Every April, communities across the country come together to recognize something easy to overlook: the quiet strength of military children. These kids move frequently, say goodbye to friends and neighborhoods, and navigate the challenges of having a parent in service — often without much fanfare. The Month of the Military Child is a chance to change that.
What Is the Purple Sidewalk Salute?
The Purple Sidewalk Salute is a community initiative led by The Barry Robinson Center to celebrate military-connected children and families in a fun, visible, and meaningful way. Purple was chosen intentionally — it’s the color that represents the unity of all branches of the military.
The idea is simple: grab purple chalk and take it to your sidewalk. Write a message of hope. A word of gratitude. A simple “thank you.” Every stroke of chalk is a reminder that military kids are valued — not just in April, but every day of the year.
How to Participate
The Barry Robinson Center is distributing purple chalk to community partners so that sidewalks everywhere can become canvases of encouragement. Whether you’re a school, a neighborhood, a business, or just an individual who wants to show support — you’re invited to join.
Once you’ve created your sidewalk art, share it on social media and tag it with #PurpleSidewalkSalute. The goal is to build a visible, collective salute that stretches far beyond any single block.
Why It Matters
Military children demonstrate resilience and adaptability that most adults would find challenging. They are, in every sense, part of their family’s service. Initiatives like the Purple Sidewalk Salute don’t just celebrate them — they remind these kids that their community sees them, appreciates them, and stands with them.
Grab the chalk. Purple up. Salute our military kids.
Learn more at barryrobinson.org
