Dad Next Door: Brad Worthington

Brad Worthington

Brad lives in Roseville with his wife Gelika and three children Gabe (13) Elena (9) and Lily (6)

As a construction inspector for military projects with The California National Guard, Brad is finishing up a year-long deployment to Afghanistan (Air Force and Marines typically have shorter deployments, anywhere from 4-7 months).    We were able to catch up with him on his 15 days home to rest and recoup before he finishes his service.  Like all military families, the Worthington’s make great sacrifices and endure long periods apart, so they look for creative ways to stay connected.  As Brad points out, they rely on family members, grandparents and friends to pitch in and help.  The most important component to keep things running smoothly:  having a solid plan!

How do you stay in touch with your family while in Afghanistan? I am able to call regularly to talk to my wife and children which makes being apart so much easier. By having them share their experiences over the phone we all feel much closer. My son (like most teenagers) doesn't open up easily and our conversations would start with me asking him questions and he would have the typical answers, "I don't know, I guess” so I started to read the books that he was reading so that we have additional topics to talk about. That worked well and helped bring us closer.

Do you Skype? Skype is great when it works.  I have only had the opportunity a few times, but during those calls I was able to show my family the people I work with and the building I was in. I think it helps them to see that I am safe and that the people I am with are friendly.

What reminders of your family do you take with you? I am not able to take much, so my family sends things from home in the mail which is fun!   My son sent me all of his wresting medals and my daughters send art for my walls.  My wife sent me a pillow case from our bed as a reminder of home.

It must be difficult to go, how do you stay positive? Being positive helps the whole family. I need to show that I am not worried so that they do not lay awake and worry about me.  We talk about what kind of things we will do when I come home and make lists so that we are always looking forward.

What is one thing most people don't understand about the military lifestyle?  The most challenging part of my deployment is being apart from my family and not being home to share daily responsibilities with my wife Gelika.   We have to rely on friends, coaches, and most of all my parents, Ron and Deanna Worthington.   My parents who normally enjoy RVing across the country have taken time off from being retired and have been amazing at stepping in.  The soldiers who do not have family to help at home have additional stress and feelings of helplessness.  A good family plan is one the most important steps in preparing for a deployment.

How will your family celebrate when your tour is done? The whole family, including Grandma, Grandpa and Omi, are going to Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica to enjoy warm water and nice beaches!

Do you have a life motto? I borrowed mine from Alfred E. Neuman (MAD Magazine) "What--Me Worry?"

Edited by Lisa Thibodeau