Southlake teen in running for military child of the year award

Being part of a military family often means a lot of relocating and for the kids it’s having to adjust to new schools and surroundings. But one Southlake teen didn't let that slow him down and now he's in the running for a national honor.

Travis Almand, 18, is a semifinalist for the 2018 Military Child of the Year. Children of U.S. service members ages 14-18 are considered.  

The Almand’s, an Air Force family, moved 10 times before Travis reached ninth grade.

“From the resiliency I built from moving so many times, I was able to handle all of those things at once and not really worry about meeting new friends because I'm used to that and having to restart,” Travis said.

Travis is a distinguished Eagle Scout and among the top 10 percent of his senior class. He was also a standout defensive end for the Southlake Carroll football team.

Some 90 students worldwide are being considered. Travis is one of 15 candidates from Air Force families. His dad is a colonel is originally from Midland and his mother is a pilot for American Airlines. They chose the city of Southlake to retire.

"The cliché is the kids say, ‘Oh you are ruining my life by making me move and leave my friends.’ I don't think he ever told us that we were ruining his life that way. Obviously it was heartache but he also able to look at the positive side,” mom Cathy Almand said.

From learning to fish in Alaska, to making friends in Honolulu and soaking up culture in Alabama, New Jersey, Florida and other places they've called home, it’s been quite the journey for Travis.

Travis said he’s honored to be considered for the award and is looking forward to his next adventure at college.

"I'm just excited to take what I've learned and what I've seen around the U.S. and the world and apply it to my education but also the friends I'll meet.”