Reflecting on Service and Community on Veterans Day
What has always stood out to me about Veterans Day was the silence from the Veterans in my life. When I would come up with ways to celebrate I was met with appreciation, but generally frustration and some confusion over why people suddenly want to celebrate and discuss Vets. This is partly because of the way we, as a nation, look at Veterans and war.
In war, there are no unwounded soldiers. ~José Narosky
We have a weird cycle when it comes to discussing Veterans. The speeches come, as do the parades, the monuments, and the warm and proud feeling of sharing a country with men and women who risk their lives so that I can enjoy mine. Then the celebrations subside. The statistics about the nightmares, depression, alcoholism, and suicide that plague our Vets all but disappear until someone shoves it in our faces and even then, we are too stunned to act. The issues affecting veterans sometimes feel too big: I am not part of the military and I have not seen war. I do not know what the issues are and I do not feel like I can help beyond saying “I support you.”
And make no mistake, that support goes a long way. But what is needed is a consistent voice in times of war and peace that remains deeply committed to preventing war at all costs and when war appears inevitable, support for the physical, emotional, and mental well being of soldiers is available at every step of the way–from the time they sign up to the time they return home.
And we must move quickly for this is not a matter of pity, this is a matter of justice. Pity allows for personal removal from the issue, condescension, and an unwillingness to see strength in sacrifice (afterall, who would actually want to be a soldier except for the desperate and lonely?) Yet when we are moved by justice we see the talents and treasures that each person brings that should be utilized in creating a better world and a connectedness that says “Your well being is tied up with mine–I cannot allow you to suffer.”
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them” ~ John F. Kennedy
So on Veterans Day, as we honor those who have served, I am making the following committments:
1. I will not trivilaize the importance of mental health and emotional support: You are not “crazy,” “weak,” or “stupid.” I recognize that my language and my attitude have an impact on your ability to get the support you need.
2. I will integrate your needs into my work: “All Volunteer Force”,” a report released today, highlights the desire of young veterans to volunteer when they return and how those who have volunteered have better transitions back. As someone who has devoted my life to service through nonprofit work, I know that the desire to give back is a crucial asset for social change. I will make a conscious effort to include you in the ongoing conversations and activism regarding about social change, social innovation, and volunteerism. And I will encourage my collegues to do the same.
3. I will support causes that reach out to you: I have always admired CUNY (City University of New York) for their Veteran outreach initiatives. However, I am blown away all the time by how many people, moved by your stories and experiences, decide to start new programs and organizations. Civic Enterprises in their “All Volunteer Force” report outline 14 ways we can tap into your talents at the national, state, and local levels.
4. Most of all, I will listen: Although I consider myself an ally, I do not know your story and I cannot tell it. But I can at the very least listen, share, and ensure that your voice is heard.
What other commitments can we make?
Aunt Cheryl, Uncle Donald, Larry, Jerry, and Jasmine–thank you for your service abroad and your continuing service at home.



