After a year-long deployment to Afghanistan, I learned that my son was coming home! Being an excited military mom, I wanted to shout it from the rooftops—and I did. With the help of social media, I posted my daily countdown days, photos, and his destination in a flurry of excitement. Although these were seemingly innocuous […]
Create new holiday traditions when your child joins the Army
Family ResourcesWe missed my son so much the first Christmas he was assigned to a Germany duty station. He spent it in Germany, while the rest of us celebrated a traditional Christmas at home. Our holiday felt odd without him there. Between the tears and strong emotions, we got through Christmas with video and phone calls. […]
Letting go of your child to the military is hard — this can help.
Off DutyLetting go is hard for parents. It’s especially challenging when your child leaves for military service. Since his birth, I saw or talked to my son daily. I cared for his needs, protected him, and guided him through life’s ups and downs. When I learned that he joined the Army, I wasn’t prepared. I didn’t expect […]
Everything you need to know about your child’s new career as a soldier
Off DutyIf your child recently decided to join the Army, you may be wondering about their new career as a soldier. It can be an emotional journey from the moment your soldier leaves for Basic Combat Training (BCT). No matter what your soldier’s job is or where they go, always remember what they are fighting for […]
The five best Soldier homecomings caught on video
MilSpouseMilitary homecomings are so moving and sure to have your heart well up with emotions. Whether soldiers surprise their families or arrive home with their brigade you ‘re sure to get teary-eyed! Grab your tissues as you watch these heroes arrive home on U.S. soil to family, pets, and patriots who love them. Here are […]
How to make the most out of communicating with your Soldier stationed far away
Off DutyWhen my soldier went off to his first duty station in Germany, my first thought was how we would communicate. Over the years, he headed to Afghanistan, South Korea, and other far-flung locations. Long distance calls would get expensive and were out of the question. We came up with ways to communicate long before he […]
What I’ve learned after 18 years of being an Army mom
Family ResourcesOver 18 years ago, my son told me he was joining the Army. He had big dreams of serving our great nation and becoming a helicopter pilot. When I heard his news, my mind filled with fears and other imagined thoughts. Where would I find the courage to see my child leave to serve our […]
How to support your Soldier before deployment
Off DutyPrior to my soldier’s first deployment to Afghanistan, he went through pre-deployment preparedness. There were many legal and financial matters to address. While my soldier was gathering information and filling out forms, I realized that I wasn’t prepared at all. I wasn’t prepared emotionally to help my soldier with a will, power of attorney, and […]
Army Acronyms for Moms: Everything you need to know
Off DutyOne day, my soldier son called me from somewhere in the world. He was on his way to another training exercise. He said, “Just came from the DFAC and on my way to the AAF for a DRE.” OK, what is going on here? My son only had a moment to talk so I didn’t […]
Ultimate gift guide for an Army family
Off DutyMany military families won’t be spending the holiday season with loved ones. But you can keep joy in the season with these awesome gift ideas for your Army family! The holiday season is a festive time filled with joy and reflecting on blessings all year long! It’s a time for gift-giving in the spirit of […]
