Abstract: As a former career Army officer and a veteran of 25 years, I explore the evolution of my own veteran identity and its inherent assumptions, and examine how veteran identity is shaped and transformed by a variety of factors. Through my engagement with younger, Post-9/11 veterans I have come to a fuller and more generous explanation of what veteran identity is and how it evolves, and make a case for the importance of understanding these complexities so that an inter-generational alliance of veterans can be realized.
While most individuals achieve the transition to civilian life smoothly, some face significant challenges. Although numerous support services are available to those who need them, …