My father was in the Air Force the first 15yr of life and I wouldn't have wanted it anything different.  Yes he was taken away to war and we did anquish over his orders to leave and the time he was away.  I remember every detail very clearly, I was a "Daddy's Girl".  Nothing was hidden from us.  The one thing we didn't have was communities assisting the Military families.  We were just another family out there with a father who was away at a job.  I am now 49 and very greatful for the people today who take in a family and give of their time to confort them.  The activities that communities create and the support groups that are formed.  We didn't have that, however I am glad for those that do now.  I'll thank you for them.  Patty S