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Photographs of the proclamation signing and related activities were captured by Airman 1st Class Elijah Strickland and Airman Jose Veras.
4-06-2026 9:11am
Holloman AFB Celebrates Military Youth Resilience as 2026 New Mexico Military Youth of the Year Signs Month of the Military Child Proclamation
Chris Edwards
Editor
Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. – April 3, 2026 — In a heartfelt ceremony at the Youth and Teen Center, Miguel Garza, the 2026 New Mexico Military Youth of the Year, joined Col. John T. “Friar” Ethridge, commander of the 49th Wing, to officially sign the Month of the Military Child Proclamation. The event shines a spotlight on the strength, adaptability, and vital contributions of military children and families serving at Holloman Air Force Base and across New Mexico.
April is nationally designated as the Month of the Military Child, a time dedicated to recognizing the more than one million military kids who navigate the unique demands of service life — frequent relocations, changing schools, parental deployments, and the emotional weight of supporting their families during times of separation. The proclamation signing underscores the community’s gratitude for these young people’s resilience and the important role they play in sustaining the armed forces community.
Miguel Garza, a standout young leader and active participant in Holloman’s Youth and Teen Center programs, has earned widespread admiration for his character and service. A dedicated member of the center, Garza has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a genuine commitment to helping others, making a lasting positive impact on his peers and the broader Holloman community.
In 2025, Garza represented Holloman AFB with distinction in the Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA) New Mexico Youth of the Year competition. He was selected as the 2025 New Mexico Military Youth of the Year, advancing to the Southwest regional competition. In recognition of his achievements, he received a $2,500 scholarship from BGCA, a $1,000 scholarship from the New Mexico Area Council, and an iPad mini. Base officials and Youth and Teen Center staff have expressed tremendous pride in Miguel, calling him an “incredible young man” whose efforts have strengthened both the program and the community.
During the April 3 event, Garza engaged directly with students, shared moments with attendees, and formally signed the proclamation alongside Col. Ethridge. Photos from the ceremony capture the collaborative spirit between wing leadership and the next generation of military youth leaders.
Col. Ethridge, who assumed command of the 49th Wing and Holloman Air Force Base in May 2024, has consistently prioritized family readiness and support for Airmen and their dependents. The “Fightin’ 49ers” — home to vital F-16 Fighting Falcon and MQ-9 Reaper training operations — continue to emphasize a strong sense of community and well-being for military families.
Throughout April, Holloman AFB plans additional activities to honor military children, including “Purple Up!” events (symbolized by wearing purple to show support), school “Clap-Ins,” and youth-centered programs at the Youth and Teen Center. These initiatives aim to celebrate the sacrifices and successes of military kids while fostering stronger connections within the Alamogordo and Otero County community.
The national observance this year highlights the legacy of support for military families, aligning with broader Department of Defense efforts to nurture the future of those who serve alongside their parents in uniform.
Photographs of the proclamation signing and related activities were captured by Airman 1st Class Elijah Strickland and Airman Jose Veras.The 49th Wing remains committed to building partnerships with local schools, organizations, and the City of Alamogordo to ensure military families and their children receive the recognition and resources they deserve.
