The Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University is conducting Operation Military Experience, a nationwide study to capture the diverse experiences of families who faced parental deployment. We are interviewing families with two adolescents who both experienced the deployment of a parent after 9/11 when they were younger.
Whether they wore the uniform, managed the household in their partner’s absence or shared early experiences of a deployed parent with a sibling, these stories are important. This study will help us understand the impact of military service on parents and children, influencing future support programs for military families.
The Operation Military Experience project has completed data collection. Many thanks to all the families — both parents and adolescents — who participated in this project. Please check this website for updates about the products from this research project.