dressing up in military-like outfits! Did you know, the average Military Brat changes at least six schools in their lifetime?
History of Military Brats Day
Military Brats Day was founded by Military Brats, Inc. It was launched back in 2016 as an unofficial holiday. However, the members of the founding committee are trying to convince the U.S. Congress to make this day an official holiday to acknowledge how precious the military’s children are. Also, it aims to thank the kids of army personnel for their own sacrifices and indirect service for the nation.
April is known as the Month of the Military Child. So it’s befitting that April 30 is National Military Brats Day. It is a day to sit back and ponder the sacrifices that the millions of military kids — present and past — have made for the country. Not only are their mothers or fathers sent away to serve the nation but these kids often have a tough life due to a lot of moving around, depending on where their parents are stationed.
Military Brats are, without a doubt, a unique breed of individuals. Their lives may be more difficult than most but these constant disruptions in their childhood often bring them closer to their families for life. They’re also often able to build stronger relationships in their social and professional lives.
Military Brats Day timeline
The British military acronym, which stands for British Regiment Attached Traveler (BRAT) is coined.
Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Michael M. Dunn writes a blog post about why military kids need recognition.
Military Brats, Inc. starts National Military Brats Day
Members of Military Brats, Inc. appeal to Congress to make National Military Brats Day an official holiday.
Military Brats Day FAQs
Why is it called a Military Brat?
The term BRAT stands for British Regiment Attached Traveler and it was assigned to families who were able to travel abroad with a soldier. The term stuck and is now used with reference to military children.
Are military parents strict?
Military Brats’ parents aren’t necessarily strict but some are more dogmatic and disciplined than others
What is an army kid?
An army brat is the child of someone (usually an officer) serving full-time in the army or another branch of the military, especially a child who grew up living on military bases. Army brats get all the benefits that their army-personnel family members get. They have access to morale, welfare, and recreational (MWR) activities. Many of them even indulge in the libraries, bowling alleys, movie theaters, and other recreation facilities that can be found at some military bases.
Military Brats Day Activities
Watch movies based on the military
On April 30, many movie channels on TV showcase some of the best movies based on the military. Gather the family and spend the evening watching a military-themed movie.
Sport military outfits
Take out your dad’s old army clothes or go to a dress-up shop and try to get hold of some military-like clothing and wear it on this day. Share pictures and videos of you and friends wearing these outfits on social media using the hashtag #NationalMilitaryBratsDay.
Volunteer and support
Come together to volunteer and support the cause of getting National Military Brats Day recognized as an official holiday. Express support online or you can host local events to show the importance of the day to your local community.
5 Facts About Military Brats
Definition of Military Brats
Military Brats are the kids who are, or once were, the children of members of the armed forces.
One in every 25 American citizens
One in every 25 American citizens is part of a military family — as per a rough estimate, as many as 15 million Americans are Military Brats.
Military Brats change schools frequently
Military Brats reportedly attend between four and 12 schools in their lives — the national average is six schools
Famous Military Brats
Amy Adams, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Alba, Chris Cooper, John Denver, Shaquille O’Neal, and Reese Witherspoon are some of the most famous Military Brats.
Childhood memories
Kids who’ve grown up on military bases may not be able to access their childhood home or other familiar places once their parents retire from active duty unless they also join the army.
Why We Love Military Brats Day
Military Brats have a harsher childhood
Military Brats go from school to school throughout their young lives and it’s not their fault. It wouldn’t be bad to acknowledge their commitment to society in this way.
Military Brats are way more disciplined
We all try to be more disciplined and kick our bad habits but sometimes we fail miserably. We can learn something from Military Brats who tend to be more focused and disciplined in life.
Learning life skills
Military Brats get to meet different people from a very young age. However, they often have to say goodbye to these people and this makes them emotional and tough at the same time.
Military Brats Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 30 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 30 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 30 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 30 | Sunday |
| 2029 | April 30 | Monday |
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