The study found that 91% of serving personnel had missed significant life events because of deployments, training commitments or being stationed away from home.
Among the moments missed were seeing a child take their first steps (29%), the birth of a child (21%), saying goodbye to a dying family member (21%), attending the funeral of a close relative (20%) and even their own wedding (17%).
The findings shine a light on the personal sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and the families who support them throughout their careers.
Swindon has strong links to the Armed Forces community, with a growing defence sector and an increasing Ministry of Defence presence in the town.
Responding to the research, Swindon North MP and former British Army soldier Will Stone said military families often make sacrifices that go unseen. He said:
“I’d like to pay tribute to all our service personnel and the sacrifices they make in joining the military but, as this research shows, it is not only the service men and women who sacrifice for our country but their families too.
“I know from my experience of times when soldiers have missed out on family birthdays or not been there for family health scares. It can be incredibly difficult for those in uniform to be away from their families whilst they serve our nation, and I know too how difficult their family members find it when a pillar of support, from a mum, dad, son, daughter, sister or brother, is missing at pivotal moments.”
He added:
“I will always pay tribute to veterans and their families. That’s why I’m proud to be part of a government that’s investing £1.5 billion into retrofitting and modernising Armed Forces housing so that people can feel safe and secure at home whilst their relatives are away.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that provided the first real terms pay increase to Armed Forces wages in 20 years and continues to provide above inflation wage increases so that family finances are secure when loved ones are on operation.
“And I’m proud of Swindon and the Labour Government in committing to the Armed Forces Covenant, which will be legislated for in the 2026 Armed Forces Bill, so that families know their relatives can get a fair chance at finding a job after leaving the Armed Forces.
“Armed Forces Day is a chance to reflect on the decision made by those in the Armed Forces to serve but also reminds me that no one achieves alone and as we thank those who serve we should also recognise the commitment of the families who keep them strong.”
The survey also highlighted the pressures faced by military families while loved ones are away.
Nearly half of partners of serving personnel said they had experienced loneliness, while many reported interrupted careers, isolation and the challenges of raising children alone during deployments.
Despite those challenges, almost three quarters said the sacrifices were worthwhile and that they were proud to be part of the Armed Forces community.
The research also suggested public recognition does not always reflect those sacrifices. In the South West, almost seven in ten people believe veterans, serving personnel and their families are not recognised enough for the contribution they make.
SSAFA described military families as the “unsung heroes” behind Britain’s Armed Forces and said it is continuing to encourage greater recognition of the role they play.
Last year, the charity supported more than 50,000 veterans, serving personnel and their families across the UK through practical and emotional support.
