When it comes to healing from the invisible wounds of war, many veterans find themselves searching for relief beyond traditional treatments. One increasingly talked-about option is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)—a treatment that’s been around for decades but is now gaining attention for its potential to help veterans, especially those dealing with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress (PTS).

But what exactly is HBOT? How does it work? And why are more people, including members of Congress, urging the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to embrace it? Let’s break it down.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The pressure is typically about 1.5 to 3 times higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This environment allows your lungs to take in significantly more oxygen than they would at sea level.

Why does that matter? Because oxygen is essential for healing. In a hyperbaric chamber, the oxygen you breathe dissolves into your blood plasma and spreads more effectively throughout your body, even to areas with poor circulation or tissue damage. This super-oxygenation helps fight infection, reduce inflammation, promote the growth of new blood vessels, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

HBOT is FDA-approved for several conditions, including carbon monoxide poisoning, diabetic foot ulcers, and decompression sickness (aka “the bends” in divers). But it’s the emerging applications—like treating brain injuries—that are drawing attention from the veteran community.

How Can HBOT Help Veterans?

Veterans returning from military service often face a unique set of health challenges. Chief among these are TBIs and PTS—both of which can have long-term effects on mental clarity, memory, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Several studies and anecdotal reports suggest that HBOT may offer relief. The theory is that by flooding the brain with oxygen, HBOT can reduce inflammation and promote the repair of damaged brain tissue. For veterans who’ve suffered from blast injuries or repeated concussions, this could be a game-changer.

In some cases, veterans undergoing HBOT have reported improvements in:

– Cognitive function and memory

– Mood and emotional regulation

– Sleep quality

– Headache frequency and severity

– Anxiety and depression levels

While HBOT is not a cure-all, it appears to offer promising results when used alongside other therapies. For many veterans, especially those who’ve tried traditional medications or counseling without success, HBOT can feel like a long-overdue breath of hope.

Which Veterans Are Most Likely to Use or Need It?

HBOT is most commonly considered for veterans who:

– Have suffered a TBI from explosions, falls, or combat incidents.

– Are diagnosed with PTS, particularly when accompanied by symptoms like brain fog or chronic fatigue.

– Experience chronic pain, such as from wounds that have healed poorly or nerve damage.

– Struggle with treatment-resistant conditions, where conventional treatments haven’t provided relief.

In particular, veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars—where improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were a constant threat—are among the most likely candidates. However, HBOT may also benefit older veterans with lingering effects from service-connected injuries.

Who’s Funding the Research?

Research into HBOT for brain injuries and PTS has been a mix of private and public funding, though much of the recent momentum has come from private organizations and state-level pilot programs.

Nonprofits like HBOT4Heroes, The TreatNOW Coalition, and The Healing Arizona Veterans Foundation have stepped up to sponsor HBOT treatments and conduct studies outside of the traditional VA system. Meanwhile, some state governments—like those in Oklahoma, Texas, and Florida—have launched their own HBOT pilot programs for veterans.

On the public side, there has been limited but growing federal interest. Agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD) have funded some HBOT studies, but the VA has been slower to act, citing a need for more conclusive scientific evidence.

That said, many in the medical and veteran communities argue that the real-world results speak for themselves—and that further inaction may be costing lives.

What’s Happening in Congress?

The push to make HBOT more accessible to veterans isn’t just coming from doctors and advocacy groups—it’s also gaining traction in Washington.

Over the past few years, several bills and resolutions have been introduced in Congress urging the VA to recognize and adopt HBOT as a treatment option. These efforts are typically bipartisan, reflecting widespread concern for veterans’ mental health across the political spectrum.

Some of these legislative efforts have aimed to:

– Authorize funding for HBOT pilot programs within the VA.

– Allow veterans to seek HBOT treatment from approved private providers and have it covered by the VA.

– Mandate further research into HBOT’s effectiveness for TBI and PTS.

