Written by, Angela Caban
How would you react to the news that your child is joining the military? Some may say that they would not be able to handle the news while others say they would feel nothing but pride. A child joining the military shows a sign of maturity and discipline to many parents. Many parents feel that although it is hard to see them go, it is the best choice for them and as young adults they must make their own choices. Regardless of whether or not these are families with military experience or not our child will need all of our support when making such a big decision for their future.
So do military families feel different about their children joining?
We may feel pride and give support, but since we know this lifestyle the best, we do have our worries and concerns. Missy Funk is a military wife, mom and mother-in-law. She has been through many trying times and knows a thing or two about this lifestyle.
When my daughter Erin was 16 her dad joined the PA National Guard. She saw how much he loved it and the camaraderie among the soldiers. I wasn’t apprehensive about letting her join – so many people tried to talk her out of it, I felt she deserved my support one-hundred percent…and she still gets it. I love being a military wife and mother. I truly believe that all young adults should experience military life. The maturity and brotherhood that are borne from it are amazing.
How do civilian families feel about their children joining?
It can be a hard transition, especially for a family who has no experience with this lifestyle. Sarah Connos is a military mom who had no former military experience whatsoever.
I was so shocked at first when my son told me he wanted to join the Army. I thought to myself, why? Well after crying a few nights, I decided to do some research on the Army and what they would offer my son. I was so happy I supported him in his decision. It made the process and transition for us as a family so much easier. My husband and I couldn’t be prouder of our son and we fully support everything about the military.
Support does not just mean giving your child the okay to sign up; support is sticking by your child while they are going through the process. Ask questions and get involved in the process. The best way to keep a positive outlook on the situation is to be well aware of the process. There are also many support groups for parents of soldiers that may help with information or any questions you may have. Your child’s recruiter can give you this information.
For more information on the military and support for parents, please visit Today’s Military.
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Having served, I definitely think everyone should have to do at least eighteen months in some branch of the military.
But, even though she’s only 9 and I am not sure how I would react, I almost hope my daughter wants nothing to do with it.
Myself, her mother, and her mother’s current boyfriend are all Army vets, so if she does want to join we’ll all have the experience needed … to convince her to join the Air Force.
JMP
My son leaves on the 18th of April, less than a week now, for boot camp. He is my middle child, oldest son and the first to leave home. I feel the pride of a mother, yet I also have panic attacks and bouts of crying when I am alone. I do not want to make him feel bad that he is leaving or have doubts that he is making a bad decision. He has literally talked about the Army for 13 years. How do I handle the emotions that are beginning to overwhelm me?
MS