JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
It’s Month of the Military Child and since the 1980s, we have taken time out to recognize the huge sacrifices our military kids have and continue to make on behalf of our nation. This month, we applaud military kids – young and old – for not only the daily sacrifices made but also for the challenges they are able to overcome.
The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center recognizes the importance military children have in the success of our mission. We asked AFIMSC military and civilians to share their experiences as military children.
David Malone, Air Force Civil Engineer Center Exercise Plan program manager at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland shares his experience as a military child when his father and brother proudly served in the U.S. Army.
What does the Month of the Military Child mean to you?
The Month of Military Child brings back memories and feelings of pride for my father (Lt. Col. K. Malone, U.S. Army) who passed away in 2012. As well as appreciation for my brother (retired Col. K. Malone Jr., U.S. Army).
What was life like being a military child?
The life of a military child allowed me to experience the diversity of other races at a young age, especially as an African-American. I lived on base at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, until the age of 10. Even today, 40 years later, when I go back to that base I recall the things I did and learned there.
How did you cope through those changes, through youth centers, camps or community centers, etc.?
I remember when staying on base at Fort Sam Houston, the elementary school I attended, learning to ride a bike, learning to swim, watching the 4th of July fireworks above the parade grounds … all among some of my first and happiest memories.
Was being a military child a strong influence in you serving in the military or as a federal employee?
Being a military child has made working as a federal employee and before as a contractor, just feel natural. The discipline a military child receives is second to none, and has stuck with me through my entire life as well as the treatment of my own children. I can see that I’ve raise my own children in the shadow of my father’s teachings.