April 8, 2023
Photo by Aleksandar Nakic / iStock
Dear child, I genuinely believe that being a military kid is one of the most challenging roles in the armed forces. You didn’t choose this journey; your father decided to enlist, and I chose to support him, knowing the difficulties we would face. However, you and your sister didn’t have a say in this matter. You both became “military brats” simply by chance, yet you’ve embraced this role with such poise that it fills your father and me with immense pride.
Son, you were fortunate that Daddy was stationed at home when you were born, allowing us to bond as a family during your first year. He was there to read you bedtime stories and play with you. But as every military family understands, these moments are fleeting. At just 14 months, your father had to leave for deployment.
I can still picture that poignant night before he departed, rocking you and reading My Sailor Dad. Both of us were in tears, uncertain how you would cope with his absence. I will never forget the moment we had to leave him at the boat, your little arms wrapped around his neck, repeating “Dada” over and over. My heart ached for you. How do you explain to a toddler that their father is leaving for reasons they can’t comprehend?
The initial weeks were tough. With me pregnant with your sister, we had to adapt to a new routine. You were understandably more clingy, yet you soon adjusted to our new reality. We kept in touch with Daddy through FaceTime when he was at port and with United Through Reading. You asked daily when he would return, and the joy on your face during homecoming is a memory I’ll cherish forever. Your resilience makes us so proud.
Our little girl, from the moment you were born, you unknowingly began to understand what it means to have a father in the military. Your father made it back just in time for your birth, only to be called away for training right after. It broke both our hearts that he couldn’t witness your arrival, but we tried to maintain a brave front, reminding ourselves that “It is what it is.”
The night before he left, your father expressed worry about whether you would ever forgive him for missing such significant moments. I knew he was thinking about all the milestones he would miss: birthdays, school events, and sports games—moments that other fathers would be present for. I assured him that both you and your brother would understand. Growing up as military brats will be challenging; you will need to find strength within yourselves to navigate this path. Your father’s brave choice to serve our country will shape your lives in ways we never anticipated.
Always remember, whether we are together or separated by miles, we are incredibly proud of our military children. If you’re interested in supporting military families in your community, consider checking out United Through Reading or Operation Homefront.
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In summary, being a military child is a unique and challenging experience that fosters resilience and strength. Through the ups and downs, we will always stand proud of our children who navigate this life with bravery and grace.