Though progress has been slow, the increasing pressure from veterans’ groups and state-level successes is pushing the issue forward. Advocates argue that if the VA won’t offer HBOT, it should at least allow veterans to access it through the Veterans Community Care Program, which enables treatment from non-VA providers.

The Bottom Line

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy isn’t new, but its application for veterans with TBI and PTS is. As more veterans share stories of healing and as research continues to show promise, the momentum behind HBOT is growing.

While it’s not yet widely adopted within the VA, there’s hope on the horizon. From state-funded pilot programs to bipartisan efforts in Congress, the push to give veterans access to this therapy is gaining steam.

For many veterans, especially those who feel like they’ve tried everything else, HBOT could offer not just treatment, but renewed hope for recovery.

If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with TBI, PTS, or chronic pain, it may be worth exploring whether HBOT is available in your state and keeping an eye on future developments from the VA and Congress.

Because sometimes, the path to healing really is just a matter of taking a deep breath.

In this special two-part episode of The Lasting Mission podcast, Mission Roll Call CEO Jim Whaley sits down with longtime friend and fellow veteran Walt Piatt, retired Lieutenant General and the new CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project. 

Their conversation covers a lot of ground—from their early days in Panama to leading two major veteran organizations—but the message is clear: we need to do more to support the men and women who served. 

Part One: Finding Purpose After Service 

In Part One, Walt shares his journey from enlisted infantryman to Army general, and now to CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project. He talks about the challenges many veterans face after leaving the military—losing their sense of identity, struggling to reconnect, and carrying the invisible wounds of war. 

Wounded Warrior Project helps veterans find their way back through mental health support, programs like Project Odyssey, and simply reminding them they’re not alone. 

“Healing begins with movement,” Walt says. “And we walk with veterans every step of the way.”

Watch Part One:

Part Two: Advocacy, Transition & Family Support 

Part Two focuses on what’s next for the Wounded Warrior Project and for the veterans and families they serve. 

Walt explains how WWP is working to improve access to care, support veteran families, and make sure lawmakers hear directly from warriors themselves. He also opens up about how writing poetry helped him process his experiences, and how important it is for all veterans to find their outlet for healing. 

“You can’t just leave the military and expect everything to fall into place,” Walt says. “We have to meet veterans where they are—and keep showing up.” 

Stay tuned for Part Two to be released on July 25. 

Why This Matters 

• 1 in 3 post-9/11 veterans face challenges with PTS, brain injury, or trauma.

• More than 50% of veterans aren’t connected to the VA or a support organization.

• Connection saves lives—and that starts with all of us. 

If you’re a veteran, a caregiver, or someone who wants to help, visit woundedwarriorproject.org to get involved, or check out missionrollcall.org to see how we’re working together to make sure no one is left behind. 

 

 

As we mark 249 years of freedom, Mission Roll Call reflects on the veterans, families, and communities who continue the fight for independence every day. 

As the nation gathers for barbecues, fireworks, and patriotic celebrations, July 4 marks a checkpoint on a journey nearly two and a half centuries long. This year, we celebrate 249 years of American independence, just one year shy of the nation’s 250th anniversary. But freedom, as every veteran knows, isn’t just something we inherited—it’s something we continue to fight for, defend, and rebuild. 

At Mission Roll Call, we see independence not only as a founding principle, but as a shared responsibility—one carried most directly by our veterans and military families. 

From the Minutemen of 1776 to the service members of today, American freedom has always depended on ordinary people rising to meet extraordinary moments. But service doesn’t end with enlistment. It doesn’t even end with a homecoming.  

For many veterans, the real battle begins after the uniform comes off—fighting for physical healing, mental well-being, stable housing, meaningful work, and a sense of purpose that comes from being part of something bigger. 

That’s why we say: independence is a team effort. 

