THE OTHERS THAT SERVE INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MILITARY CHILD

THE OTHERS THAT SERVE:

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MILITARY CHILD

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,

whether it’s gonna be better or worse or maybe the same”– David Age: 12. “You leave your memories behind – you leave things you can’t take, like friends.”– Averie Age: 12. “When I move I’ll make a poem and at the bottom it’ll have my friends’ signatures.”– Dominic Age: 14.

Even through the challenges of leaving to a new place, these military children are as resilient as their loved ones. They make the hard times just a little easier for their families by waiting patiently and being as strong as they can be. “You can always think of all the good memories you have with them.” – Brielle Age: 10. “When my dad leaves, my mom and I make a chain and we take one off everyday – it just helps us count the days until he comes back”, said Averie. While going through these difficult times the children still think the world of their loved ones and know just how important their job is. They have made some pretty cool memories seeing first hand what they do to keep us all safe and support the mission. “I went to my dad’s job – it was bring your kid to work day and I was able to see what they do everyday. It smelt horrible though because of the stuff they use to fix the airplanes.” – Victoria Age: 12. “I was able to use the flight simulator that my dad uses – It’s big and it looks like a UFO.”– Logan Age: 10.

Being a military child is not easy and often overlooked. Hug your children a little tighter this month and let’s appreciate their sacrifices too.

20HORIZONS APRIL 2021