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Practical guides. A stronger Friday.
Getting started / My people
A good gathering should leave room for the people who share your life, not just your service history. Here is how to make Veteran meetups more welcoming for partners, relatives, and civilian friends.
Helping The Brave Editorial · October 2, 2026
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The mission, every day
Clearer information. Useful connections. A next step you can take.
My purpose & who I am · October 1, 2026
Leaving the military can make you feel like you lost your purpose. But purpose is not something you find, it is something you build, one small mission at a time.
Veteran voices · September 30, 2026
Dr. Chrisanne Gordon joins the Helping The Brave Podcast to discuss Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and PTSD. She explains why we should see these not just as mental health issues, but as brain injuries that change how Veterans experience the world.
My routine · September 29, 2026
Use the planning skills you learned in the service to build a calmer, more predictable civilian week. A Sunday reset helps you take charge of your schedule and make time for what matters most.
My benefits, money, home & health · September 28, 2026
Vet Centers offer free, confidential counseling and support to eligible Veterans and their families. They are separate from VA medical centers and can help you adjust to life after the military.
My people · September 25, 2026
After service, many Veterans miss the strong bonds of their unit. Purpose-driven community events can help rebuild that sense of belonging and shared mission.
Benefits education · September 24, 2026
Before you share your records or agree to pay for help with a VA claim, check who you are working with and what they are authorized to do.
Veteran voices · September 23, 2026
This recap of our podcast with Air Force Veteran Ken Mellott explores his powerful story of service, survival after a near-fatal accident, and his journey through PTSD to find a new identity.
My routine · September 22, 2026
Getting to your VA appointments is a key part of your health care, but it can be a challenge. Learn about free and low cost transportation options you might not know about.
My benefits, money, home & health · September 21, 2026
The VA home loan is a powerful benefit for Veterans, but buying a home is a major life decision. Asking the right questions beforehand can help you use your benefit wisely and find a home that fits your life and budget.
My people · September 18, 2026
Wondering how to check on a friend from your unit? It can be as simple as a text message. Here are some easy ways to reach out and rebuild the connections that matter to all Veterans.
My purpose & who I am · September 17, 2026
Moral injury is a deep wound to your conscience and values, different from PTSD. This guide explains what it is, why it happens, and how Veterans find a path to healing.
Veteran voices · September 16, 2026
In a recent podcast, 20 year Navy Veteran Jason Sharon shares his story of service in the nuclear program and how he transitioned to a new mission: helping Veterans use their VA loan benefit.
My routine · September 15, 2026
Waiting for motivation is a trap. The discipline and routine you learned in the military are your best tools for staying fit, and free Veteran communities can provide the team you need to stay accountable.
My benefits, money, home & health · September 14, 2026
An Intent to File tells the VA you plan to apply for benefits. It locks in an early effective date, giving you up to a year to gather evidence and file your full claim without losing out on potential back pay.
My people · September 11, 2026
For many Veterans, September 11th is a deeply personal anniversary that marks the start of their journey in service. Gathering with others who understand is a powerful way to process memories, honor a shared purpose, and reconnect with your community.
My purpose & who I am · September 10, 2026
Leaving the military can mean losing your sense of purpose. For many Veterans, finding a new mission through community service can rebuild that feeling of belonging and impact.
Veteran voices · September 9, 2026
In a recent podcast, Jonathan Knaul shares his story of 33 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, from the Navy to the Air Force. His journey highlights the realities of operational stress and the hidden weight of caring for loved ones.
My routine · September 8, 2026
Leaving the military can disrupt your sleep, but rest is a skill you can rebuild. Learn small, powerful habits to improve your sleep and know when it is time to talk with a doctor.
My benefits, money, home & health · September 7, 2026
Applying for VA health care is one of the most important steps you can take to access your earned benefits. Being prepared with the right documents can make the process much smoother.
My people · September 4, 2026
Leaving the military can feel like losing your tribe, especially when you move to a new place. Here are some proven ways for Veterans to build new connections and find a sense of belonging.
My purpose & who I am · September 3, 2026
Losing the clear identity of military service can leave you feeling lost. This feeling is a normal and common part of the transition to civilian life, and it can be the start of building a new sense of purpose.
Veteran voices · September 2, 2026
In a recent podcast episode, Army Veteran Jared Maxwell shares his story of service, combat, and using writing to process the aftermath of war. Learn how telling your story can be a powerful tool for healing.
My routine · September 1, 2026
In the service, your day started with reveille. As a Veteran, you're in charge of your own wake up call, and you can use the discipline from the military to build a powerful morning routine.
Practical guides for life after service
Resources & care
Search VA hospitals, clinics, Vet Centers and community programs by what you need and where you are.
Find local help ↗Benefits education
Learn the difference between a VSO representative, claims agent and attorney before choosing claims assistance.
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Community & Firewalk
Explore Operation Firewalk, the people behind it, and ways to support the mission.
Explore Operation Firewalk ↗Life after service
Explore the CIVOPS lessons on identity, communication, support and building a sustainable week.
Explore CIVOPS ↗
This week's conversation
Ed Parcaut sits down with Veterans and the people who serve them. Listen right here on the site.
Listen to the latest episode ↗The Friday edition
The stories that matter, the released podcast, and a useful next step. Formerly the Brave Brief: Friday Edition.
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