Natalee, Hidden Helper Hero Award Courageous Kids Contest Winner
April 20, 2026
Natalee, Hidden Helper Hero Courageous Kids Contest Winner
From Caregiver to Camp Counselor, This Winner Supports Her Family and Community
As the oldest of four siblings, Natalee remembers what active-duty military life was like before her father sustained an injury as a soldier.
“To me, being a military kid means feeling proud that my dad served our country. I love knowing he helped protect our freedom and supported others,” the 16-year-old Iowan said.
Natalee took on extra responsibilities when her Army Veteran father was injured, dealing with chronic pain as a result. “Natalee has the ability to look at a situation, see the need, and just respond,” her mother and nominator, Ashley, said. “I have asked so much of this little girl, and she serves without hesitation and with compassion.”
“I'm so proud how she's taken her life experiences and has used them to show kindness, mercy and grace.” - Ashley, Natalee's Mother and Nominator
In the past year, Natalee has been able to take small steps away from the caregiver role she has held for so long. “She’s tried new things and getting to experience new things and look towards what her future might be,” said Ashley.
Natalee is heavily involved in Girl Scouts — an activity that has stayed a constant in her life no matter where the Army has sent her family. Last year, she used an Our Military Kids activity grant to receive training to become a Girl Scout camp counselor. This year, she put those skills to work, leading a camp experience for over 100 girls. She will also attend Girl Scouts’ National Convention as a state delegate and plans to meet with her state legislators to advocate on behalf of other military kids.
“Starting over can be hard, but it’s also one of our biggest strengths. Being a military kid has taught me that I can meet new people quickly and build real, meaningful friendships in a short amount of time.” - Natalee
In her free time, Natalee enjoys singing and reading. She also loves spending time with her friends and watching movies together, noting that she feels happiest when she is surrounded by people who love and support her. Natalee plans to follow a criminal justice career path and become a medical examiner.
“I’m really drawn to the idea of helping people find answers and giving families justice,” Natalee said. “The work may be behind the scenes, but it makes a real difference and that’s exactly the kind of impact I want to have.”
Throughout their father's combat-injury care, Natalee and her siblings Michaela, Katherine, and James each received Our Military Kids activity awards to fund swimming lessons and Girl Scout Camp. Learn more about the Our Military Kids activity award program at: https://www.ourmilitarykids.org
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