This week we will welcome Amy Palmer, the Chief of Programs and Field Operations for Operation Homefront to discuss the Military Child of the Year.   Operation Homefront, the national nonprofit dedicated to providing emergency financial and other assistance to military families, has announced that nominations for the Military Child of the Year Awards are being accepted online at MilitaryChildOfTheYear.org through December 15, 2012.  Winners will be recognized in April 2013.   The Military Child of the Year Award recognizes children who stand out among their peers.  Ideal candidates for the award demonstrate resilience, strength of character, and thrive in the face of the challenges of military life.  These young heroes embody leadership within their families and communities.   This award is presented to an outstanding child from each branch of service – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.  The winners each receive $5,000 and a laptop, and are flown with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C., for a special recognition ceremony on April 11.  In previous years, recipients have had the honor of meeting Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey, and First Lady Michelle Obama, who were guest speakers for the event awards ceremonies.