Military Child Embodies Spirit of the Dandelion in Wiesbaden, Germany

As a military child and a member of the USO Youth Advisory Council (YAC), Katie Shea has not only learned how to embrace change, but also how to navigate it. The Youth Advisory Council, a leadership initiative, empowers military teenagers to plan and execute events that build community within their schools.

“The world is so big,” she said. “And being a military child has allowed me to see all those places, visit the different communities within the States and overseas. It’s just a really cool experience.”

Unlike some who view frequent moves as a disruption, Katie sees them as an invitation to adventure. This perspective and her resilient spirit have shaped her into someone with a deep appreciation for new experiences.

Her journey with the USO YAC began by putting herself out there to help others. When her mother volunteered at the USO in Wiesbaden, Katie and her twin sister tagged along. What started as a simple registration turned into a great opportunity. USO Wiesbaden Center Operations Manager, Carmen Blanco, told Katie and her sister about the YAC opportunity. Now, Katie and her sister have been on the council two years in a row. “Being on the YAC was really fun last year so we joined again this year,” said Katie.

It’s a great community. We have lots of good people onboard and we get to make community events that really give back to all the kids and it’s a really great program.

The YAC has become a source of connection and purpose for Katie. She finds joy in planning community events that help her give back to her peers. One of her most memorable experiences was a Halloween event at the local elementary school, where she and her fellow council members helped children create Halloween-themed bracelets and drawings.

“This event was really fun for them - they were all talking to each other, showing each other their designs,” she said. “Seeing their bright faces and how this is making a positive impact on them - that felt amazing to be a part of.”

Of course, military life isn’t without its challenges. Moving in the middle of high school, leaving behind close friends, and being far from family can be difficult. “But we have to look at the positives,” she said. “This is a new experience. I’m in Germany! Here we can travel around Europe and see these amazing places. I like to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Much like the dandelion, Katie embodies the resilience and adaptability of a military child. The dandelion, officially recognized by the Department of Defense as a symbol of military children, thrives in any environment. Its seeds are carried by the wind, much like military families are moved to new homes and cultures. Just as the dandelion blooms wherever it lands, Katie finds adventure and connection in every move.

This ability to find the silver lining, to transform challenges into opportunities, is a testament to Katie’s strength and adaptability. She credits the community in Wiesbaden, the USO and fellow military families, for providing a supportive environment.

When asked what advice she would give to younger military children, Katie’s message is clear: “Put yourself out there.” She encourages them to embrace new experiences, introduce themselves to new people, and explore different cultures. “You don’t lose anything from trying something new or talking to different people,” she says. “There’s a lot to gain.”

Katie Shea embodies the spirit of a military child, finding adventure in every move and building community wherever she goes. Her story is a reminder that the challenges of military life can be transformed into opportunities for growth, connection, and a deeper understanding of the world.