S R E H T O THE : E V R E S T THA E F I L E H T E D I S IN D L I H C Y R A T I L I M A OF
April was declared the month of the military child to recognize the children and youth who sacrifice so much for the greater mission. There are over 1.6 million military children whose parents or guardians serve in the Armed Forces. We spoke with a few from our Youth Programs and asked them about their experiences and challenges they face. When we think of the United States military, we think of the brave men and women who answer the call and sacrifice for the mission. But in the background when the soldiers leave and the goodbyes are said or the house is packed ready for the unknown, the children at home sacrifice so much more. TDY’s and deployments can be stressful for families. They can last for a few weeks to a couple of years. “When my dad goes on deployment and leaves, it’s sometimes hard and his job takes a lot of time
so it’s hard to spend time with him” – Mariah Age: 12. “My dad sometimes has to work long hours” – Dean Age: 9. When a presence is missing in the household it’s felt by everyone, especially by the children who are growing and creating memories without that loved one. One of the other obstacles that military children face is moving to a new place every three to four years. Starting over and having to make new friends, new routines and a new place feel like home. “It’s kind of like a lottery every time you move,
