The Blue Star Neighbors Award was created in 2015 to recognize civilians who have gone above and beyond to make military families feel supported in their communities. The nomination period for the Blue Star Neighbors Award is open through December 31, and the winners will be honored next May in Washington, DC. Managing editor Tami Roleff has more on this award and how to nominate a Blue Star Neighbor…
The Blue Star Neighbor Award was created in response to a military survey that found that 51 percent of respondents felt they were not a part of the civilian community in which they lived. The award is a way for military families to share their stories and ask civilians to help them thrive in their local communities. Last year, Erik Nelson of Colorado received the award for helping Major Shane Clarke keep his business afloat when he was deployed to Afghanistan. Every night after work for a year, Nelson volunteered as the lead instructor for Clarke’s martial arts studio and provided administrative oversight. Military families are encouraged to submit their neighbor nominations through December 31. The winner will be announced on May 15 and both the winner and the nominator will receive a trip for two to Washington, D.C. to attend the recognition celebration. For more information, see https://bluestarfam.org/bsnaward/