April: Month of the Military Child

Shawn McGrew, son of Master Sgt. Shanette Jean, 47th Medical Group dental flight chief, takes his first “step into the blue” as he raises his hand and takes the Oath of Enlistment in San Antonio Texas, March 5, 2015. April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the unique contributions and sacrifices military children make on behalf of America. (Courtesy Photo)

Contributions, sacrifices, commitment of military children

Published April 24, 2015
By 2nd Lt. Aaron Redfield
47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Shawn McGrew, age 19, has decided to continue his service to the nation and follow in his mother's footsteps as he enlists in the Air Force.

McGrew is the son of Master Sgt. Shanette Jean, 47th Medical Group dental flight chief, who's served 22 years in the Air Force.

The U.S. Department of Defense has designated April as the Month of the Military Child. The intent is to recognize the enduring support military children give to their parents through moves, deployments, and long days at work; and to honor the unique contributions and sacrifices military children make on behalf of America.

"I joined for travel, education opportunities and benefits for family," said Jean. "Looking back at my career now, the Air Force has provided a well-rounded, stable foundation for Shawn and his peers look up to him because of that."

McGrew shares similar thoughts on why he enlisted: "The military shows you more than a small town, there is more out there and more opportunities...the military also teaches you discipline."

With six younger siblings, McGrew is continually looked up to as a role model. As he begins his Air Force experience, his siblings will support another Air Force member by providing those unique contributions and sacrifices McGrew made growing up.