Chapter 2: Language Do’s & Don’ts ● Don’t call them soldiers (soldiers are only in the army). ● It is best not to say “Thank you for your service.” (Some take it as a forced or insincere pleasantry.) ● Don’t assume their branch or job in the military - ask. ● Keep your voice volume at a moderate level - avoid using an angry, threatening, or demeaning tone of voice. ● Refrain from making jokes about the military - even if you think they might have the same sense of humor as you. ● Don’t ask them about PTSD or other injuries, unless they offer the information themselves. ● Don’t assume that veterans cannot think for themselves - that they are like trained robots due to their military experience. ● Do ask Veterans about what their military service means to them. ● Do ask if they feel comfortable answering your questions. ● Understand that there is a cultural difference between the civilian and military work environments. ● Do feel free to share your own, your family’s or friends' military experience. This can help bridge the gap. ● Tap into their skills, talents, and passions and explore how these can transfer to civilian jobs.
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