If I Heal, Will I Lose My Warfighter Identity?

We don't talk about this often, but there is a very real fear in many of you that says if you heal, you'll lose your identity as a warfighter. Fear that healing will cut the ties you have to who you were, who you are and who you want to be. Along with it, is … Continue reading If I Heal, Will I Lose My Warfighter Identity?

Things Combat Vets Wish They Could Tell You | Part 1

One of the most challenging aspects combat vets face when coming home is the gap between who they are now and who their loved ones expect them to be. Warriors say that you can't translate much of what they've been through, because there is no substitute for being there. And there is deep truth in … Continue reading Things Combat Vets Wish They Could Tell You | Part 1

Things Combat Vets Wish They Could Tell You | Part 2

If you haven't read Part 1, please do. This is part of a discussion designed to help combat vets help others understand them better. If this article resonates with you, pass it along to a loved one. Here is what I hear from vets and what they are often unable to share with others: 1.) … Continue reading Things Combat Vets Wish They Could Tell You | Part 2

A Warrior’s Call to Courage After War

How do you see yourself? Don't let your wounds and fears and feeling stuck in this perpetual hell of the unknown take away your identity. Don't let it erase the truth that you are incredibly strong, resilient, tenacious, brave. Don't let a diagnosis replace who you are. You are not your diagnosis. You are not … Continue reading A Warrior’s Call to Courage After War

Families After War: Who Are You Supposed to Be Now?

For families after war, homecomings are joyous events. You are reunited with someone you love dearly. But what is not talked about as much is the mixed feelings and emotions families and veterans have over homecoming. As happy as it is, it can also be a time of trepidation, uncertainty and difficulty. Sadness, grief and … Continue reading Families After War: Who Are You Supposed to Be Now?

Spirit Wounds

War hurts the human spirit. That's why you can be physically whole and unharmed and still feel pain over your experience.  Or you may simply feel that something just isn't right. You can't quite pinpoint it. And you may tell yourself that you've come away (gratefully) unscathed. But you haven't. War - no matter how … Continue reading Spirit Wounds