It’s the veteran learning to navigate a new career after service.
It’s the caregiver who helps a loved one manage post-traumatic stress.
It’s the community that installs a ramp, offers a job, or shows up to listen.
It’s the network of support—both seen and unseen—that helps veterans reclaim their own freedom after fighting for ours. 

These efforts are especially important as we look ahead to America’s 250th year. Milestones like this invite us to reflect not only on how far we’ve come, but on where we’re going, and who we may be leaving behind. 

Today, more than 18 million veterans live in the United States, and nearly half are not connected to the VA or any veteran service organization. Many are navigating complex challenges alone. Rural veterans face geographic isolation and gaps in care. Others struggle with the invisible wounds of war. And too many are still fighting to be seen and heard, long after their last deployment. 

At Mission Roll Call, we’re working to change that. Through nationwide polling, community outreach, veteran storytelling, and policy advocacy, we bring veteran voices directly to the people and places where change can happen. And that starts with you. 

This Independence Day, let’s do more than celebrate freedom. Let’s honor it by supporting those who make it possible. Lend your voice through our open polls and surveys so we can continue to enact positive change and support those who need it most. 

The fight for freedom didn’t end in 1776. It continues every day—across dinner tables, hospital rooms, town halls, and Capitol Hill. And together, we can carry it forward. 

In June, we turned our focus to two groups who too often go unseen—underserved veterans in rural and minority communities, and those living with the effects of post-traumatic stress. Through storytelling, research, media outreach, and open polling, we continued our mission to elevate the voices of veterans, advocate for policy that meets their needs, and provide tools that support their well-being. 

From local heroes rebuilding after disaster to national conversations about suicide prevention and access to care, we worked to ensure that no one who served is left behind. 

Here’s what you might have missed: 

Underserved Veterans and PTS Awareness in Focus 

We shined a light on rural and minority veterans and their families, exploring the barriers they face and the work being done to close the gaps. From highlighting key facts about rural veteran populations to uplifting efforts like Operation Honor: Rural Salute, June’s features challenged us to pay closer attention to the communities that are often overlooked. 

– Connecting Rural Veterans and Their Families Through Operation Honor: Rural Salute
– 6 Things You Might Not Know About Rural Veterans
– Veterans Are Speaking Clearly on the ACCESS Act. Congress Should Listen.
– The State of Veteran Post-Traumatic Stress
– How to Find Mental Health Care If You’re A Veteran – Even In A Rural Area
– 7 Everyday Ways to Support Veterans’ Mental Health 

The Lasting Mission Podcast 

In June, The Lasting Mission podcast wrapped up its two-part conversation on the opioid epidemic with Voices for Non-Opioid Choices. We also continued our coverage of veteran homelessness with Part 2 of Matthew Landis’ powerful story—from hitting rock bottom to rediscovering purpose and community. 

Subscribe to The Lasting Mission on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, and help us spread these critical conversations by sharing the podcast with others. 

Mission Roll Call University (MRCU) 

Our YouTube channel, Mission Roll Call University, continues to grow as a trusted resource for veterans and families. In June, we released a practical guide to locating VA facilities near you—an important step in connecting to care and support. 

Watch, subscribe, and share to help us ensure veterans have access to the guidance and resources they need to thrive. 

MRC Town Hall: Your Voice, Your Power 

We hosted a live-streamed Veteran Town Hall, bringing together voices from across the country to talk about real veteran experiences and solutions. From policy gaps to personal stories, these conversations help guide our work—and remind us how powerful it is when veterans speak directly to one another and to leaders. 

MRC in the Media: Real Stories, Real Impact 

In June, our work was featured in national and local media outlets, amplifying veteran voices and advocating for smarter, more compassionate policy solutions. From thoughtful conversations around VA reform to spotlighting events like Hockey Heals 22, our media presence underscored our mission. 

