Introduction

Veterans can be recently separated or long separated, which can include those with an honorable discharge or those who have retired. It is assumed that the military prepares them for everything they need in civilian life, but there are gaps in what they are told and what they need to know.

Many people make assumptions about Veterans, such as: ● They are all suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ● Their military skills make them automatically job ready ● They have a clear idea about their career path ● They know about resources available to them

The military is a culture - like any other culture. Ask if they served in the military - it is a great way to start the conversation

There are many other assumptions about veterans, but they would like us to know these 15 facts so we can better understand and serve them:

1. They are not all soldiers. Soldiers are only in the army. After question 1, ask “Which branch?” 2. The Reserves are part of the military (on standby, while active duty is full time). 3. Not everyone in the military is infantry. Asking what their job was shows you understand. 4. They have leaders at every level in their chain of command, with responsibility and accountability. 5. They are always on duty. They can be called back at any time. 6. They take pride in their appearance and their conduct, since they have to be prepared. 7. They did not all kill someone and those who have do not want to talk about it. 8. They do not all have PTSD. 9. Those who have an invisible wound are not dangerous and they are not violent. 10. It is really hard for them to ask for help, thinking that it is a sign of weakness. 11.Their military service changes them - through good and bad experiences. 12.They differ in how much they identify with the military after they leave active duty. 13.Their families serve with them. 14.They would die for each other and they would die for their country. 15.They have all made the sacrifice for one reason: to serve something more important than themselves.