Gov. Dayton has declared April "month of the military child" and has offered to write letters of recognition and thanks to children with parents in military service.

Parents can register to receive a letter from the governor "that recognizes military-connected youth as being our smallest heroes and offers a small token of appreciation," said a spokeswoman for the Minnesota National Guard.

Families seeking such letters can register at the states's Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.MinnesotaVeteran.org

Communities and military families are also encouraged to wear purple on April 15 in honor of military children. A recognition event will be held at 9 a.m. at the Capitol Rotunda on that day.

Further information on the "month of the Military child" can be found at: http://www.minnesotanationalguard.org/momc/.