– Smart Budget Cuts at the VA Could Help Preserve Critical Services – The Hill
– 5th Annual Hockey 22 Event Raises Awareness for Veteran Suicide – FOX 13
– Veterans Play 22 Hours of Hockey for Suicide Awareness – NPR Affiliate 

From the Blog: Stories That Matter 

This month’s stories included a look at veteran-led disaster recovery efforts in the Palisades, a historical reflection on 250 years of military service, and a recap of a community hockey event that raises awareness for the veteran suicide crisis. 

– Where the Flag Still Flies: Veterans Rebuild the Palisades
– Hockey Heals 22
– 250 Years of the Military 

Speak Up: Participate in Our Open Polls 

Your voice shapes our work. We’re actively gathering feedback on topics like VA care, suicide prevention, and rural veteran access. These surveys help us bring real-time concerns to lawmakers and leaders who can make a difference. 

– Take Our Open Polls
– Participate in Our Veteran Suicide Survey 

Looking Ahead: Independence Through Support and Access 

In July, we’ll focus on veteran independence—honoring the strength and resilience of wounded veterans, caregivers, and those navigating life after service with courage and adaptability. We’ll explore how accessibility, autonomy, and practical support can help more veterans thrive on their own terms. 

Stay tuned for new stories, new research, and new opportunities to connect. 

 

 

If there is something we have learned about supporting our veterans, it is that mental health is one of the most complicated problems to tackle, especially for veterans in rural areas.  VA reports have found that veterans are most vulnerable in the first three months following separation from military service, although suicide risk “remains elevated for years after the transition.” With this information, we can better support our veterans and their families to get them the assistance they need.

While veterans can access mental health care through a variety of channels, knowing what is available to them and gaining access are common hurdles for not just rural veterans but all veterans. Listed below are resources available to veterans looking for mental healthcare.

The two main mental health resources are the VA and the Veteran Crisis Line. 

VA Mental Health Services

• VA mental health services are available to all veterans, regardless of their discharge status, and even if they don’t qualify for full VA benefits. 
• The VA offers various mental health services, including individual and group therapy, medication management, and support groups. 
• You can find a VA medical center or Vet Center near you through the VA.gov website. 

Veterans Crisis Line (988, then press 1)

• This is a crucial resource for veterans experiencing a crisis or needing immediate support. It’s accessible 24/7, offering confidential counseling through phone, text, and online chat. 
• If you or the veteran or service member in your life shows signs of crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line. In the United States, dial 988 then press 1 or text 838255.
• You can chat online with a VA responder from anywhere.
• If you are overseas, you can connect with the Veterans Crisis Line Chat. If you prefer a phone call, you can request this via chat. A crisis line responder will call the number you provide at no charge.

But if those are unavailable to you due to location or other reasons, here’s a list of other mental health resources you might not know about.

Boulder Crest Foundation

Boulder Crest is the home of Posttraumatic Growth (PTG). They offer life-changing programs free of charge to members of the military, veterans, and first responder communities, and their families.

America’s Warrior Partnership
America’s Warrior Partnership’s mission is to partner with communities to prevent veteran suicide. Their programs accomplish this by starting at the community level and understanding the unique situations of veterans and their families. 

Avalon Action Alliance

Avalon Action Alliance connects our nation’s veterans and first responders with life-changing programs. Their Alliance Partners offer a wide range of treatments, training and support tailored to the unique needs of our veterans and first responders. 

Shields & Stripes

Shields & Stripes provides a top-tier rehabilitation program for our military veterans and first responders.

Warrior Canine Connection

Warrior Canine Connection utilizes a Mission Based Trauma Recovery model to help Warriors recovering from the stress of combat reconnect with their families, communities, and life. By interacting with the dogs as they move from puppyhood to training to adult service dogs, Warrior Trainers benefit from a physiological and psychological animal-human connection. 

Wounded Warrior Project
Provides various mental health services, including individual and couples counseling, and PTSD and addiction treatment. 

Military OneSource
Offers resources for veterans, including mental health information and a directory of services. 

