Dr. Gordon T. Austin Remembers Soldiers Striving to Balance Family, Duty

NEW YORK, NY, June 22, 2012 (Press-News.org) This past Father's Day had many children across the country appreciating the support and presence of their fathers. However, for many returning soldiers, this appreciation proved especially difficult as they reintegrate with their families. A recent article from CNN expresses the many concerns that these veterans have as they attempt to reestablish bonds with their children after returning home from a war zone. Dr. Gordon T. Austin, an award-winning Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and US Navy Veteran, confirms that this process is especially challenging and encourages children of military parents to continue giving support and appreciation for their services.

According to CNN, approximately two million American children have at least one parent who is serving overseas for the United States military. Nearly half of American troops are parents, and most of them are fathers. For many returning soldiers, there is a great struggle to reconnect with their children. In fact, many young children have to be reminded that the serviceman or woman is their actual parent. As stated in the article, "A core challenge many military parents face is the need to reconnect with a child who has undergone significant developmental changes while they were away - the daughter who transitions from school-age to "tween," the infant who now walks and talks and doesn't recognize his father, the teenage son who has a hard time adjusting to someone new setting rules at home."

Dr. Gordon T. Austin went through this very process himself when he returned from a year-long deployment with the Marines. He recalls the emotional struggle of having to serve his country while also having to miss out on his daughter's childhood development. However, as stated in the article, members of the military share a unique responsibility: protecting their country while also protecting their children. Austin relates to this balance and is often reminded of the rewards, "My daughter did not understand at the time why her daddy missed those early birthdays and Holidays. Today as an adult she always reminds me on Father's Day how proud she is to have a father who served his country."

While these situations present challenges for every military family, the article encourages returning soldiers to simply remain contact with their families. It suggests taking part in daily activities to slowly rebuild those bonds. These situations also provide military families with a unique advantage to overcome especially difficult challenges in the future.

While every soldier's return is different, Dr. Gordon T. Austin reminds Americans, "On Father's and Mother's Day, as on Memorial and Veterans Day, we all need to be thankful for this sacrificial service to our nation."

ABOUT:

Dr Gordon T. Austin, a retired Navy officer has received many honors throughout his career as a veteran and dental professional. After serving 38 years in the US Navy, Austin used his surgical expertise to become an award-winning professional for patients in the Carrollton, Georgia community. He is currently the Vice President of the Reserve Officers Association and a proud supporter of the Freedom Alliance.

Website: http://drgordonaustin.net