Troop Talk

In this week’s column, I want to focus on responsibility and commitment – not only of parents to their children, but particularly of young teens to their parents.

Military parents and their children live in an environment like no other.

This causes increased stress on the family and on the children who are already under the stress of simply growing up. This may cause those left behind to react with anger, resentment and aggression.

Recently, we have seen a few children and teens behaving inappropriately, such as shoplifting, fighting in community centers and vandalizing private and government property. There have been increases in the unauthorized use of “air-soft” type weapons against bystanders and even groups of children against each other in our neighborhoods. These incidents occur, for the most part, after dark and often after curfew. I remind parents of the curfew currently in effect: minors 17 and younger are not allowed outside past 11 p.m. without adult supervision.
Children and teens normally act out their frustrations because of absent family members, frequent or recent military changes of station, or simply as a way of rebelling against their parents.

Parents should be watchful of indicators – changes in appearance, wearing apparent gang logos, becoming difficult to talk to, or never letting parents meet their friends – as these could precede more serious offenses. Soldiers and family members concerned with unauthorized activities are encouraged to join in their Neighborhood Watch program. The program is a great deterrent for unauthorized and illegal activities. I encourage anyone witnessing suspicious or criminal activity to notify the Military Police immediately.

When MPs apprehend dependents involved in these types of activities, they are sent before the Installation Juvenile Diversion Board. This board consists of members that include, but are not limited to, the provost marshal, inspector general, staff judge advocate, chaplain and the directors of Child and Youth Services and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Decisions can range from probation to community service, and in extreme cases, to the dependent being barred from the installation. The special assistant U.S. attorney can prosecute dependents involved in more serious crimes.

Most parents are diligent, discipline their children and are positive role models. However, the types of behavior discussed above are unacceptable and will be dealt with accordingly.

If you, as a parent, are experiencing challenges with your child, there is help available through the chaplains, Army Community Services, the Armed Services YMCA and local community organizations. Any parent or child who has questions about services can call 568-4505. They will be referred to the appropriate agency for information and assistance. Please help us keep Fort Bliss safe and a great place to live and serve.

Maj. Gen. Robert P. Lennox
Fort Bliss Commanding General