The call to serve one's country is an honorable tradition that has been upheld by generations of families. For many, answering this call means leaving loved ones behind and sacrificing time spent together in order to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. While there are many benefits to serving one's country, there are also some drawbacks. In this article, we will explore both the beauty and the not-so-beautiful aspects of having your parents or grandparents serve their country.

Honorable Experience

Serving one's country is an honorable experience that can be both personally and professionally rewarding. Those who serve are respected for their sacrifice, courage and selflessness—all qualities that will follow them into adulthood. As part of a larger picture, those who serve in the military help preserve freedom for all citizens. For example, in times of war, those who serve protect the safety and security of their fellow citizens.

Financial Benefits

Depending on the branch of service your parent or grandparent serves in, there may be financial benefits available to them as well as their families. These may include assistance with education costs, housing assistance, medical coverage and even tax breaks. Also, those who serve in the military have access to a wide range of employment opportunities and/or job training.

Sacrificing Time Together

Serving one's country often means sacrificing time together as a family. Some parents or grandparents may not come home for months or even years at a time, and this can be difficult for families to endure. Additionally, those who serve may experience different levels of trauma when they return home, which can impact their relationships with family members.

Pride in Service

At the same time, there is a tremendous amount of pride that comes from having your parents or grandparents serve their country. Knowing that you have someone in your family who is dedicated to protecting the freedoms we enjoy can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

History and Culture of Their Country

Having your parents or grandparents serve their country can also be an opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of that nation. Seeing first-hand how other people live and the importance of protecting freedom can be a valuable lesson that will stay with you for life.

Build Relationships Within Military Communities

Having your parents or grandparents serve their country can also provide you with the opportunity to build relationships within military communities. You may find that you have more in common with other children and families who are part of the same branch of service than those outside of it, which can be beneficial for both personal and professional growth.

Feeling Isolated and Alone

At the same time, however, there may be times when you feel isolated or alone due to your parents or grandparent's military service. Military families often find themselves apart from other family and friends for extended periods of time, which can be difficult to cope with. Additionally, some military members may experience mental health issues related to their service, and this can take a toll on their families as well.

Malignant Mesothelioma

In some cases, military service can also have serious long-term health effects. Those who served in the U.S. Navy may be at risk for developing malignant mesothelioma due to their exposure to asbestos during their time of service. Unfortunately, this disease can take years or even decades to manifest itself, making it difficult to diagnose and treat in many cases. However, there are resources available to those who have served and their families in order to help them manage any potential medical issues and they are serving all branches of the military.

Giving Back

Having your parents or grandparents serve their country is an incredible opportunity to give back. Many military families find ways to volunteer and contribute to the community, whether it’s through donating time or money. Additionally, they often share their experiences with other military families in order to help them cope with similar challenges.

Ultimately, having your parents or grandparents serve their country can be a positive experience that brings both joys and struggles. As you learn more about their service and the unique challenges of being a military family, you may find yourself feeling proud of their commitment and sacrifice. At the same time, it's important to remember that there are resources available for those who have served, and these can help provide support during difficult times. No matter what, having a loved one serve their country can be an incredible experience that helps you to grow and develop in ways you never imagined. The bonds formed during this time can last a lifetime.