What a day!
What a day we had on Sunday. More than 250 people from across Portsmouth and beyond came to HMS Temeraire for a special event celebrating military children. We hosted a Dandelion fun run and Celebration Day to mark April Month of the Military Child.
April is officially recognised as the Month of the Military Child, celebrating the unique experiences of children growing up in Armed Forces families.
Our Charity founder Louise, said: “We were so excited to see so many military families join us for our Dandelion runs and Family Celebration Day. We have lots going on all year round, but in April we shout a little bit louder about how amazing military children really are. It’s a special month and a great opportunity to start conversations about the unique challenges they face and why they deserve support.”
On the day
On the day we held two races on the running track: a 1km Dandelion Toddle and a 3km Dandelion Dash. The dandelion is the official flower of the military child. It symbolises resilience and the ability to “put down roots” wherever they go.
Chelsea Pensioners were at the start to blow the horn and set off the 150 children who took part. Runners aged from 18 months to 15 years were cheered on by family, friends and the Sea Cadets.
Cyrus, aged 10, who took part in the 3km Dandelion Dash, added, “I found the run really hard, but I changed hats every lap which really helped. I loved all the support and was happy that I raised £140 to support Little Troopers.”
Cyrus was one of Five runners raised over £750 – Thank you!
Alongside the races, families enjoyed a wide range of activities including circus skills, mini golf, games, Punch and Judy, BFBS Operation ice cream van, live music from the Horndean Band, face painting and balloon modelling.
Thank you
The event, which takes place annually, moves location each year to reach different military communities. The 2026 event was made possible with sponsorship from Frazer-Nash Consultancy.
What’s next
We still have two great events this month:
- 18th April at 10am – ArtBase are going to guide our little troopers through drawing a cute bunny eating a dandelion! You can book for the workshop here.
- Saturday 25th April 2026 – We’re joining up with the Royal Hospital Chelsea to host a special intergenerational event. On this day, a small group of military children along with a parent will get to meet some of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners. The event will include a guided tour of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, lunch and a dandelion-themed arts and crafts session. To register your interest in attending please complete this form.
