A senior at Washington-Liberty High School has been awarded as a “2024 Military Child of the Year.”
Taylor Walsh, the daughter of a Space Force colonel and an Air Force veteran, has been recognized for her resiliency. Operation Homefront, a nonprofit that supports military families, said that despite the frequent deployments, family separations and other hardships of being in a military family, Walsh continues to excel.
As her parents serve the country, Walsh serves her community. She has logged 830 volunteer hours in the past 12 months and provided mentorship for over 40 freshmen students.
Walsh is also involved in several extracurricular activities and clubs such as softball, the Arlington Children’s Chorus and the Student Council Association. As a member of this association, she planned and encouraged some 2,500 students to participate in community outreach programs such as blood and food drives.
Walsh said she is inspired by her mother.
“The most meaningful memory I have from that day was when my mother stood front and center on the field and was honored for her service,” said Walsh. “I am so incredibly proud of my mom and all her accomplishments.”
Now, Walsh is receiving recognition for her own accomplishments and service. Next month, Walsh and the other recipients will be celebrated during the “Month of the Military Child.” They will receive a $10,000 reward, a laptop and other gifts at the 2024 gala in D.C.
The award recognizes young people between the ages of 13 and 18 for their scholarship, leadership, volunteerism and other services that benefit their communities.
Chosen recipients each represent a branch of the U.S. armed forces: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, National Guard and — in the case of Walsh — Space Force.
Image via Operation Homefront/Facebook