Posted on Oct 9, 2014
How many of you were Military Brats? Did the experience help or hinder?
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Military Brats are a unique subculture. We spent most of our formative years on military bases, many of them overseas. Our mothers and fathers were deployed frequently; many of our parents were "war brides". We had to learn to adapt to new schools, new languages, mixed races and new countries constantly. Are we better or worse for it? Tell us your story!
Posted in these groups: 
Military Career
Family
Military Career Family
Edited 10 y ago
Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 8
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My dad was first, a Nuclear Tech and then E.O.D. I lived in Germany, first. We lived off-post in a tiny village not far from the French border. My parents were forced to learn German and passed down quite a vocabulary to me. Awesome memories.
We then moved to White Sands Missile Range. I started kindergarten there. It's hard to imagine now, but my parents were in their early twenties. Our E.O.D family was quite unique and I can still remember the names of all my friends there.
My father was extremely abusive and the environment my sisters and I lived in was tough, but I can't regret it. I had wanted to be a soldier since I was a little girl. I couldn't have imagined any other career.
As much hell as took to get me to where I am now, I think it made me stronger. My only regret is that I was not able to stay Active duty, to allow my kids the total multi-cultural experience I had. But, even as NG, none of my military experiences have been a hindrance. Some have been difficult, but not regretful.
We then moved to White Sands Missile Range. I started kindergarten there. It's hard to imagine now, but my parents were in their early twenties. Our E.O.D family was quite unique and I can still remember the names of all my friends there.
My father was extremely abusive and the environment my sisters and I lived in was tough, but I can't regret it. I had wanted to be a soldier since I was a little girl. I couldn't have imagined any other career.
As much hell as took to get me to where I am now, I think it made me stronger. My only regret is that I was not able to stay Active duty, to allow my kids the total multi-cultural experience I had. But, even as NG, none of my military experiences have been a hindrance. Some have been difficult, but not regretful.
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SGM (Join to see)
SPC Mulder, wonderful experience! We grew up in France, Germany, Panama, back to Germany for high school. Awesome experience. Back again as adult + Japan, Belgium etc.
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I grew up a military "brat", my father is actually on here (shout out to CPO Cleavon Ford). I would say it helped me because I am not afraid of anyone because of their rank. Growing up I was around Enlisted men and Officers, I was able to speak to everyone the same without fear then, and I don't now.
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SGM (Join to see)
SPC Smith and CPO Ford...your response is so true! "Brats" are more worldly and practical than most!
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CPO Cleavon Ford
Yes, Christopher was exposed to the military rank structure and was encouraged to interact with them and I hope his early experiencs has molded him into a GREAT solider! I also believe my earlier failures has helped him guide through the obstacles in his early career!
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SPC Christopher Smith
Can't say i got to hear many of the failure stories, but I can say I know what a true NCO looks like. Early morning phone calls from Seamen needing rides from the bar on a Saturday. The days of watching as boots get shined, I missed that bullet and don't want to do it. I have learned plenty, but sadly Navy and Army are two different beast.
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