I’m a Proud Military Brat
Where are you from?
That’s the conundrum of military brats everywhere.
I tell everyone that I’m from Texas, which for the most part is true. My parents are still there, and I spent the majority of my childhood there, too. I was born in South Carolina, though, and have no memory of that place. I left for the Philippines when I was only 2 months old and have lived in a handful more places before Texas became home. Looking back at my journey through multiple states and countries, I can’t believe that was my life. At the time, I didn’t quite understand what was going on. I was along for the ride and quickly adapted to each new destination.
I have yet to experience it the other way around. My husband and I don’t have children yet, so I can’t compare what it’s like to be a parent of a military child to actually being one. I just fondly remember my childhood and appreciate everything about it.
Don’t get me wrong. There were times that I hated—absolutely hated—being a part of the military. One instance, and really the most important, is when I was entering high school and my dad was reassigned to the Washington, D.C. area. I was so upset. The idea of moving when I just got used to being a teenager was devastating (not to mention, my mom was just getting into a full-time job/career, too).
Well, that’s when my family made the most difficult decision ever. My parents decided that it was best for my dad to move to Washington, D.C., while my mom and I stayed in Texas. The long distance lasted for a little more than a year, until my dad reached a good place to leave the DoD and join the National Guard to finish his 20 years.
That way, I could continue to go to the school I was used to and my mom could build her career. That sacrifice proved to be the most challenging experience for my family. Also, most importantly, it showed the strength of my family. Unlike a deployment, it was a conscious decision that we ultimately made for ourselves. I think that’s what made it so difficult because we had choices. It may have been the roughest part of my family’s history, but it’s also the experience I take with me into adulthood.
This is Month of the Military Child, so I couldn’t help but share my experiences some more. It really has helped me adapt. I’ve officially been a spouse now for a little more than a year. I’m looking forward to when I have the opportunity to teach my military brat lessons to a little one and have another perspective.
Until then, I’ll just value and continue to reference my experiences at my first duty station with my husband.
How many brats turned spouses out there?
