Behind the Uniform

They say that behind every great soldier is a great spouse—and I’d argue that saying deserves a thoughtful update to reflect our reality.

Thank you. Thank you for being here, for being who you are, and for everything you do. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, plays a role in keeping our families strong and supporting the well-being of our serving members. As Coretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

Being a military spouse often means standing in the background, without fanfare or recognition. But make no mistake: your role is vital to the strength of our military community.

The challenges are real—frequent relocations, uncertainty, and the inability to make long-term plans can shake even the steadiest of foundations. While some may envy the exciting destinations, they don’t always see the sacrifices: leaving behind meaningful work, stepping away from a career where you were valued not just as a spouse, but as an individual. With each move comes a need to redefine yourself—personally, professionally, socially.

And yet, you rise to meet these challenges. You've built new networks, stepped outside your comfort zone, adapted to unfamiliar environments, and become more independent and resilient in the process.

You often put your family’s needs before your own. But please—don’t forget to put on your own oxygen mask first. Your presence is essential, but so is your well-being. Make time to check in with yourself. As your circumstances shift, so too do your needs—and it’s okay to reassess and ask for help when needed.

If you’re facing a difficult moment or supporting a family member who is, you don’t have to go through it alone. Visit our Family Mental Health webpage for resources including free, confidential support from our MFS US Family Counsellor and the Family Information Line (FIL) at 1-800-866-4546. They’re here to listen and guide you to the right support.

If your relationship is going through a tough time—or if you’re simply looking to strengthen your connection—the Hold Me Tight Program might be just what you need.

To all our incredible military spouses: thank you. Your strength, compassion, and quiet leadership do not go unnoticed. You are the heartbeat of this community.

- Written by Anne-Marie Béliveau, MA, MSW, RSW