Veterans' Valor: Support and Stories

 Army veteran Dan Nevins, who lost both legs in combat, is advocating for the repeal of the so-called “wounded veterans' tax,” a policy that prevents certain injured veterans from receiving both full retirement pay and disability compensation. This policy affects about 50,000 veterans, costing each roughly $1,900 per month. Under current law, veterans with less than 20 years of service and a disability rating under 50% lose a dollar of retirement pay for every dollar received in disability benefits. Nevins is pushing for the passage of the bipartisan Major Richard Star Act, which aims to end this offset. The bill has strong congressional support but faces challenges due to its projected $9.75 billion cost over ten years. Nevins and fellow veteran Jamel Daniels are urging lawmakers to fulfill the nation's promises to its wounded servicemembers, emphasizing fairness and justice. Read more about Nevins's mission Here!

 The article "How Virtual Reality is Helping Heal Soldiers With PTSD" teaches us the power of exposure therapy. This article tells us the story of Jimmy Castellanos and how he was given virtual reality as a tool to cope with his PTSD. The virtual reality headset transported Castellanos back to Iraq. Going back to his traumatizing experience over and over again by using exposure therapy, this virtual reality experience changed Castellanos's reaction to his past. “It was a completely different experience,” he said. “I don’t remember having the physiological reaction… In 13 weeks I’d completely changed who I had been for the previous ten years. Before the treatment, 80-90 percent of my dreams were Iraq related. Now I can’t remember the last time I had one. I live in a completely different way now.” Read more about Castellanos's story and how VR is helping veterans through exposure therapy Here!

A story about tragedy turned into triumph. Army 2nd Lieutenant Melissa Stockwell lost her left leg at age 24 while she was serving in the Iraq war. In her Ted Talk she shares how she decided to not let this traumatic experience ruin her life. She decided to look to the future and be positive. She shares that losing her leg taught her the power of choice. Click the video above to hear more about Melissa's story and message.

 The transition from military to civilian life can be deeply challenging for veterans facing physical injuries, PTSD, or addiction. Yet, stories like John’s recovery from amputation, Sarah’s journey managing PTSD, and Mark’s path to sobriety after substance abuse highlight the resilience and strength of those who served. With the support of specialized programs, therapy, and community, these veterans found healing and purpose beyond service. Their experiences underscore the critical role of support systems in recovery and serve as powerful reminders that, despite setbacks, it’s possible to rebuild a meaningful life after military service with hope, perseverance, and connection. Read more about these veterans' stories Here!

This video shares the story of Chuck and his family after Chuck, a veteran and father of this family, came home from war with PTSD. This video raises awareness of veterans with PTSD and how it not only effects them, but their families as well. Learn more about Cuck and other personal stories involving PTSD hurting veterans and their families by clicking the video above!

 This Marine shares his PTSD journey and what coping mechanism worked best for him. He hopes to show other veterans that they can receive help too. Click the video above to learn more!