Being in a military is a hard task, yet having a family member that has joined the military and supporting them in their decision is, perhaps, even harder. The challenges that people in the military face on a daily basis are beyond excruciating, and knowing that one risks their life while meeting these challenges is unbelievably difficult. While the acts of heroism made by soldiers are not to be underrated, either, the great sacrifice of their families, who provide consistent support, are proud of their family members in the military, and put the needs of the state and its citizens before their own, deserve the recognition of their great sacrifice.
Watching family members leave to join the army and, possibly, go to war that may take their lives is a terrifying experience, yet the families of soldiers carry their burden with amazing strength and dignity. These families realize that soldiers consider the protection of their state and the people living in it as their duty, and, no matter how drastic the consequences might be, the courage of soldiers and their passion for justice is what keeps these families strong (Fallen US Soldiers, 2009).
It would be wrong to claim that positive attitude persists in military families. The ones that were not lucky enough and had to deal with the death of their loved ones admit that the pain of losing a family member is excruciating. The grief of the mothers and wives whose children and husbands became war casualties is sincere and profound, yet they continue to support the rest of the family members who are still willing to join the army. One might consider the situation irrational and barely sensible; however, it instead shows that, no matter how hard the challenges might be, standing firmly for what one believes in and providing support for the family members that are willing to make a difference is an incredibly brave decision to make.
The rare visits of soldiers mean that their families miss them incredibly. Indeed, while not being as agonizing as the necessity to deal with the death of a family member, short visits and the anguish may make the waiting a nearly impossible experience. However, the family members of soldiers show incredible strength by developing the ability to wait and feel proud of the passion that soldiers have for justice, peace, and safety of the community. The unique philosophy that helps military families survive and remain happy and positive is truly worth appreciation (Moelker, ‎Andres, Bowen, & Manigart, 2015).
Although the acts of heroism of the soldiers that serve in the military and defend the country should not be overlooked, either, the sacrifice of their families must be appreciated as well. The threat of losing a family member as a war casualty is beyond terrifying, and the devastating sorrow through which the families that suffered this loss are put cannot possibly be embraced. Therefore, while often being unnoticed and unspoken of, the sacrifices of military families must be appreciated and recognized.
More importantly, military families require the support of the state and community, which means that the communication process between the state and local authorities and military families should be improved. As a result, it will be possible to show the appreciation for the great sacrifice that these families have made.
References
Fallen US Soldiers. (2009). Military families reflect on sacrifice. Web.
Moelker, R., ‎Andres, ‎M., Bowen, G., & Manigart, P. (2015). Military families and war in the 21st century: Comparative perspectives. New York, NY: Routledge.