Military families move every few years. They navigate deployments, career interruptions, childcare waitlists, and the daily weight of a life built around service. So, while service members navigate the changing tides of military life, their families do too. And when military families are strong, supported, and ready, so is the force—because behind every effective warfighter is a family that made it possible. 

This month, in honor of Military Appreciation Month, we sat down with Stephen B. Simmons, deputy assistant secretary of war for Military Community and Family Policy (MCFP), to talk about what it really takes to support the families behind our nation’s warfighters. From spouse employment programs and childcare access to real-time data and proactive family outreach, Simmons breaks down how his office is working to ensure that readiness starts at home.  

Stephen B. Simmons is the deputy assistant secretary of war for MCFP. He previously served 17 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, exiting as a Major in 2022. During his military service, Simmons served in roles as a site commander, operations officer, and retention officer.  

More Links and Information  

Check out more Fors Marsh Media  

Connect or partner with Fors Marsh  

Explore Military OneSource 

Use Plan My Move to help with transitions 

Review spouse employment resources with MySECO and the Military Spouse Career Advancement Account Scholarship. 

See other military family resources, like the Education Directory for Children with Special Needs, the Exceptional Family Member Program, and MilitaryINSTALLATIONS.