Pederson Recognizes Purple Up! For Military Kids Day

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate today adopted Senate Resolution 31 to officially designate April 15 as Purple Up! For Military Kids Day in Oklahoma.

Purple Up! Day is part of broader efforts held throughout the Month of the Military Child, recognized by the Department of War each April. Wearing purple on this day of recognition serves as a visible tribute to military children, celebrating their important contributions.

SR 31 addresses the unique challenges military children face due to their parents’ service, such as frequent relocation, extended separations during deployments, and ongoing uncertainty. The resolution also expresses gratitude to service members and their children for their sacrifice and dedication to our state and nation.

The resolution, authored by Senator Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, recognizes the tradition of wearing purple, known as the “purple suit”, which symbolizes unity across all branches of the military—combining Air Force blue, Army green, Navy blue, Marine red, and Coast Guard blue to represent a shared commitment to service and sacrifice.

“Recognizing this day dedicated to military children by wearing purple is a meaningful opportunity to honor their service and sacrifice, and acknowledge the unique challenges they face,” Pederson said. “We are especially grateful for the children of servicemembers connected to Oklahoma’s military installations, whose resilience and strength reflect the best of our military families, and we remain committed to supporting them and the communities they are part of.”

Military officials and families from Oklahoma military bases were present for the adoption of the resolution and were recognized in the Senate Chamber. 

Pederson encouraged Oklahomans to wear purple on April 15 and join celebrations throughout the Month of the Military Child.

Read the full resolution here.

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For more information, contact: communications@oksenate.gov.

Cutline: Senator Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, recognizes Purple Up! For Military Kids Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol alongside Major Richard Cook, Executive Officer, 71^st Flying Training Wing, and his daughters, Annabelle and Josephine.