Honoring Our Veterans
Today, I want to pause for a moment to reflect on who Veterans truly are—strong, determined, loyal public servants who make extraordinary sacrifices for our Nation. Veterans are not only protectors who have worn the uniform, but also compassionate leaders and innovative thinkers. They are warriors, skilled technicians, philanthropists, and humanitarians. They answer our Nation’s call with courage and dedication, standing in service while others often sit idle. Veterans are the backbone of America, tackling some of society’s greatest challenges, inventing and leading industries, building businesses, and fostering communities. They are the portraits of courage we look up to.
In so many ways, Veterans are larger-than-life heroes. Yet, they are as human as the rest of us—facing unique journeys, challenges, and transitions. When discussing the military and Veteran community, we must carefully distinguish between celebrating their remarkable character and acknowledging the realities they encounter due to their chosen profession.
Too often, conversations about Veterans slip into outdated stereotypes, reducing them to narrow images of "broken" or struggling individuals. I've sat in rooms where people, understandably frustrated by this limiting image, decide to simply "turn the page." But this stereotype is not who our Veterans are, and we must confront it, if not flat out reject it. Any mischaracterization speaks less to their abilities and worth and more about how we, as a society, respond to their needs when they transition back to civilian life. Most importantly, it speaks of the systems that fail to support them in their time of need.
The truth is many Veterans face transitions that most of us will never experience firsthand. Recently, I felt this deeply among friends where I experienced my own moment of clarity. I was gathered with some of my childhood non-mil friends and the conversation turned to our families transition from active-duty service. I talked about where we were in the process and the biggest news was my Veteran's recent medical check-ups related to his knees and head injuries from jumps. One of my friends stopped me, looked around, and asked us all to think about what I had just said— injuries from jumping… out of planes. It struck me as nothing but ordinary because it’s the life we’ve known. But at that moment, with their acknowledgment, I saw it for what it was—extraordinary.
My Veteran’s knees aren’t something I think about daily, but I know they’re on his mind, along with so many other things, as he plans for retirement. The reality is that while some Veterans find themselves on successful paths, supported by strong networks and flourishing careers, others—who have served just as faithfully, relocating their young families from base to base and often living paycheck to paycheck, face uncertain futures and struggle to find stability.
Their spouses face the highest unemployment rates in the country, contributing to higher rates of food and housing insecurity within Veteran families. Many also confront complex health needs that require an integrated approach to long-term care. Their children, impacted by frequent moves and inconsistent educational standards, often face additional challenges in school. These are the realities of their chosen profession. So, how do we show our appreciation?
Understanding these unique challenges is not a sign of weakness for our Veterans but an acknowledgment of their tremendous sacrifices by those that have benefited. Once we see and hear their experiences, it becomes impossible not to feel compelled to be part of the solution. For me, it is a call to action because we need Veterans and their advocates embedded in every layer of our communities—in schools, government offices, essential services, nonprofits, and as leaders across industries, not only to support fellow Veterans but to strengthen our society as a whole. When we lift up one, we lift up all.
I will always find it remarkable that less than one percent of our population serves to protect and defend the other ninety-nine, and more impressive, that it takes only one percent to do it. This is a testament to who Veterans are and the oath they take—not for fame or glory, rank or riches, but duty as they understand it to be.
Veterans offer society more than we realize—they bring resilience, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to our nation. It’s time we meet them with that same dedication by not only acknowledging who they are and what they have sworn to uphold, but advocating for resources, creating pathways, and fostering environments where they can continue to lead, inspire, and succeed all the days of their lives in communities across this great land.
Today and every day, I ask you to join me in honoring the true spirit of our Veterans— the heroes of past, essential leaders of today, and catalysts for a better tomorrow in ways that are meaningful to you and your community. They deserve our respect, support, and yes, unwavering gratitude.
With Gratitude,
Natalie Worthan, Founder
Empowering Veterans, Strengthening Communities