Havelock Teen Claire Burks Finalist for Military Child of the Year

Virginia “Claire” Burks from Havelock has been named a finalist for the prestigious Operation Homefront Military Child of the Year Award. This recognition honors the exceptional achievements of children in military families, highlighting their resilience and contributions despite the unique challenges they face.

Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting military and veteran families, selected Burks as one of five finalists representing the U.S. Marine Corps. She was chosen from a pool of 68 semifinalists worldwide, reflecting her outstanding character and accomplishments. Burks expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Despite the outcome, I am so grateful for this opportunity and would like to personally thank Havelock High’s Military Liaison Terrell Gould, widely known as Mr. Turtle, for nominating me for the application and believing in me every step of the way.”

Finalists were chosen in February by a panel of independent judges. The final seven recipients, representing each branch of the military, will be announced in March. All awardees will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they will be celebrated at a gala in April 2026. During this event, senior leaders from each military branch will present the awards, which include a $10,000 scholarship, a laptop computer, and additional gifts.

Burks, originally from Florida, has lived in various locations due to her father’s military service, including Alabama, Germany, and now Virginia. Reflecting on her experiences, she acknowledged the difficulties of transitioning as a teenager: “It was definitely hard going through all those changes… but I think I can look back on it and be grateful.” She noted that her journey has been a “roller coaster of emotions” that many military children can relate to.

Through her diverse experiences in different communities, Burks has become more outgoing and resilient. As a senior at Havelock High School, she participates in numerous extracurricular activities, including cheerleading, serving as treasurer of the National Honor Society, and contributing to the Health Occupations Students of America. She is also involved with Student 2 Student, Future Business Leaders of America, and Unified Champions, alongside community service at a local nursing home through her Certified Nursing Assistant class at Craven Community College.

Burks has long aspired to become a nurse and has been accepted into the honors college at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She is also considering Auburn University in Alabama for her studies. Being named a finalist for the Military Child of the Year Award is not just a personal achievement for her; it represents her dedication to her peers and the military community. “It was such a good feeling to kind of see that the organization saw something in me,” she said.

Burks believes this nomination strengthens her connection with other military children: “I know that I’m not alone in my experiences and other kids have gone through this. It makes me feel good knowing that military kids can see the kind of awards and opportunities that other military kids can get, just from sharing their experiences.” Her story exemplifies the strength and spirit of military families, serving as an inspiration to her community and beyond.