Every November, my family spends time reflecting on the people and the things we are thankful for in our lives. It is my privilege this month to express my gratitude to the brave military families in our community during Military Family Appreciation Month. Every day these families stand by their loved ones who serve our country.
Pensacola Mom Collective is featuring the Stathopoulos Family, who are stationed here in our community about their military service.
Please introduce us to your family.
Nik (40), Elizabeth (it’s a secret), Gage (17), and John (7). We also have two dogs. A miniature Australian Shepherd named Jack, and a Boxer named Phoebe. We live in Tiger Point, Gulf Breeze, FL.
Please tell us about your service to our county.
Nik: I am a member of the US Air Force. I have been in the service for 18 years. I am currently an Instructor Pilot at NAS Pensacola for the Undergraduate Combat Systems Officer (CSO) program.
How long have you been stationed in the Pensacola area? Tell us about the different locations your family has lived over your military career.
Nik: We’ve been stationed at NAS for 3 years. We’ve previously lived in Abilene, Texas twice, and Rapid City, South Dakota, when I was assigned to the B-1B Bomber. We’ve also spent some time in Del Rio, Texas, while I was teaching Flight School for the Air Force.
How do you feel about moving around the country?
Elizabeth: I grew up in the same town my Mom was born and raised in, so moving was scary for me. Over time I grew to enjoy the process. All of our moves were very different, some harder than others, but each move started a new adventure. Each town grew our friendships and memories.
What are your favorite Pensacola activities as a family?
Nik: The beach, of course! Both my wife and I are from Florida, so our desire to get back here was very high. We both love the ocean.
Any tips for other military families that are planning a move to our area?
Nik: Get ready for a great assignment! There are so many activities to do in the area. The driving from Gulf Breeze to NAS can be slightly chaotic at times, but well worth it.
Elizabeth: Pensacola/Gulf Breeze area is hands down our favorite assignment yet. There are tons of things to do, so prepare to have a very busy schedule! Be prepared for the humidity because you’ll be spending a lot more time outdoors, and for good reason. Music and food festivals, farmer’s markets, the beach, and parades are abundant. There is a real feeling of community here.
What’s the best thing about being part of a military family?
Nik: The amazing friends and experiences we’ve had along the way. We’ve gotten to see so much of our country and have met some great life-long friends that we consider family.
Elizabeth: The best part of being a military family is by far the people. We’ve been incredibly blessed by the people our military moves have brought into our lives. Some military and others were native to the city we were living in. The bond is unique and very much cherished.
Pensacola Mom Collective thanks the Stathopoulos family and all military families in our area for their service and sacrifice!