Mission Roll Call’s Veteran Resource Directory

Our comprehensive directory connects veterans and their families to organizations ready to help.

When it comes to the mental health of veterans and their families, we know there’s not one solution that fits all. But what we do know is that we need to be more proactive. Help exists for veterans and their families; they just need to know what is available to them. Share this article with a veteran – they might need it or know someone else who does.

Supporting a veteran’s mental health requires active listening, encouragement, and resourcefulness. It involves creating a safe space for them to share their feelings, finding local support groups or mental health professionals, and being patient and understanding. Small, everyday gestures like offering a helping hand with tasks, expressing empathy, and attending local veterans’ events can also make a significant difference.

Here are 7 everyday ways to support veterans’ mental health:

1. Be present and consistent. Let them know you care and are there for them, even if you don’t fully understand what they’re going through. Offer encouraging words and focus on their strengths and resilience. 

2. Encourage without pushing. Acknowledge that recovery takes time, and don’t pressure them to “get better” quickly. Be patient and understanding as they navigate their journey. Allow the veteran to decide when and how they want to share their feelings. Offer space for them to share if they wish, but don’t pressure them. 

3. Help navigate resources. Help them find resources like local support groups, mental health professionals, or the VA’s mental health services. Mission Roll Call and the Veterans Crisis Line can also provide valuable resources, information, and assistance. Knowing that there is a path to recovery with tailored resources is its own kind of reassurance.

4. Share space without judgment. Be a supportive listener, offering a non-judgmental space for the veteran to share their experiences and feelings. Give them your full attention and avoid offering unsolicited advice. 

5. Offer practical help. Support them with everyday tasks like grocery shopping, meal planning, or errands if they are struggling to manage their routine. 

6. Stay connected regularly. Staying connected with veterans in your life can provide a sense of purpose and community. If your veteran is hard to get a hold of, consider social media platforms or other online routes to keep the conversation going at their preferred speed. Also, small actions like attending veteran-specific events with them can go a long way to make them feel connected with you and other veterans.

7. Self-Care for you. Supporting someone with mental health challenges can be emotionally taxing. It’s important to prioritize your own well-being and seek support for yourself if needed. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and it is important for those who support our veterans to give them our best – to do this, you must take care of yourself.

By employing these strategies, both veterans and those who care about them can foster stronger connections and build supportive communities, ultimately leading to greater well-being and a sense of belonging. Supporting veterans is crucial. By providing support, we acknowledge their service, help them navigate the challenges they face, and ensure they can lead fulfilling lives. 

Looking for more mental health information and resources? Discover the support you need in Mission Roll Call’s Veteran Resource Directory. Our comprehensive directory connects veterans and their families to organizations ready to help.

If you or a veteran in your life needs support, consider requesting help from the AWP Network. The AWP Network is staffed by a dedicated team of case coordinators with social services backgrounds who are experts at holistically identifying problems and finding one-size-fits-one solutions. For immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line – dial 988 then press 1.

Despite their service, rural veterans often face unique barriers to accessing the care and support they need after leaving the military. The first step toward supporting rural veterans is educating ourselves on the challenges they face.   

Here are 6 Things You Might Not Know About Rural Veterans: 

1. Rural veterans lack access to necessary healthcare 

While there are 4.7 million veterans who live in rural areas, they each face their own unique barriers to accessing healthcare. Many rural veterans struggle to access necessary healthcare due to factors like geographic distance to VA facilities, transportation challenges, and limited internet access that hinders telehealth services. 

2. Rural veterans face  a higher risk of mental health challenges 

Rural veterans are less likely to receive the mental health care they need compared to urban veterans. While mental health is a significant concern for all veterans and their families, due to their living environment, rural veterans are at a higher risk of mental health challenges like post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. 

3. Rural veterans are more likely to face economic disparities 

Compared to their urban counterparts, rural veterans are more likely to have lower household incomes and experience higher rates of poverty, with more than half earning an annual income of less than $35,000. This can further compound their challenges in accessing essential resources like healthcare. 

