Everyone can play a role in a veteran’s transition
I am a supporter of organizations that help the military community, but I have a special place in my heart for organizations dedicated to transitioning a service member because it helps the whole family. Investing in a transitioning service member can yield a positive impact far beyond the service member to the family members and the impact the family members have on the community. When the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) announced they were hosting the kick-off for the GallantFew Patriot Challenge (gallantfew.org), I wanted to be a part of it.
Why this challenge?
I am still learning about the GallantFew but an organization that provides support and resources to the military community in a one-on-one manner means, to me, that they are getting to know what that person needs. Every path through transition of any kind is unique. An organization that understands that is striving for a deeper connection. This can only lead to great, impactful things.
“We motivate communities…to take responsibility for veterans: welcoming, connecting, and including.”
GallantFew.org
Something else that caught my attention was from their mission statement, “… We motivate communities all over the nation to take responsibility for veterans returning; welcoming, connecting, and including.” Transition takes effort on the part of the veteran and members of the community all working in concert. I believe this whole-heartedly. So, it seemed fitting that I give it a shot.
I am an Army mom and an Army wife. I am also a member of the community that benefits from the sacrifices of service men and women. That makes me responsible for contributing to making sure the same service members are welcomed, connected. and included.
It was not an easy decision.
Sure, I knew I wanted to be a part of it but that doesn’t mean it was an easy decision. The Official National Kickoff Workout consists of three rounds of the following: 500 meters on a rower, 50 calories on a bike, and 15 kettlebell swings. Several thoughts crept in the made me reluctant to participate.
I knew all of this negative talk was exactly the reason to move forward. But, I stood still. Working out at the gym one day, my coach learned I hadn’t registered. My next training session was the 500, 50, 15. Once I knew I could survive it, it was hard to argue.
What happened?
Teammate, Courtney (NVMM), and I met the challenge together. Proud of you Courtney! I was also reminded of how
important it is to have people around you to push you out of your comfort zone and support you when you do, whatever the outcome. That’s how you grow!
I may have been the oldest but all of the other negative thoughts surfaced as ‘ridiculous talk’. Thanks to generous donations from my son (veteran) and others, I am close to goal and investing in transitioning service members.
What’s next?
As the mom of a transitioning soldier, I know the value of organizations like the GallantFew (gallantfew.org). I look forward to learning more about them. The GallantFew Patriot Challenge has just begun. Visit gallantfew.org to learn more about how you can contribute to transitioning veterans. Find a Patriot Challenge page of a team in your community and join, donate, or share.
Everyone can play a roll in transitioning service members.
