By Marlin Smith
Technical Marketing & Technology, Senior Manager
Jesup, GA
April is the Month of the Military Child—a time to celebrate a truly unique group: military brats. I was born into the U.S. Army in Vicenza, Italy, and moved 11 times before my father retired from the 101st Airborne. Along the way, I attended 8 different schools. The word “brat” may sound harsh, but to us, it stands for something powerful: brave, resilient, adaptable, and tenacious (BRAT).
Marlin at age 4 (1967) in Fort Rucker, Alabama
Sgt. Marlin Smith (Marlin’s father) in his uniform in Fort Rucker, Alabama
So, what does that mean for my RYAM family?
Mission-Driven
Military kids are raised in a mission-first environment. We grow up learning the value of teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility.
Our message: Give us a mission—we’ll get it done.
Adaptability
New homes, new schools, new friends—change is our constant. For us, adapting isn’t difficult; it’s second nature.
Our message: Change doesn’t shake us—we embrace it.
Resilience and Tenacity
Being a military child means facing uncertainty and challenge head-on. We don’t crack under pressure—we rise to meet it, leaning on the mission and on each other.
Our message: When you see a brat, know they’re serving too.
Military children deserve recognition for their strength, sacrifice, and spirit. They’re not just along for the ride—they’re a vital part of the journey.
Marlin and his wife, Connie, in downtown Jesup