4. Rural veterans are in a position to have their well-being impacted by social isolation 

The isolated nature of rural communities can lead to social isolation, impacting their mental health and overall well-being. Veterans die by suicide at 1.5 times the rate of their non‐veteran counterparts, with rural veterans at a 20%–22% greater risk of dying by suicide than urban veterans. Peer support and community engagement programs can help combat this, which leads us to our final point. 

5. Rural veterans rely heavily on resources 

The VA is a crucial resource to rural veterans, but they also rely heavily on community providers, veteran service organizations, and programs to meet their needs.  

Mission Roll Call has identified and vetted many nonprofit organizations that work with these communities. For example, the Alaska Warrior Partnership™ (AKWP) is committed to improving veterans’ quality of life in the state of Alaska through the coordination of local services and opportunities. And Boulder Crest Foundation provides a free, first-class rural wellness retreat dedicated to helping America’s military members, veterans, and their families. For more resources and support, visit Mission Roll Call’s comprehensive Veteran Resource Directory. 

6. Rural veterans are resilient, resourceful, and deeply connected to their communities 

This isn’t just a list of challenges—rural veterans bring incredible strengths that deserve recognition. They embody grit, self-reliance, and a strong sense of duty, often serving as the backbone of their communities long after their time in uniform. With deep family roots and a commitment to service, they step up as mentors, leaders, and quiet helpers in times of need. These qualities not only make them vital to the fabric of rural America, but they also make them powerful voices in shaping the future of the broader veteran community. 

Conclusion 

Rural veterans make up an essential part of the American veteran population—yet too often, their stories are overlooked, and their needs go unmet. From barriers to healthcare and mental health services to economic hardship and geographic isolation, the challenges are real. But so is their strength.

As individuals, we can show support to rural veterans by educating ourselves on their unique needs and challenging harmful stereotypes or stigmas. We can also point veterans and their families to useful benefits, service organizations, social groups, and other resources.

To join us in advocating for rural veterans and ensuring their voices are heard, visit www.missionrollcall.org. 

If you are a rural veteran, we want to hear from you through our open polls. Participating in our polls is crucial for Mission Roll Call’s advocacy efforts. Your input helps us understand the needs and concerns of the rural veteran community, guiding our actions and amplifying your voice in driving meaningful change. 

 

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress took a bold step by establishing the Continental Army—more than a year before the Declaration of Independence was signed. That decision marked the beginning of what would become the most formidable military force in the world. 

Two and a half centuries later, we honor the generations of Americans who have served, the battles they’ve endured, and the legacy they’ve built. The 250th anniversary of the United States military is more than a historical milestone. It’s a chance to reflect on the strength, resilience, and character of those who have worn the uniform, and the families who have stood beside them. 

A Legacy of Innovation and Resolve 

The U.S. military has always evolved to meet the challenges of its time. From the colonial militias of the 18th century to today’s high-tech operations across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace, service members have shaped the course of history through innovation and determination. 

Throughout those years, the military has given rise to technologies that changed civilian life as well. M&Ms were created during World War II to withstand combat conditions. Super Glue was discovered while searching for materials for clear plastic rifle sights. Even duct tape began as a military invention to seal ammunition boxes. These breakthroughs are just small examples of how military service has intersected with American ingenuity. 

To explore more key moments in military history, visit our interactive timeline. 

Honoring FiFi 

This year also marks the 80th birthday of FiFi, one of only two remaining airworthy B-29 Superfortress bombers. Built near the end of World War II, FiFi has become a living piece of aviation history. She regularly appears at airshows and commemorations around the country, offering Americans a rare opportunity to witness the power and precision of this historic aircraft. 

