Welcoming Home Our Soldiers: A Shared Responsibility to Honor Their Sacrifice

It is vital to remember the brave who risk their lives for our safety and freedom. The journey our soldiers undertake during their service is filled with danger, hardship, and sacrifice. When these courageous men and women return home, we all share the responsibility to make them feel valued and appreciated.

This Memorial Day, take some time and dive into the importance of honoring our soldiers and how we can actively make them feel welcome when they come home.

For some, the feeling of not coming home welcome can last years, perhaps forever.

Understanding the Sacrifice

The commitment of our soldiers extends far beyond their time in the armed forces. They face unimaginable challenges that can lead to both physical injuries and emotional scars. A staggering 30% of veterans experience symptoms of depression or anxiety following their service, illustrating the profound impact their experiences have on their mental health.

A program called Mission to Honor Veterans recognizes the depth of these sacrifices. It is the first step toward building a supportive community that honors their service. Acknowledging that their experiences may resonate long after their service has ended is essential in fostering empathy.

The Mission to Honor Veterans organization realizes our society is not good at making our veterans feel welcome when they come home. They leave defending the freedoms we enjoy in this country and they come home feeling unwelcome, uncared for, and in many cases disabled.

The Importance of Welcoming Environments

Returning soldiers often struggle with reintegration challenges, such as adjusting to civilian life, coping with trauma, and reconnecting with family. Research shows that a supportive environment can significantly ease these transitions. For example, communities that organize public welcome events for veterans report an increase in feelings of appreciation among the soldiers, with about 85% feeling a sense of belonging after such gatherings.

And THAT is exactly what the Mission to Honor Veterans organization does. And they're good at it. They create a space that mimics the return our veterans should all experience. They celebrate their return and the veteran as a human being. They provide a virtual flight experience to all of the memorial sites in Washington D.C. for those who may not have the means or the capability to go. No large crowds, the event honors 110 veterans at a time. From check-in at the airport, going through Southwest TSA, greeting the pilot and the stewardesses, and being served snacks and drinks in their seats, they experience the respect and dignity they ALL should have had when they came home.

Veterans are treated to breakfast and a full lunch. For those who live in facilities like assisted living or memory care, they receive motorcycle escorts to Foothills Church in Cameron Park. Older military vehicles are on display to inspire memories between the different armed forces and the wars in which they partipated.

Encouraging local businesses to participate by offering discounts or free services to veterans can further deepen this sense of community connection.

Community gathering to celebrate soldiers returning home.

Encouraging Community Involvement

Every community member has a role in making soldiers feel welcome. Grassroots efforts can make a significant difference.

One of the soldiers we spoke to was in the Vietnam war and refused to speak to anyone about it, including his grandson. He was convinced to attend and upon leaving the program, the veterans were cheered on as they walked back to their transportation. When speaking to him and his wife two weeks later, he said after over 50 years, he FINALLY felt welcomed home. His wife told us he shared with his grandson when his grandson asked him about it again. It was a first for the both of them.

Celebrating Individual Stories

Every soldier has a unique story filled with bravery and sacrifice. Sharing these narratives can humanize their experiences and strengthen community ties. Consider organizing events or using online platforms to showcase local veterans' journeys.

Storytelling serves as a bridge between veterans and civilians. It encourages understanding and respect for the sacrifices made, which can help the community engage with returning soldiers more meaningfully. These are individuals that should be looked up to by our youth with respect. Without them, we would not have this country we have today.

A soldier's service medals symbolizing honor and sacrifice.

A Collective Duty

Fiduciaries have a duty to advocate for the person they work for. To do the right thing in their name. Ultimately, welcoming our soldiers home is a shared duty for all of us. We owe it to our veterans to help them transition back to the life and country they left behind. From organizing community events and sharing stories to engaging with local organizations and supporting families, there are countless opportunities to express our gratitude.

When you see a veteran, SEE them. Thank them and speak to them. Celebrate them in conversation and make them feel valued. A warm welcome home is not just an event; it forms the foundation of a community that honors their service for generations to come.

Together, let's make an impact. Tell them about events like Mission to Honor Veterans, buy them a coffee the next time you're standing in line. Our soldiers are vital members of our community. By honoring their service and connecting to them with respect, we show our youth what love of country and our fellow citizens is really all about. We reaffirm our commitment to the values they fought for—freedom, unity, and resilience.