Veteran Voices
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Phil's Story: Phil discovered AboutFace-USA through his church, the Knights of Columbus, who generously donated the sign outside our center in 2024. Since then, he’s become a familiar face, connecting with our staff and fellow veterans.
Phil shared that after leaving the Marines, despite enduring lasting physical damage, there was little discussion about PTSD or trauma. “When I was in the Marines, none of the armed forces provided hearing protection, it just wasn't provided," he explained. “I was exposed to so much naval gunfire and artillery and other weapons that I have a severe hearing loss.”
Years later while seeking help for his disability, he was required to meet with a psychologist in order to receive assistance. After the meeting, they suggested he talk to someone about his experience in the military, something he wouldn’t do until he connected with AboutFace-USA later in life.
“I didn't realize how much these unpleasant experiences had affected my life,” Phil said. “It’s easy to say, ‘Well I can handle this, ‘I’m a tough guy or I'm a tough gal and I can fight through this.’ But we have resources here at AboutFace that will make you a better person, a stronger person, and help you make the adjustment."
We’re proud to walk alongside Phil and all the veterans who remind us that healing begins with connection!
If you’re a veteran who’s struggling or if you know someone who is, we invite you to stop by our center. Sometimes all it takes is a conversation and we’re here to help.
Years later while seeking help for his disability, he was required to meet with a psychologist in order to receive assistance. After the meeting, they suggested he talk to someone about his experience in the military, something he wouldn’t do until he connected with AboutFace-USA later in life.
“I didn't realize how much these unpleasant experiences had affected my life,” Phil said. “It’s easy to say, ‘Well I can handle this, ‘I’m a tough guy or I'm a tough gal and I can fight through this.’ But we have resources here at AboutFace that will make you a better person, a stronger person, and help you make the adjustment."
We’re proud to walk alongside Phil and all the veterans who remind us that healing begins with connection!
If you’re a veteran who’s struggling or if you know someone who is, we invite you to stop by our center. Sometimes all it takes is a conversation and we’re here to help.