Brats, Servants, Leaders and Change Agents

Approximately 80 percent of service members have at least one family member that also served in the Armed Forces.....

Dec 07, 2024

I got asked the other day……where do US Military families say they are from?

It stuck with me……

The life of a military family is transient, moving every 2-3 years, living in multiple states across this great nation, and living overseas in foreign countries. As a result, the kids go to 10+ schools throughout their education years, have to repetitively build and create new relationships, and experience many different people, cultures, and environments at early ages. During this period of transitions, deployments, and change, the kids have the opportunity to reinvent themselves at each new location. But spouses and extended families have a unique challenge. Divorce rates are almost double the civilian public. And for some, the ultimate sacrifice is given……god bless.

This is for all those parents, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers behind the scenes who support those that provide service before self.

Here are some of the core skills that military families have ingrained in their DNA:

Adaptability

A new place every 2 years builds resilience. They are always in learning mode.

Resourcefulness

New places require situational awareness. They can distinguish between needs and wants. If one thing doesn’t work, try another.

Respectfulness

Military families respect people from all walks of life. The military is one of the most diverse communities around. Exposure develops respect.

Gratefulness

Military families have a strong sense of gratitude for life, liberty and freedom. They lived it everyday. From the planes overhead, to the sounds of reveille, retreat and taps daily. It means something!

Community

A sense of community is vital for groups and organizations to succeed. Knowing that someone or something has your back provides a sense of calm and security. Military families know the power of community, the strength of loyalty, and the honor of service.

Overcoming Adversity

Military families face the music. They turn into the storm, which sometimes is the only way through. They ask questions. They get it done with hard work, focus and discipline.

According to the Pentagon, approximately 80 percent of service members have at least one family member that also served in the Armed Forces, and more than 25 percent of those have a parent who served as well. This “warrior caste” is sacred and should be celebrated by all. Without these muti-generational families, the US military would be a fraction of what it is today and the country would be in a different position on the world stage.