The Awkward Moments That Teach Us: Cultural Growth in Military Life

Many military families living overseas experience cultural misunderstandings that, while initially uncomfortable, often become valuable learning opportunities. For instance, a U.S. Army family stationed in South Korea mistakenly assumed that hosting a large backyard barbecue for their neighbors would be a welcome gesture. However, the gathering coincided with a national day of remembrance and was perceived as inappropriate by local residents. Rather than retreating from the misunderstanding, the family used the incident as a gateway to learn about Korean holidays and customs. Over time, they began to participate in local events and even hosted traditional meals in ways that respected Korean traditions while sharing American culture in return.

In another case, a Navy spouse in Sicily recounted how her attempts to greet neighbors with a handshake were met with confusion. It was only after a conversation with a local community liaison that she learned Sicilian greetings are more informal and often involve cheek kisses, particularly among women. What began as confusion turned into a lesson in adapting social behaviors. These types of encounters are common among military families living abroad, and when addressed with humility and openness, they can foster cross-cultural understanding and personal growth. According to the Department of Defense’s Education Activity (DoDEA), cultural immersion is a key component of successful overseas assignments and contributes to both mission readiness and family wellbeing¹.

Maintaining Traditions While Embracing Host Nation Customs

Striking a balance between preserving one’s cultural identity and embracing the host nation’s customs is essential for military families. Many families find meaningful ways to blend traditions, creating a shared experience that honors both cultures. For example, during the Christmas season, American families stationed in Germany often incorporate local customs such as Advent wreaths and St. Nicholas Day into their holiday celebrations. By doing so, they not only enrich their own experience but also demonstrate respect for the host country’s heritage.

These blended traditions can also strengthen family cohesion and community ties. A Marine Corps family stationed in Japan began hosting an annual mochi-making event with their neighbors, combining the Japanese New Year tradition with American potluck dinners. Events like these help bridge cultural divides and foster relationships that can be vital for emotional support during deployments and transitions. Research from the RAND Corporation highlights that community integration significantly reduces stress and increases resilience among military families overseas².

Actionable Strategies for Building Cultural Awareness Abroad

Military families can take several practical steps to build cultural awareness, enhance their overseas experience, and foster mutual respect with host nation residents. First, attending pre-deployment cultural orientation briefings is essential. These sessions, often hosted by base relocation offices or the Family Readiness Group (FRG), provide critical information about local customs, etiquette, and legal expectations. Families should also actively seek out language learning opportunities, even if limited to basic greetings and phrases. Studies show that language