I read a story about a veteran this week — and it’s one I’ve heard, seen, and lived before.
A 37-year-old woman, who served in both the US Coast Guard and the Air Force, shared on Reddit that she’s stopped telling other vets about her service. Why? Because too often, instead of solidarity, she’s met with skepticism, nitpicking, or outright dismissal. The most painful part? This treatment comes not from civilians, but from fellow veterans.
Her story resonated with hundreds. Many admitted they, have felt the need to hide their service. Conversations that should spark connection sometimes devolve into competitions — who deployed more, who was in combat arms, which branch is “real” military.
For women and non-combat veterans, the judgment can be even sharper.
But the story didn’t end in frustration. Within the same thread many comments showed encouragement, respect, and support. Veterans from all walks of life reminded her — and all of us — that service is service. Every barracks, every branch, every story matters. Some shared coping strategies: humor, neutral responses, or simply stepping away from toxic conversations. Others simply said: *don’t let anyone take away your pride in uniform.*
At RED Friday — as we Remember Everyone Deployed — it’s worth remembering something else too: the importance of lifting each other up so that we all win.
Wearing red is a symbol, but respect and empathy are the action.
The bonds we forged in service should not be broken by insecurity or comparison.
The truth is simple: for every dismissive voice, there are many more veterans ready to build, support, and respect. We choose which side of that equation we want to stand on.
To other veterans: Have you ever felt the need to keep your service to yourself? How do you navigate those conversations?
#REDFriday #RememberEveryoneDeployed #Veterans #supportourheroes. directory #WomenVeterans
