The Morning Muster A Column For and By Veterans

The Post 9/11 Generation

When reflecting on military history, there are often defining moments that shape entire generations of service members. For World War II veterans, it was Pearl Harbor. For Vietnam veterans, it was the volatile draft era of the 1960s. For today’s young veterans, that defining moment occurred twenty five years ago on September 11th, 2001. Whether you were already in uniform, a student watching the news in a Rockland County classroom, or a young adult preparing to enlist after watching the Twin Towers fall. 9/11 completely altered the modern blueprint of military service. This event spawned the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) generation.

A Unique Operational Blueprint

The Post 9/11 operational landscape set forth an unprecedented demand on those who served. Unlike previous conflicts, there was no defined and continuous frontline. GWOT combat was non linear and high tempo. Service members were tasked with navigating urban environments, conducting night raids, and countering constant threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout the Middle East and other remote outposts across the globe.

Not only this, but operations relied heavily on continuous multi-deployment cycles that were extremely straining on not only active duty forces, but also Reserve, and National Guard units. It was not uncommon for a service member to cycle between high stress combat environments and civilian life in a seemingly continuous loop. This unique battle rhythm created incredible levels of adaptability, self reliance, and camaraderie between branches.

Frontlines to Rockland Leadership

Today, the Post-9/11 generation are completing their time in uniform and are bringing their leadership, discipline, and problem solving back home to Rockland County. Throughout our local towns, GWOT veterans have actively stepped into prominent civilian roles. We see many who transitioned into dual service positions, such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, or healthcare professionals. Others work as teachers, local government officials, or in the private sector. Additionally, as past generations begin passing the torch, Post 9/11 veterans are stepping up as leaders in local American Legion posts and VFW halls. Luckily for our community, the sense of duty did not end when they hung up their uniforms, it shifted back to our home front.

Advocacy and Mental Health

The Post 9/11 generation has been instrumental in improving how our county cares for its veterans. Through persistent advocacy, these veterans have broken long standing stigmas surrounding mental health, invisible wounds, and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). Additionally, their efforts steered historic policy milestones, including the PACT Act, which expanded VA healthcare and disability benefits for veterans that were exposed to airborne hazards, open burn puts, and toxic environmental conditions throughout the Middle East. If you served during this era and are dealing with respiratory and overall health issues, it is vital to take advantage of these earned benefits

Continuing the Mission

As we reflect on 9/11 and the quarter of a century of military action that followed, we must continue to honor the sacrifices of our fellow service members by staying connected.  As we stress often in this column, it is very tempting for veterans to self isolate or feel more and more disconnected from everyday civilian life. Please understand that your presence and participation is vital to our community. If you are interested in vet-to-vet events, coffee hours, and weekly walks for veterans, as well as updates on events and programs around Rockland County, check out the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program at the BRIDGES office in the Palisades Mall. Please contact Nicholas Ambrogio via text or call at 845-879-2408 to get more information. Additionally, if you need assistance with PACT Act claims, disability benefits, or VA enrollment speak to the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency (VSA) in New City. Call or text 845-638-5244 to schedule an appointment.