The B-29 program introduced innovations that transformed air combat, including pressurized cabins and remote-controlled turrets. Crews who flew these bombers faced long, dangerous missions over enemy territory, often without any guarantee of return. Pilots, gunners, engineers, and support staff worked in unison to carry out one of the most technically advanced missions of the war. 

Today, FiFi reminds us of the courage of that generation and the importance of preserving history for those who follow. 

The Heart Behind the Uniform 

Military service is a deeply personal calling. People join for different reasons: a sense of duty, a family tradition, the desire to protect others, or the opportunity to grow through challenge. What unites them is a commitment to something greater than themselves. 

That commitment is felt not only by the service members but also by the families who support them. Spouses keep households running during deployments. Children adapt to constant change. Parents wait for phone calls, letters, or homecomings. The military community is built on shared strength, quiet sacrifices, and enduring support. 

Even after the uniform comes off, the experience of service continues to shape lives. Veterans carry the pride of service and, in many cases, the physical and emotional weight of their experiences. As a nation, we have a responsibility to ensure they receive the care, respect, and recognition they deserve. 

The Cost—and the Promise—of Service 

For every story of innovation or victory, there are also stories of loss, trauma, and hardship. Military service demands more than physical strength. It calls for courage under pressure, moral conviction in complex environments, and the ability to persevere through adversity. 

At Mission Roll Call, we listen to veterans, amplify their voices, and advocate for solutions that reflect their real needs. Through real-time polling and outreach, we connect veterans and their families with decision-makers to influence positive change. 

We’ve explored some of the challenges they face in our series of “State of” articles, including the State of Veterans, State of Veterans Mental Health, and the State of Military Families. These reports offer an honest, data-driven look at where we are—and where we must go to better support those who served and their families. 

Looking Ahead 

As we mark this 250-year anniversary, we do so with deep gratitude and clear purpose. Gratitude for those who stepped forward to serve. Purpose in our ongoing mission to support them. 

The future of the U.S. military will be shaped by new challenges, emerging technologies, and the next generation of brave Americans. But the core values—duty, honor, service—remain the same. These values have carried us through war and peace, progress and pain, and they will continue to guide us in the years ahead. 

We invite you to join us in honoring this historic milestone. Visit our military timeline to learn more about key moments across 250 years of service. Talk to a veteran. Attend a local ceremony. Fly the flag with pride. 

Because no matter what changes, one thing will always be true: 

Freedom isn’t free. 

But it is worth it. 

Want to honor a service member in your life? Follow Mission Roll Call on social media, share your story, or support our mission to ensure veterans are heard—today and always. 

 

It’s no secret that rural areas are appealing for veterans to choose to reside in. The draw to rural areas is simple – it is typically quiet, has a lower cost of living, and plenty of open space for recreation. Most rural communities are tight-knit, creating a sense of belonging, but have the room to retain a certain level of privacy if desired. 

While rural living comes with many advantages, geographic isolation can make accessing healthcare and veteran-specific resources more difficult. If this affected only a handful of individuals, it might not warrant broader attention. But this is a significant veteran population that is too often overlooked. According to the Office of Rural Health, there are 2.7 million rural and highly rural veterans enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Many rural Veterans enrolled in VA’s health care system are at an advanced age, with 54% being age 65 or older.

What makes a veteran rural?  

To label a veteran as rural, the Department of Veterans Affairs uses the rural-urban commuting area (RUCA) codes system to define rurality. The RUCA codes system takes into account population density as well as how closely a community is linked socio-economically to larger urban centers. 

Empowering Rural Veterans, Building Thriving Communities 

Shedding a light on a large community of veterans who have limited access to resources and healthcare is something Operation Honor: Rural Salute (OHRS)  doesn’t just believe in – they act on it with every gathering, event, and podcast they host.

OHRS was born out of personal experience and a deep commitment to serving those who have served us. Founders Michelle and Chris Lang, after Chris’s eight years of active duty in the Army, faced the challenges of civilian life head-on when they returned to their home state of Pennsylvania in 2019. Amidst the struggles of transitioning and health issues, they discovered a frustrating truth: while many resources existed to help veterans, they were often difficult to find, especially for those in rural areas. 

