Sgt. Applebottom is a soldier in the United States Army. He is proud to serve his country, and he is determined to provide a great life for his family. Sgt. Applebottom always brings home a clue about his new duty station on the day he receives orders. He researches the area where his family will be living, and is always able to tell his children about the things they will love to do there. Sgt. Applebottom is determined to make relocation a positive experience for his children. He believes that the Army gives him and his family a wonderful opportunity to explore the world, one base at a time. Melissa Davis created this character to honor her father who really did make her life as a military child a rewarding and exciting experience.

Mrs. Applebottom is an Army wife and mother. She loves taking care of her home and children. Mrs. Applebottom embraces the opportunities that come with being married to a soldier. She always reminds her children that no matter where they move, their family stays the same. Mrs. Applebottom loves creating traditions and collecting keepsakes. Her positive attitude about relocation is contagious to her children. Melissa Davis created this character in honor of her mother who taught her family values and continues to provide her encouragement and strength on a daily basis.

This book was written based on some of the personal experiences the author had as a military child. Melissa Davis decided which concepts and ideas to include in the book by considering what would have been helpful to her when her family relocated. The book was designed to get children in military families excited about moving to new places. Parents, teachers, counselors and others can use Home is Where the Army Sends You as a tool to help children of military families visualize exactly where they are going, thereby relieving some of the anxiety associated with relocation. Children who have recently arrived at Fort Bragg will find this book useful as they search for ways to have fun around the city. Every person who is in contact with a military child should consider the possible uses of Home is Where the Army Sends You. Books are powerful, and this book will arm children with the knowledge they need to make the unknown a little less scary.