'Military Kids Have Talent' Finalists Include Woodbridge Resident

WOODBRIDGE, VA — Aniyah Seaberry, a 9-year-old girl from Woodbridge, is a finalist in the "Military Kids Have Talent" competition. Seaberry was selected by a fan vote as one of 30 finalists in the competition.

Seaberry was chosen thanks to her piano playing prowess, and now she has a chance to win a trip to Universal Studios Orlando for her and her family. The trip is awarded by Comcast NBC Universal and American Airlines, who are sponsoring the competition.

For her performance, Seaberry played the song "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen.

The contest is organized by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, which focuses on "empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers," according to their website. The foundation, which was established by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, is active in several facets of advocacy and support for servicemembers and their families.

The "Military Kids Have Talent" competition shines a spotlight on the children of servicemembers and provides them a showcase for their abilities. Kids from across the country submitted their performances, and an online vote was held to narrow the field down to 30 finalists.

Seven of the 30 finalists hail from Virginia, including kids from Alexandria, Burke, and Chesapeake. Now, voters have until Monday, Aug. 16 to select their favorite performance in five individual age groups and a group category.

Steve Schwab is the CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. "Military kids, especially our nation’s hidden helpers, represent the patriotism, selflessness, and bravery that makes America so special," Schwab said. "Through Military Kids Have Talent, an emotional and recreational outlet for kids and their families, we’re thrilled to spotlight our country’s youngest heroes and celebrate the unique talents they have to offer."

The competition, which is hosted by actor Jocko Sims, can be viewed online in its entirety. On the same webpage, viewers can vote for each of their favorite performers.

More information about the Military Kids Have Talent competition and how to vote is available online.