Determined to change this, Michelle and Chris envisioned an organization that would not only connect veterans to the resources they needed but also build a community where they felt supported, valued, and empowered. 

Reaching and Connecting Rural Veterans 

OHRS provides rural veterans with an Interactive Map that helps connect them with other veterans close to their proximity to assist in building a sense of community. OHRS also hosts events to bring veterans together, with a focus on rural communities. Their most recent event was a two-day celebration filled with excitement, entertainment, and most importantly, support for the heroes who’ve served our country. 

Check out their full list of resources: www.ohruralsalute.org/resources

Get Involved 

Support should not depend on where someone resides. Nearly 25% of veterans live in rural America, and those veterans deserve access to basic healthcare and resources as much as the other 75%. While connection and raising awareness are key, donations and volunteering are just as helpful in making this group of veterans and their families feel supported.

This June, as we shine a light on rural veterans, we proudly stand with organizations like Operation Honor’s Rural Salute (OHRS), which provide vital support to these often-overlooked heroes every day. Amplifying the voices of rural veterans remains central to Mission Roll Call’s purpose, and partnerships with organizations like OHRS help bring that mission to life.

Learn more about OHRS and how you can support their work at www.ohruralsalute.org. To join us in advocating for rural veterans and ensuring their voices are heard, visit www.missionrollcall.org. 

 

 

This June 21-22, Mission Roll Call is proud to join forces with the Lightning Warriors Hockey Program and the Malone Family Foundation for Hockey Heals 22, an inspiring event where 22 hours of continuous hockey are dedicated to one powerful mission: ending veteran suicide. 

Veteran suicide is a national crisis. For years, the number “22” has served as a symbol, representing the estimated 22 veterans lost to suicide each day. While different studies and data sources have offered varied figures over time, the truth remains painfully clear: we are losing far too many heroes to invisible wounds. 

Behind every number is a name, a family, and a story. And events like Hockey Heals 22 remind us that awareness alone isn’t enough—we need action, connection, and purpose to drive real change. 

The Lightning Warriors 

Founded in 2017 and formally incorporated in 2020, the Lightning Warriors Hockey Program is a Tampa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving the disabled veteran community through hockey. Their mission is to create a therapeutic and educational environment—both recreational and competitive—that fosters healing, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Hockey Heals 22 is an extension of that mission. It brings together athletes, veterans, and supporters to raise awareness, build community, and honor those we’ve lost by fighting for those still here. 

MRC’s Role 

As a national, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Mission Roll Call gives a voice to veterans and their families through real-time polling, storytelling, and advocacy. Our mission is simple: to ensure every veteran is seen, heard, and supported. 

In 2025, we’re focused on four critical priorities: 

• Suicide prevention 

• Homelessness 

• Access to healthcare 

• Food and financial insecurity 

These challenges are deeply interconnected. That’s why we listen directly to veterans, share their experiences, and advocate for smart, effective policies—like the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, which expands mental health care access and support for underserved communities. 

Events like Hockey Heals 22 help bring our work to life, uniting national advocacy with local action and community care. 

MRC is proud to share this space with the Malone Family Foundation, a fellow co-beneficiary whose mission centers on mental wellness and recovery for veterans, first responders, and their families. Their work—especially through sport-based wellness programs—echoes the values at the heart of this event. 

If you’re in the Tampa area, we invite you to join us in person for Hockey Heals 22, as we stand alongside the Lightning Warriors, the Malone Family Foundation, and all those who are committed to saving lives and building a stronger future for our nation’s veterans and their families. If you can’t make it, follow along on MRC’s social channels for photos, stories, and updates from the event.  

Together, we can help ensure that every veteran knows: you are not alone, and your life matters.