Honoring Veterans: Celebrating 250 Years and Supporting Transition Programs

Honoring Our Warriors This Veterans Day

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Veterans Day is not just a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for their country. The Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) believes that it’s essential to ensure our veterans receive the support they need long after the day of recognition has passed.

On November 11, a day dedicated to honoring our brave servicemen and women, WWP will spotlight the challenges faced by veterans adjusting to civilian life. According to WWP’s findings, many of these warriors encounter hurdles that can make or break their transition. The organization is determined to address these issues, providing ongoing assistance to help them acclimate.

Unpacking the Challenges Faced by Veterans

For many, this transition is challenging. Veterans often struggle to find satisfying civilian careers that honor their military experience. Accessing essential medical care and rebuilding the vital camaraderie they once had in the military are additional challenges faced by many. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Walt Piatt, the CEO of WWP, emphasized, “We owe it to our warriors, not just on Veterans Day, to assist them in their transition to civilian life. Wounded Warrior Project is devoted to helping each veteran find their way back home – in mind, body, and spirit – to a life of purpose.”

The need for such support has become increasingly evident, particularly for women veterans who often face heightened difficulties. A recent report, the 2025 Women Warriors Report, revealed the specific challenges faced by these individuals. For many women, the loss of rank, uniform, and comrades can lead to identity issues and feelings of being undervalued.

Insights from Women Warriors

WWP conducted 18 focus groups to dig deeper into the unique experiences of women warriors. Their findings are telling: 41% of participating women identified as living paycheck to paycheck, while 78% reported getting less than the recommended seven hours of sleep per night. An alarming 87% reported experiencing anxiety, and 83% stated they dealt with depression.

One woman expressed the struggle: “You’re not wearing a rank. You’re not in a uniform anymore. You don’t have comrades standing next to you.” These statements highlight the deep emotional and psychological impacts that military service can have, particularly on female veterans.

Finding Purpose Beyond Service

For many veterans, finding purpose in civilian life can vary greatly. Jessica Roza, a veteran and advocate, shared her dedication to championing the causes of her fellow veterans. She stated, “Women who look like me, who have experienced life like me, deserve equity. Our service counts. Our struggles are valid. Our voices matter.”

Capturing the voices of veterans is crucial, especially as the military becomes smaller and younger generations grow disconnected from service members. Opportunities that foster meaningful connections can help strengthen communities for all veterans.

Organizations like WWP play a fundamental role in facilitating healing and growth. As a nation, it is imperative that we extend our recognition beyond Veterans Day. Embracing our veterans means welcoming them back into our communities as neighbors and friends.

The Importance of Community Support

Veterans’ return to civilian life signifies an important transition, yet it does not conclude on November 11. Community engagement, outreach, and the support of organizations like WWP are integral in making this journey smoother for veterans.

On this Veterans Day, as we reflect on the service and sacrifices made by our servicemen and women over the last 250 years, let’s also commit to a future where we provide consistent support, hope, and a sense of belonging to those who protected our freedoms. Wounded Warrior Project stands ready to empower veterans, ensuring they thrive once they put their uniform away.

For more information about Wounded Warrior Project and how to support veterans, visit their official website.