A happy Mother’s Day to every mother who belongs to a military family! At IHG® Army Hotels, we understand the challenges of military life and always try to apply that understanding to our guests. In that spirit, we asked a few members of our team — all military moms themselves — to share advice they have for mothers in the military, mothers with children entering the military, or mothers with spouses in the military.
Cassandra Penman — Corporate Human Resources Specialist at IHG Hotels & Resorts:
“Despite the challenges that come with raising a child while serving, it was great being able to show my daughter that I had such a positive and prideful role while serving in the military. My daughter loved seeing me in uniform and spending time in the environment I served in. My advice to mothers serving or mothers with children who are serving is to know who your support system is and always have a backup plan if something doesn’t go as planned. Lastly, seek out assistance from the military. There are so many programs available to military families, spouses, etc., and they are great at keeping us afloat during challenging times.”
Denise Sutton — General Manager at the Holiday Inn Express® on Fort Hamilton
“Joining the military will give your children a chance to grow, learn responsibility & teamwork, and provide them with an opportunity to start, continue or finish their college education. As it relates to moms themselves, being a part of a military family is special. You look out for each other, especially when stationed away from home, overseas, or away from your own family.”
Savann Sing — Reservations Manager at the Holiday Inn Express & Staybridge Suites® on Fort Belvoir:
“As a mother with a child who is currently serving, I’ve spent months away from my kid, but my favorite memories are of the times we spent together. My advice to mothers with children entering the military would be to pursue a meaningful and rewarding career, embrace training and preparation for the future, and seek out fun and adventure in your life.”
Angela Carter — Front Office Manager at IHG Army Hotels on Fort Leonard Wood
“The biggest advice I can offer anyone coming in or moving from post to post is to look for your Family Readiness Ground. They will help guide you through the transition. When you get somewhere, explore! If you don’t get at least an hour away from post, you won’t know what adventures await you and your family. Also, look into your USO if your post has one. They’ll have activities, family nights, and local activities for the family. And remember… you are not alone, regardless of if you are new or are experienced, everyone will have a helpful way to make your life as a military mom a memorable one.”
Cristina Colon Caraballo — Front Desk Agent at IHG Army Hotels on Fort Jackson
“As a military spouse and military mom, the biggest challenge I’ve faced is being away from friends and family, but the travel that comes with military life also has its benefits. Some of my favorite memories are living in different cities, like when I got to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. My advice to mothers in military families is to be patient with yourself and give yourself grace. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Take a break when you get the chance and treat yourself to your favorite pastime when possible.”
Our gratitude goes out to the IHG Army Hotels team members that made this article possible and to the countless military moms making sacrifices for their country. From all of us here at IHG, we wish you a very happy Mother’s Day.
