Fort Hood Military Youth of the Year earns prestigious state honors at ceremony

For many military families, resilience becomes a way of life. Frequent moves, long separations and adapting to constant change often shape youth before adulthood.

Ellison High School junior Victoria Klutse, 17, has channeled those obstacles into triumph, not only earning the title of 2026 Fort Hood Military Youth of the Year, — sponsored by the Boys & Girls Club of America — but advancing and being recognized as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Texas Military Youth of the Year at celebration luncheon March 27 in Arlington, Texas — proving her hard work and dedication extends far beyond the Fort Hood community.

Though humbled by the honor, Victoria conveyed the role is less about accolades and more about being proactive.

“Leadership is not just about having a title; it is about taking action, showing kindness and continuing to serve others,†Victoria said. “Being the state Military Youth of the Year is about sharing my story about how I gained adaptability, resilience and perseverance through what I have overcome so I can be the bridge for other teens.â€

Victoria's story began with an upbringing steeped in faith, education, community involvement and service to others, her mother Brandy Klutse shared.

“(These) are the core values that I have routinely emphasized to my children. I've also tried to instill resilience, humility and personal responsibility,†Brandy said. “Through my example of these core values during life's challenges, Victoria understands that success isn't about perfection, but about showing up, staying committed and learning the lessons through your ups and downs.â€

Victoria said growing up in a military family allowed her to see the value of service, community and the sacrifices military families make.

“This community has helped me understand that my purpose goes beyond what I go through personally,†Victoria said. “It has taught me that I can use my voice and my experiences to uplift others to know that they can overcome anything and that their voices matter.â€

In addition to her involvement in Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID, sports medicine and student council at Ellison, mentoring peers and fellow Boys & Girls Club members is just one of the ways Victoria serves her community. She is also president of the Keystone Club SMART Girls at the Boys & Girls Club and participates in various youth activities with Chaparral Youth Center. She has organized events, helped raise thousands of dollars for various causes and her efforts have contributed to more than 300 hours of community service.

“She is a young lady that moves in silence,†Sheila Curtis, director, Fort Hood CYS, said. “If you didn't know her, you would think that she was just that quiet person, just going about her business and making a difference in the lives of the people that are around her. But when she stood before that group, she represented The Great Place. And when she finished that speech, we knew that it wasn't about the destination, it was about her future and what she's going to do to represent this great community.â€

And Victoria knows just how she intends to move forward.

“I plan to use my voice to advocate for other military youth by bringing attention to the challenges we face, including moving often, missing opportunities, adjusting to new environments and needing mentorship,†Victoria said. “I will use this platform to create a lasting impact by sharing my message that challenges can be overcome with the right support, belief and courage. I plan to continue serving my community beyond this title by staying involved, helping others and supporting programs that make a difference.â€

Victoria has set an exemplary example for what can be accomplished with perseverance Keshia Gray, Fort Hood Child and Youth Center youth and school age administrator, conveyed.

“I think that this was an excellent opportunity for (students) to see that their peers can go far in life,†Gray said. “This will be a great catalyst for others to see the possibilities that they could have if they just get in there and work hard and tell their story. It's all about their story.â€