Families destroyed, children orphaned, wives widowed, and mothers left alone—these are the true consequences of war. Beyond the battlefield, war leaves behind lives shattered and hearts broken. It’s easy to sit in the comfort of our homes, unaware of the sacrifices made by those in olive green—our brave soldiers who fight for their people and their motherland, ready to lay down their lives so we can live in peace.

War is cruel. As an army brat, I’ve seen this, felt this, and lived this reality firsthand. Every time news of conflict or border tensions surfaces, a deep fear grips me. The “what ifs” begin to swirl in my mind. What if it was my parent who lost their life that day? What if I never got to see them again?

These thoughts make me hold my parents a little tighter and breathe a sigh—of relief and of regret. Relief that my loved ones are still with me. Regret that another child, just like me, is praying for their parent to return home—only to never see them again.

It weighs heavily on my heart. I feel sorrow and guilt in knowing that while my world remained intact, someone else’s world collapsed in seconds.

People living safely in their homes may never fully grasp the constant fear that shadows the families of army personnel. Yes, our parents chose this life, knowing the risks it brings—but that doesn’t make it any easier. I cannot help but feel both proud and anxious.

Proud—that I am an army child, connected to the strength and discipline of the olive green.
Anxious—because with that pride comes the looming fear of loss and the unknown.

This duality lives within every heartbeat of a soldier’s child: the honor of belonging to something bigger, and the quiet dread of what the next news alert might bring.

Sonam Dewang Wangmo (Thagang) is a Class 12 student at Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi. A keen reader, prolific writer, and eloquent orator, she has a deep interest in international relations, Model United Nations, and painting. Growing up as an army kid has profoundly shaped her perspective on resilience, gratitude, and service. She has actively supported crowdfunding and awareness campaigns focused on children’s welfare and education, and aspires to use her creativity and experiences to drive positive social change.