Today is Military Family Appreciation Day, a day to honour and celebrate the families of veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members. Christine is a military family member part of our Babcock community. We asked Christine what this day means to her and her life as a member of a military family.
Christine has an extensive military family background. At age 16, her father became a member of the Red Deer Reserves Artillery Regiment, and later in his career moved to Shilo, Manitoba, serving for a total of 25 years. Christine’s husband joined the CAF at 17. He began his career in Communications as a Non-Commissioned Member and was then selected to become an officer. He is currently a Major in the Royal Canadian Medical Services. Christine’s husband played a leading role in the military’s COVID-19 response and is about to embark on his next deployment. Additionally, several of Christine’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews have served and continue to serve in the CAF.
As a member of a family with a strong military background, Christine discussed some of the biggest challenges she has faced over the years:
“Not knowing what is happening next. My dad was able to stay in Shilo until he retired and never moved to another base. My husband’s career is a different story. He has relocated several times, and I have moved with him three times in five years.”
With these challenges, Christine goes on to share how she manages the stress of deployment and her husband’s long absences.
“I really count on my friends and family for support. As well, I am used to being alone and independent, but my husband and I ensure we stay in communication as much as possible to keep our spirits up. The hardest part is knowing he can’t be by my side. We love to do everything together, and it can get very lonely.”
Alongside her friends and family, Christine relies on support from the wider military family community. In the Ottawa region, she has several military friends that always support one another. During Thanksgiving, her husband was on deployment; however, her friends made sure she was not celebrating alone.
“The military family community is very important to me, because they understand what I go through, and we connect more on the same level.”
One thing Christine wishes people outside the military community understood about military families’ experiences is that you are marrying into a lifestyle that not everyone understands until you experience it.
“It can be extremely stressful to move constantly. I have given up job opportunities and being close to family and friends, but I am with my partner for life. I will support him in everything.”
Throughout the years, Christine has experienced several moments that have been particularly impactful as a military family member.
“Seeing my spouse thrive in his career has made me very proud of him. One year on Military Family Appreciation Day, we were at a football game and were chosen to be on the big screen. I was in awe of the support people have for the military.”
Additionally, Christine expresses the impact her role at Babcock has on her life as a military family member.
“A moment that was meaningful to me was when I got a job at Babcock. Knowing our client was the military was an inspiring moment and I have never felt prouder of myself.”
As a military family member who has had years of experience, Christine shares her advice to new military families:
“Independence. I can’t stress it enough. You should be able to do things for yourself and not have to rely on your spouse when they are gone. Being alone is not always the greatest feeling, but it gives you time to focus on yourself and grow. As well, not many people can experience new places like military families do. You should take this to your advantage.”
On Military Family Appreciation Day, we honour Christine, her family, and all military families. We want to thank you for everything you do. Your sacrifices are noticed, and we deeply respect and acknowledge the impact you have made on the CAF’s mission and our country.
