Honoring Veterans Beyond Words: A Call to Action

A Veterans Day Reimagined

Every year, Veterans Day comes and goes, with the same ritualistic nod toward those who have served. The messages echo: "Thank you for your service!" But what does this really mean? For many, it feels like an empty platitude, as if saying 'thank you' is all we owe those who sacrificed so much. This year, I invite you to join me in rethinking our approach to Veterans Day.

Recently, retired Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann challenged the conventional narrative, arguing that veterans—along with their families—bring indispensable leadership skills to our politically fragmented nation. In his article on Fox News, he highlights how military families possess unique abilities to navigate adversity, manage stress, and connect with diverse groups—consider attributes sorely needed in these divisive times.

Moving Beyond Sympathy

While it's essential to acknowledge the physical and mental struggles many veterans endure, we can't ignore the wealth of resilience and wisdom they collectively possess. Far too often, veterans are portrayed as broken individuals who need our pity. This view is limiting and ultimately detrimental, not just for the veterans but for our society as a whole.

During his decades of service, Mann observed how military families face challenges that mold them into effective leaders. The sense of purpose they carry is not just born of their struggles; it's a powerful testament to their capabilities. We must ask ourselves: How can we leverage these strengths for the benefit of our communities?

The Call to Action

Consider the stories of three impactful veteran leaders who are transforming lives and communities:

1. **Ben Owen**: After a medical discharge, Ben faced homelessness and addiction but turned his life around to create 'We Fight Monsters,' a nonprofit dedicated to rejuvenating neighborhoods in South Memphis.
2. **Elisha "Perk" Perkins**: A communications officer in the Army, Perk faced life-threatening challenges but emerged empowered to start 'Pop Smoke for Vets,' providing service dogs to those in need.
3. **Kari Ellis**: After losing her husband to suicide, Kari found strength through her community and now manages projects that advocate for veteran suicide prevention.

These three stories exemplify a path forward—one that involves collaboration and community engagement. Veteran leaders are not seeking empty gratitude; they yearn for partnerships that can drive change.

The Power of Collaboration

So, how do we bridge this gap? How do we turn our federal holidays and remembrance days into catalysts for real change? Here are some actionable steps we can take as a community:

• **Engage in dialogue**: Create spaces where veterans can share their stories, not just of struggle, but of achievement and leadership.
• **Support veteran leadership initiatives**: Encourage programs that allow veterans to step into leadership roles within community organizations.
• **Volunteer time and resources**: Invest in projects that veteran-led organizations are implementing to improve local communities.
• **Advocate for policy changes**: Work alongside veterans to push for legislation that supports them and their families in meaningful ways.

Final Thoughts

The challenge lies in our willingness to look beyond a single day of commemoration. Our veterans are not just the heroes we honor; they are an integral part of our society's fabric, rich with potential. If we truly want to honor them, let's go beyond mere words and engage them as allies in the fight to heal our nation.

As we approach Veterans Day this year, my hope is for a renewed commitment to connecting, collaborating, and catalyzing the leadership potential within our military families.