As we observe Veterans Day, it’s essential to remember that honoring veterans goes beyond simple recognition of their service. One of the most profound ways to honor them is by listening to their stories. Veteran memoirs offer unique insights into the human side of service, sharing raw, unfiltered experiences that shape those who serve. These voices foster empathy and bridge a gap between the civilian and military worlds, helping us better understand the sacrifices and complexities involved in military life.
The Role of Memoirs in Veteran Storytelling
Veteran memoirs provide a deeply personal view of military service that often goes untold in historical accounts or news stories. Through memoirs, readers encounter the authentic and varied experiences of those who have served—each story adding dimension to what it means to live through combat, separation from loved ones, and reintegration into civilian life. For many veterans, writing is a way to process and heal from these intense experiences, transforming what they endured into narratives that connect us all. Their stories become not only a means of self-expression but also a form of advocacy, shedding light on the critical issues veterans face, such as PTSD, the challenges of readjusting to civilian life, and the lingering emotional toll of combat.
Here’s an excerpt from an essay I wrote some years ago, reflecting on my own military service:
My time in the Air Force was officially one year, four months. Because I did not serve my full contract, let my supervisors down, never deployed, didn’t qualify for benefits, and never finished my job, I didn’t think of myself as a real Veteran. When I would mention my military service, people asked how long I was in. I felt ashamed having to explain, just over a year. I hadn’t put in the time others had, so I was a fraud. I wasn’t really part of the club. I didn’t have experiences of war to relate to, months spent in the sand. So my time didn’t really count.
After twenty years since leaving military service, I finally was able to find the courage to apply for a service-related disability that allowed me to start receiving some benefits. Sharing this experience feels vulnerable, yet it’s precisely what makes veteran memoirs essential. They provide a space where veterans from all backgrounds can contribute to a larger narrative of service and sacrifice regardless of the length of service or the specific nature of their experiences.
The Importance of Independent Publishers in Veteran Storytelling
While the value of veteran stories is undeniable, not all voices are heard equally, and this is where independent publishers play a crucial role. Independent publishers often champion underrepresented and authentic voices, making them ideal partners for veterans who may feel their stories don’t fit the mold of traditional publishing. For veteran memoirs, this means creating a space for narratives that may be more nuanced, personal, and impactful.
A few publishers that come to mind are Casemate Publishers, Hellgate Press, and Akashic Books. Casemate, for instance, has a strong focus on military history, making them a natural fit for veterans with stories of wartime experiences. Hellgate Press and Akashic Books bring an independent spirit and a history of working with authors who tackle complex, often underrepresented topics.
As a veteran and freelancer at Plumb Creative, I have also worked with other veterans to help write and self-publish their stories. And here at Ooligan Press, our mission is “to publish culturally relevant titles from our local, marginalized voices to make literature accessible and redefine who has a place within its pages.” By supporting publishers like these, we help veterans share their unfiltered truths with the world.
How Readers Can Support and Engage with Veteran Stories
There are many meaningful ways to engage with veteran voices.
• Read and Share Veteran Memoirs: One of the simplest but most impactful ways to honor veterans is by reading and sharing their stories. Veteran memoirs not only offer insight but can help raise awareness within our communities.
• Support Veteran Authors and Publishers: By purchasing books from veteran-owned bookstores or supporting independent publishers who work with veteran authors, readers help ensure these stories reach wider audiences.
• Attend Local Events: Participate in Veterans Day readings or book signings to engage directly with veterans and their stories. These events are often intimate, offering a unique chance to hear firsthand accounts and ask questions, creating connections that extend beyond the page.
On this Veterans Day, as we reflect on the sacrifices of those who have served, let us honor the courage it takes for veterans to share their stories. Veteran memoirs are powerful reminders of resilience, community, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. By reading, sharing, and engaging with these voices, we take meaningful steps toward understanding and honoring the whole experience of military service.
If you or anyone you know is in need of support, the Veterans Crisis Line is a 24/7 open line of communication and resource for veterans.
Written by Julie Kanta.
Instagram: @plumbcreative
OpenAI provided the names of the suggested publishers other than Plumb Creative and Ooligan, as well as suggesting tags and keywords.