FORT BRAGG, N.C. – For the Romero family, resilience is more than a word. It’s a way of life. Their journey from Fort Sill, Oklahoma, to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is a testament to the extraordinary sacrifices of military families, especially those raising children with exceptional needs.
At Fort Sill, the Romeros faced daily battles just to secure essential services like speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavioral support for their twin sons, who had recently been diagnosed with autism. With limited resources, long waitlists and a grueling four-hour commute for therapy sessions, it became clear that something had to change.
Fueled by love for their children and a determination to give them the support they deserved, the Romeros began the challenging process of requesting a compassionate reassignment. After months of paperwork, waiting and advocating, they were granted orders to Fort Bragg, a decision that would change their lives.
At Fort Bragg, the family immediately found the support system they had been searching for.
“It was very fast. As soon as we got here, the boys had access to services,” Mrs. Romero said.
Thanks to the wider range of therapies and educational opportunities available, the twins began to thrive.
One major breakthrough came when the Romeros discovered Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy. The virtual learning format provided a structured yet flexible environment where their sons could learn at their own pace without being overwhelmed by sensory challenges.
“It’s been a game changer,” Mr. Romero said. “Being at home helped them regulate their emotions and focus on learning. In a traditional classroom, there are a lot of sensory triggers that we don’t face at home. Now, if they’re overstimulated, we can help right away and keep them on track.”
The progress has been extraordinary. The twins, who once struggled with daily routines, are now confidently navigating school, therapy and activities. They wake up independently, log into their virtual classes and serve themselves breakfast. These are milestones that the Romeros celebrate with immense pride.
“It’s like a breath of fresh air,” Mrs. Romero said. “We’re far less stressed than we were before. Back then, we’d have to pull them out of school early for therapy. It just didn’t work. Now, everything flows.”
Beyond academics, the support of the Fort Bragg community has played a critical role in the family’s journey. From neighborhood events and Exceptional Family Member Program resources to the consistent understanding from Mr. Romero’s unit leadership, the family found not just services, but a home.
“They’ve been very encouraging,” Mr. Romero said. “They understand we’re doing this on our own, and they’re always willing to give us the time we need.”
As parents of children with unique needs, the Romeros offer powerful advice to others: advocate fiercely, lean on available resources and never be afraid to ask for help.
“We celebrate every milestone, no matter how small,” Mrs. Romero said. “For us, things like blowing bubbles or drinking through a straw are huge steps. Those are the kinds of moments that show how far they’ve come.”
When asked what the Month of the Military Child means to them, the Romeros reflected on the sacrifices military kids make.
“Our kids didn’t choose this life, but they live it with such courage,” Mr. Romero said. “They deserve to be recognized for all they endure and all they overcome.”
For the Romero family, life at Fort Bragg has brought not only structure and stability, but hope. With every new step their children take, they are reminded of what’s possible when military families are empowered with the right support, resources and community. This Month of the Military Child, their story reminds us that behind every uniform is a family, and behind every military child is a story of courage and strength.
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