Having grown up within a Roman Catholic family, I was immersed in the religious rites. I was an altar boy, attended Mass on Sundays, and received the sacrament of Confirmation. But as the years went by, I became more interested in the scientific explanation of things than with customary belief….
The Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) is a service that’s supposed to be there for veterans when they’re at their most vulnerable, offering immediate access to support through calls, texts, and chat. But lately, it’s clear the VCL has serious issues undermining its ability to serve veterans effectively. Despite the VA’s…
As a veteran, I’ve had my share of experiences with the VA healthcare system for over 14 years now, and let me tell you, it’s a mixed bag. The intention is there, but the execution often leaves much to be desired. Here’s a rundown of the major complaints many of…
Returning to college as a 42-year-old military veteran, I expected a fresh start—a chance to build a new career and apply my years of real-world experience to a field I was genuinely interested in. But the excitement quickly faded, replaced by a frustrating reality that left me questioning the value…
The military loves its training exercises. In 2006, my squadron found its way to Alaska for a few weeks. We were there to participate in Northern Edge, a yearly event put on by the Air Force that brings together multiple branches of the military for joint training. Essentially, it’s a…
Ah, yes. The elusive security clearance. I had one—nice and shiny, too—for about 15 years. I’m not going to tell you exactly what level I had or what classified info I had access to. That would be too easy, wouldn’t it? What I can tell you is that I was…
The view from the cockpit windows of a Royal Air Force E-3D AWACS is pretty enough. Any view from high above in the air is stunning, with the Earth’s curve barely visible, the sky growing darker blue the higher you go, and the clouds far beneath, casting long shadows across…
Why do I love the outdoors? Where else can you get a therapist, an art room, and a personal gym all in one package—no membership cost? Nature does have a way of humbling you, reminding you of your place, keeping you small, and simultaneously making you more alive than you’ve…
“The VA’s Mental Health ‘Care’: Where Veterans Go to Get Ignored” Ah, the Veterans Administration, America’s gesture of appreciation for our service. Instead of a welcome with open arms, it’s more like being given directions and saying, “Good luck finding the exit.” For vets who have mental health problems, that…
During my 11 years in the Navy, I can’t say I was a model sailor by any stretch of the imagination. I wasn’t a total screw-up or a dirtbag, but I definitely had my share of boneheaded moments. Actually, if I’m being honest, I had more than my share. What…
