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Veterans in Society

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https://hdl.handle.net/10919/116300

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Browsing Veterans in Society by Author "Martin, Marsha"

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    Unveiling the Unseen: Bridging the Gap for Veterans with Felonies and Less-Than-Honorable Discharges
    Martin, Marsha (2024-04-14)
    There is currently a community of veterans that often find themselves hiding in the shadows. While there are numerous studies that cover justice-involved veterans that are receiving services from specialty courts such as Veteran Treatment Courts, a gap remains in the literature that examines the lived experiences of veterans discharged under less than honorable conditions or felony convictions (Craddock, 2022; Douds & Hummer, 2019). This presentation seeks to shed light on this overlooked segment of the veteran population by delving into the unique adversities these individuals face during their post-service reintegration journey. A project of this magnitude underscores the necessity of far-reaching public collaborations. Veterans that transition out with a less than honorable discharge, “bad paper”, often find themselves unable to take advantage of opportunities that could change the trajectory of their lives. It is critical to address the continuous oversight and lack of knowledge surrounding the various types of discharges awarded. Additionally, the lack of support significantly impacts the well-being of this ostracized group of veterans, such as finding employment, limitations on the availability of benefits, and associated stigma. In an effort to right past wrongs, previous researchers have acknowledged that the eligibility requirements of select programs should be expanded to include veterans with other than honorable discharges on a case-by-case basis (Moore 2023). While numerous dimensions of military identity such as obedience, honor, order and discipline, and loyalty may be assets during active military service, the same is often not said of those who have been convicted of criminal actions and behavior while serving. As members transition, the resulting identity change from active-duty military member to convicted felon, can immediately trigger an unexpected identity crisis due to lack of veteran status recognition among society. It’s widely known that in our judicial system double jeopardy is prohibited; an individual cannot be subjected to trial for the same offense more than once. However, a veteran that exits the military with both a felony conviction and a negative discharge effectively endures a form of continuous double jeopardy, even though not of a judicial nature it can be viewed as collateral consequences. In light of the numerous barriers that lie in their path, the overarching ambition extends beyond identification. Subsequently, championing for a deeper, empathetic, and holistic understanding of their distinct experiences and challenges is paramount. This presentation underscores an unwavering commitment to every shade of the veteran experience. The desire is to spark meaningful discussions, elevate awareness levels, and catalyze positive and lasting changes that will redefine these veterans’ lives. In order to holistically understand the broad domain of veterans, it must be viewed through an all-encompassing lens. While many find their rightful spotlight, others, despite their significance, remain muted. Our initiative champions the cause of those underrepresented, ensuring that each story, each experience, is acknowledged and celebrated in our collective narrative. It's a call to unity, recognition, and understanding. Together, let's pledge to redefine the narrative, ensuring that every veteran is served, voice is heard, and valued.