Men and women who wore our nation’s uniform continue to answer the call of duty after returning home. They make a difference in their communities across the country, and their stories deserve to be told.
That’s why we are partnering with the Veterans of Foreign Wars to bring you the stories of female veterans who are #stillserving.
The VFW launched their #StillServing campaign in early 2020 to honor how veterans use the skills and leadership lessons they learned in the military to make our world a better place. Today’s VFW is made up of veterans of every generation who know service doesn’t end when you leave the military. They have each other’s backs and give people hope.
Annette Whittenberger
When you speak to Annette, she is warm and kind. Her beautiful smile lights up the screen. But she is also the first person to admit that not every day is a good day.
Her journey in entreprenuership and podcasting began with her own depression and mental health struggles after leaving the Army. After a medical discharge from service, Annette found herself lost and unsure of who she was or what she would do in life. She was a retired combat veteran who felt isolated and disconnected.
She began writing a blog about her mental health struggles and publishing it anonymously. She found that it helped her process her emotions and pain, and she wanted to help other veterans in the same position. Her blog grew into speaking and mentorship opportunities as she leaned into her mental illness and encouraged other veterans to follow suit. She is the host of The Truths We Hide podcast and is releasing her first book later this year.
She created A Wild Ride Called Life to encourage and support other veterans to embrace their mental illness, to reach out for support, and to find help and connection within the community.
Hear Annette’s full story in the video below!
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Every day, men and women who have bravely defended our freedom continue to serve in ways outside of the military. America’s veterans and service members are actively involved in their communities.
If you — or a veteran you know — has stepped up to help others and your community, please take a moment to let us know!
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