Ritchie Welcomes Fort Drum Children to the Capitol

Group Celebrates ‘Purple Up Day’ and the Month of the Military Child

State Senator Patty Ritchie welcomed the children of Fort Drum soldiers to the State Capitol Tuesday to recognize them for their own service, as well as their strength and sacrifices.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH SEN. RITCHIE'S WELCOME REMARKS IN THE SENATE CHAMBER

The visit takes place during the “Month of the Military Child,” an annual month-long celebration that pays tribute to roughly 1.8 million sons and daughters of those currently serving in our Armed Forces. That number includes the family members of 18,000 soldiers who are attached to Fort Drum and live in North Country communities Senator Ritchie represents.

“We sometimes forget that behind every brave soldier are family members who love, support and courageously stand by them—and it’s so important that we recognize them for their bravery too,” said Senator Ritchie.

“I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of the children who visited the Capitol at recent deployment ceremonies held on Fort Drum.  I continue to be amazed by their unwavering support and am honored to be able to have the opportunity recognize them.”

During their visit, the group toured the Capitol, attended the day’s Senate Session and celebrated “Purple Up Day,” a day set aside to thank military children for the sacrifices that accompany having family members who are in the military.