Every year, Mission Roll Call (MRC) connects directly with America’s veterans through polls, surveys, and open discussions to better understand their experiences and priorities. In 2025, thousands of veterans across the country shared their thoughts on healthcare, access, family well-being, and the systems designed to serve them.

Their insights reveal not only what veterans need, but what they teach all of us about resilience, leadership, and the importance of being heard.

Here are ten things veterans taught us in 2025.

1. Choice and Flexibility in Care Matter.

A May 2025 poll on the ACCESS Act of 2025 found that 67% of respondents believe the legislation will improve healthcare outcomes, and 71% of rural veterans said it would enhance timely access.

Lesson: Veterans taught us that empowering individuals with options matters, and one size does not fit all when it comes to care. Whether it’s choosing a provider, accessing services locally, or finding the right treatment, flexibility leads to better outcomes.

2. Innovation Is Essential for Wellness.

In a 2025 poll, 74% of veterans said they would use an online portal to schedule and track their care if one were available.

Lesson: Veterans showed us that innovation and convenience in healthcare aren’t luxuries; they’re expectations. As technology continues to transform the medical landscape, digital tools can bridge gaps, reduce wait times, and help veterans take charge of their health.

3. Transparency Builds Trust.

A March/April 2025 MRC survey found that 64% of veterans said they were concerned or strongly concerned that staffing reductions at the VA would affect their care.

Lesson: Veterans taught us the importance of transparency and stability. When systems change, people feel the impact. Open communication and accountability are critical to maintaining trust with those who’ve served.

4. Inclusion Strengthens Community.

In a November 2025 MRC survey on veteran community and belonging, many respondents reported feeling only “somewhat connected” or “neutral” to the broader veteran community, underscoring the importance of inclusive and generational recognition. The survey is still open, and veterans are encouraged to share their own experiences and perspectives at MissionRollCall.org/Veteran-Voices-Survey.

Lesson: Veterans reminded us that respect spans generations and service eras. From World War II to Iraq and Afghanistan, every story counts, and every veteran deserves recognition.

5. Food Security Is Still a Battle.

In an October 2025 poll, many veterans said they or someone they know had relied on food assistance such as SNAP or local food banks. In a separate Mission Roll Call poll during the federal government shutdown, 91% of veterans said they were concerned about losing access to food assistance, with SNAP benefits set to run dry on November 1.

Lesson: Behind the uniform are real lives, and veterans told us that meeting basic needs like food security is essential. Supporting programs that address hunger among veterans and their families must remain a national priority.

6. Staffing and Resources Shape Real Experiences.

A Mission Roll Call poll found that 44% of veterans were “very concerned” about the impact of recent VA staffing cuts, and 20% were “concerned.” Another 19% were not concerned at all, highlighting the varied experiences across the veteran community.

Lesson: Veterans showed us that staffing and resource changes are more than budget decisions; they directly affect the quality and timeliness of care. Sustainable investment in people and infrastructure matters.

7. Vigilance Protects Those Who Served.

In a July 2025 MRC poll, a significant number of veterans reported having been targeted by financial scams or fraud, highlighting the heightened vulnerability of those who’ve served.

Lesson: Veterans taught us the importance of vigilance and protection. Strong safeguards, education, and awareness are essential to preventing exploitation.

Lesson: Veterans taught us the importance of vigilance and protection. We must continue advocating for stronger safeguards, education, and awareness to prevent financial abuse among those who’ve served.

8. Voices Drive Change.

The ACCESS Act poll reached 1,292 respondents across all 50 states, 85% of whom identified as veterans.

Lesson: Veterans showed us that when they speak, leaders pay attention. Policies grounded in lived experience lead to more meaningful change.

9. Access Means Freedom of Choice.

In the same ACCESS Act poll, 60% of veterans said they were comfortable receiving mental health care from non-VA providers, and 79% said allowing veterans and families to seek care in the community without a VA referral would improve access.

Lesson: Veterans remind us that access isn’t just about eligibility; it’s about proximity, convenience, and the freedom to choose what works best for them and their families.

10. Systems Should Meet Veterans Where They Are.

Across polls and conversations, veterans expressed a common desire for systems that are “user-friendly, efficient, and meet them where they are.”

Lesson: Veterans remind us to design systems around people and not to force people to adapt to systems. When we prioritize accessibility, simplicity, and respect, everyone benefits.

Looking Ahead

This year’s insights show that veterans are not just asking for help; they are offering wisdom. Their opinions, based on our 2025 polls, taught us to lead with compassion, prioritize flexibility, and hold systems accountable to serve the people they were created to support. At Mission Roll Call, we are proud to amplify these voices because when veterans speak, America listens.

Join the Mission. Share Your Voice. Shape the Future.

Mission Roll Call’s 2026 polls are coming, and your voice matters. By participating, you help ensure that every veteran’s perspective is heard by the people who make decisions that affect your life and community.

Join Mission Roll Call today at MissionRollCall.org and be part of the conversation shaping the future for all who served.