Air Force Veteran ◆ VA Disability Attorney ◆ Podcaster ◆ Service Member Advocate
Today, as we observe Veterans Day, it’s a time not only to honor those who have served but to reflect on our responsibilities as veterans and citizens. For veterans, the duty extends beyond our service terms—it becomes our obligation to advocate for those still in uniform, who often cannot speak openly about the realities of military service. This responsibility underscores a critical dialogue about what “thank you for your service” truly means. A few years ago, I recorded an episode post-Veterans Day discussing this very topic, challenging us to think beyond the phrase. When we say thanks, are we backing it up with actions that genuinely support our troops and veterans? Are we considering the human costs of military service and ensuring our military is used in ways that align with our national values? It's not just about acknowledgment but engagement—understanding the sacrifices involved and taking active steps to mitigate the costs borne by our servicemembers and their families. This Veterans Day, let's pledge to do more than thank our veterans. Let’s commit to listening, supporting, and advocating—ensuring their voices, especially those of current servicemembers who face constraints, are heard and heeded. To those still serving, to the veterans, and to the military families: your experiences matter, your sacrifices are recognized, and your voices are crucial in shaping a conscientious approach to how we, as a nation, conduct and discuss our military engagements. What steps can we, as a society, take to move beyond mere thanks to meaningful support? How can we ensure our military’s use reflects our core values as a nation?
