Last week, Mission Roll Call took to Washington, D.C., to amplify the voices of veterans and their families and advocate for meaningful policy changes. Our team, including CEO Jim Whaley, joined forces with the Call of Duty Endowment (CODE) President Dan Goldenberg and the Marcus Foundation to present the findings of a joint study conducted by Ipsos. This research shed light on the widespread misperceptions about veterans, emphasizing how these inaccuracies negatively impact recruitment, employment, and overall support for those who have served.

Challenging Misperceptions About Veterans

The joint study revealed alarming statistics about the public’s view of veterans:

• More than 80% of Americans believe veterans suffer from severe mental health issues.
• Over 70% think veterans are unemployable and financially unstable.
• More than half believe veterans do not contribute to their communities.
• Two-thirds of Americans think veterans are poorly supported by the federal government.

These misconceptions create significant barriers for veterans transitioning to civilian life and contribute to the ongoing military recruitment crisis. To combat this, Mission Roll Call and CODE are advocating for policy reforms and increased public awareness to reshape how veterans are perceived and supported in America.

Policy Recommendations for Lasting Change

During our meetings with congressional leaders, we outlined four key recommendations to enhance veteran support and change public perception:

• Create a Veteran Wellbeing Accountability Dashboard – A public system that tracks government spending and effectiveness in six key veteran wellbeing areas: employment, mental health, brain health, physical health, housing, and education.
• Redirect Funding to Proven Nonprofits – Shifting government funds toward organizations that have demonstrated measurable success in improving veteran outcomes, ensuring more efficient use of resources.
• Launch a National Veteran Awareness Campaign – A long-term, multi-platform campaign highlighting veterans’ positive contributions and achievements to correct harmful stereotypes.
• Educate High School Staff on Military Careers – Partnering with the Department of Defense and veteran organizations to provide accurate information about military service and post-service opportunities to key influencers like teachers and counselors.

The study reinforced that veterans are among the most engaged and productive members of society. They vote at higher rates, volunteer in their communities, and excel in the workforce. Changing the narrative around veterans isn’t just about recognition—it’s essential to ensuring the future strength of our all-volunteer military force.

The Road Ahead

At Mission Roll Call, we don’t just advocate—we take action. Through our polling and direct engagement with veterans and their families across the country, we bring their unfiltered perspectives straight to policymakers. Testifying in Washington, D.C. was a step forward in ensuring that veterans and their loved ones receive the respect, resources, and opportunities they deserve.

But we can’t do it alone. Real change requires a collective effort. If you believe in this mission, join us at Mission Roll Call. We can challenge harmful stereotypes, push for impactful policy changes, and create a better future for veterans and their families. Your voice matters.