Air Force Gen. Dan Caine said, "Yesterday, I had the incredible honor and privilege of speaking with some of our young soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The unit and the crew that fired the first precision strike missiles."
While the conflict unfolds overseas, it is stirring deep emotions for veterans and military families here at home. For many in Cumberland County, the military is not just a presence; it's woven into daily life.
Toni Forte, a 36-year veteran and chapter service officer with Disabled American Veterans, says news of the strikes brings back familiar concerns for those who once wore the uniform.
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"There's fear that what's happening in the Middle East may continue on longer than expected," Forte said. "Folks are concerned about what happens if someone's injured and there is a disability involved."
Forte emphasizes the importance of preparation for military families who may suddenly find themselves navigating the unknown.
"We can prepare them for what needs to be on file, and that's something that any military family really ought to be looking at, is a contingency file of what is the worst case scenario," she said.
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Local schools are also playing a key role in supporting students from military families. Dr. Natasha Scott, Executive Director of Student Services for Cumberland County Schools, said, "In Cumberland County Schools, we also have a military family and youth liaison. They help us to stay informed about resources and things that are happening, online policies, family concerns, and trends that are happening."
About 29% of students at Jack Britt High School and at Gray's Creek Elementary come from military-connected families.
"We have what are called 'MFLCs,' which are counselors specifically aimed at supporting military family life. These counselors, social workers, and psychologists are provided to our schools by the installation and are placed in our schools that have the highest percentage of military-connected students," Scott said.
School leaders say moments like this can bring uncertainty for kids, especially when world events affect military families. But they also note that school can be a refuge.
"School is a place that can be stability," Scott said. "It's nice for students when parts of your life can feel unsure as a result of a deployment, and that parent is not there. For school staff, we can provide a sense of stability."