2024/D’Marco-

Being a military child comes with its ups and downs. Saying goodbye to friends and familiar places can be incredibly tough, but each move also offers the opportunity for a fresh start and the chance to build new connections and experiences. It's a chance to embrace change and to restart. And with each new place comes the opportunity to explore and discover new things, changing my life in ways I may not have imagined.

When my dad gets deployed, it's like a piece of our family suddenly goes missing. His absence weighs heavily on all of us, especially during the big moments – birthdays, holidays, and all those times when I just want him around. But the best part is when he finally comes back home. The joy and relief of having him back with us is amazing. It's a feeling that is hard to describe with words, a moment that is unique. We cherish every moment together, knowing that his return marks the end of a challenging chapter and the beginning of a new one filled with love and togetherness.

Growing up with a military family and being Filipino has meant lots of moving around. We've lived in the Philippines, Germany, the UK, Alabama, and now Okinawa. Each place has had its challenges and adventures, but the best part is always coming back together after deployments or moving to a new base. Some people don’t like being a military child; however, I love being a military child as exploring the world is the best thing ever. Meeting new people and creating connections is a beautiful experience. Being a military child makes you realize that the world is a big place.