Daughter of Virginia Guard Soldier recognized as one of “Our Military Kids of the Year” - April 19, 2012

Baleigh Wheeler of Greenville, Va., was recognized April 19 in Washington, D.C., as one of five children selected as "Our Military Kids of the Year" by the national nonprofit organization Our Military Kids. Baleigh, age 15, is the oldest daughter of Maj. Dave Wheeler, the full time personnel officer for the 116th Brigade Combat Team Headquarters in Staunton. In observance of the Month of the Military Child, Our Military Kids hosted its third annual “Celebration of Our Military Kids’ Star Power” event at the U.S. Navy Memorial and recognized the five children and one Military Family of the Year. She had previously received a grant from Our Military Kids to pay for her dance lessons and competitions, and she performed a dance routine dedicated to her father who returned from federal active duty in Afghanistan in January 2012. Baleigh travels up and down the East Coast for competitions and also volunteers for the American Heart Association and at Family Readiness Group events, and she also volunteers as a camp counselor. The winners honored at the event previously received grants from Our Military Kids to participate in various activities, and showcased their talents for the country’s top military officials and members of Congress.