On this Veterans Day … we’ve been asked to share a message delivered to West Seattle VFW Post 2713 members and friends a few days ago by one of their own, Jesse Palacios:
Today, we find veterans in nearly every walk of life. Almost everyone knows a veteran, has a family member who served, or knows a Gold Star family who has sacrificed a loved one in service to our country. We read their stories in books, see them portrayed in movies, and sometimes catch a glimpse of their experiences through their stories at social events. These stories can inspire us and remind us of the courage and dedication that come with serving our country.
Behind every uniform is a human being, and behind every veteran is a story that deserves to be heard.
I live in a world where conflict continues, and many people struggle to understand one another, and people stare at their devices more often than greet another human being.
For veterans, the challenges do not always end when they return home. The transition to civilian life can bring its own battles — some visible such as financial stress, others hidden deep inside such as rumination and hopelessness. Not every struggle is easy to explain, and not every veteran feels comfortable asking for help.
That is why the work is being done by medical professionals, veteran organizations, and community groups is so important. By working together, improving access to medical care and equipment, and finding new ways to support veterans-sharing resources, we can help more men and women move forward and reach their full potential and hopefully save a life.
For me, that mission became personal when my life changed dramatically after I joined VFW Post 2713 of West Seattle, District 2. I began to seek something more. I found camaraderie, a sense of belonging in the Honor Guard coalition at cemeteries, other events, and an opportunity to sit with other men and listen to their stories during our veteran’s appreciation dinners. Through those conversations, I learned that one of the most powerful things we can do for another person is simply to listen. Listening to the experiences of others helped me step outside my own thoughts and look at everyday problems from different perspectives. I began to recognize old patterns and wanted new ways, consider different solutions, and become more aware of how I viewed and reacted to the world around me.
The stories I heard—both military and civilian—reminded me that we may have different experiences, but we often share many of the same struggles. For me, hearing another person’s story helps us understand our own. It reminds us that we are not alone. Sometimes, that simple connection can make all the difference.
I believe veteran stories need to be shared beyond the walls of our VFW posts and beyond the circles of people who already understand military life. They belong in our homes, our communities, and our conversations with the next generation.
We must never underestimate the power of reaching out to a fellow veteran and checking on a friend, listening without judgment, or encouraging someone to seek help when life becomes overwhelming. We may never fully know what another person is carrying until we make sure they do not have to carry it alone.
Sharing our experiences can help even one veteran find hope and recognize that there is still a future worth fighting for. Your stories will serve a purpose far greater than the data bank on which they are remembered.
As you look to your left or right, I hope you find compassion in hearing a comrade’s story. I hope you gain understanding, build connection, and remember the strength that comes from standing proudly together.
I ask each of us to share our stories with a comrade, a family member, a young man or woman considering military service, or even a gentle stranger. Let us share the honor of serving our country, as well as the humanity and lifelong impact of that service.
Every day, and especially on Veterans Day, let us remember that honoring our veterans means more than thanking them for what they did in uniform or welcoming them home. It means standing beside one another, listening graciously to their stories, offering support, and helping them discover new possibilities in their lives. Our service took many different forms. Our stories may be different. Yet we can always look out for one another.
I appreciate you. Thank you.
God bless all of us and our United States of America.
Jesse Palacios
West Seattle VFW Post 2713
