Elizabeth Dole Foundation Announces Grand Prize Winners of Virtual Military Kids Talent Contest

Winners by national vote in six categories receive free family vacation to Universal Studios

Washington, D.C. (October 8, 2021) – The Elizabeth Dole Foundation announced the national winners of the virtual “Military Kids Have Talent” contest in five age group categories and the group performance category:

• Kenzie McMillian, 4 (Age 0-6)- Salem, Ohio (Dancing)
• Kalea Francheska, 7 (Age 7-9)- Hampton, Virginia (Singing)
• Emily Tranotti, 11 (10-11)- Halfmoon, New York (Piano)
• Joshua Berryman, 14 (12-14)- Camp Humphreys, South Korea (Drums)
• Palmer Moore, 15 (15-18)- Burke, Virginia (Cooking)
• The Anderson Family (Group)- Orcutt, California (Taekwondo)

After two weeks of voting by the American public, the winners were announced in the “Military Kids Have Talent” grand finale, hosted by actor Jocko Sims (Jarhead, The Last Ship, New Amsterdam). The winners performed as a part of a segment that premiered virtually by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. The national votes determined winners from the 30 finalists, all children and survivors of military service members and veterans.“In the midst of all the ups and downs we've collectively experienced over the past year and a half, we hope Military Kids Have Talent has provided a bright moment of positivity for you and your family,” said Jocko Sims. “Now and always, one thing we know for certain, military kids are the super glue that holds families and our nation together.”The winners of Military Kids Have Talent all receive a free family vacation to Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., courtesy of contest sponsors Comcast NBCUniversal and American Airlines.“We are delighted by the enthusiastic nationwide response and participation in our second Military Kids Have Talent, and we congratulate our talented winners and thank Americans from coast to coast who supported the contestants with their votes,” said Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “Military kids, especially our nation’s hidden helpers, represent the patriotism, selflessness, and bravery that makes America a great nation, and we are proud that we could provide first a creative outlet, followed by a grand prize that will provide fun for the entire family.”For interviews with one of the winners or a member of the Foundation’s leadership team, please contact Lauryn Cantrell at lauryn@elizabethdolefoundation.org.About the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and Hidden HeroesThe Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers – the spouses, parents, family members, and friends — who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured service members and Veterans at home. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its support and advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit, and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being. The Foundation’s Hidden Heroes campaign brings vital attention to the untold stories of military caregivers and provides a network for military caregivers to connect with their peers and access carefully vetted resources. Visit www.hiddenheroes.org for more information.