Let Injured Veterans Serve with Honor: The Mission Behind the #ReasonableRanks Campaign

Let Injured Veterans Serve with Honor: The Mission Behind the #ReasonableRanks Campaign

Every veteran takes an oath to serve, knowing the risks involved. But what happens when that service leads to injury—and the system fails to honor their continued ability to contribute? Across the country, injured veterans are being medically discharged, not because they can no longer serve, but because the military has no path forward for those who can still serve in non-combat or light-duty roles.

The #ReasonableRanks Campaign, launched by USMC veteran and Norco College student Kirk Carlson, is working to change that.

⸻

A Personal Battle, a National Problem

After an injury during his time in the Marine Corps, Kirk was reassigned to dispatcher duty—a non-combat, critical support role he performed successfully. But instead of being allowed to continue his career or retire honorably, he was discharged, losing access to full VA benefits, job pathways, and the future he had earned.

Thousands of other veterans face the same systemic injustice every year.

⸻

The Goals of #ReasonableRanks

The campaign isn’t just about one story. It’s about reforming a system that has failed to adapt to its own wounded warriors. The campaign calls for:

• Career Continuation Waivers for injured veterans able to serve in alternate roles

• Case-by-Case Reassignment Reviews before separation

• Protection of Retirement and Benefits for those wrongfully discharged

• Fair access to non-combat transitions, including admin, training, and communications roles

⸻

Student-Led, Veteran-Backed

At Norco College, the campaign has already gained traction with support from the Veterans Resource Center and student leadership. Kirk has set up the petition in designated free speech zones, engaged fellow students, and reached out to state and national advocacy organizations.

The campaign has reached over 50 signatures, with a new goal of 100+ before summer—with the ultimate aim of presenting veteran testimonies to Congress and the Department of Defense.

⸻

How You Can Help

This is your moment to stand with veterans who still want to serve.

• Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR

• Share the campaign on social media using #ReasonableRanks

• Tell your story if you or someone you know was discharged while still able to serve

Let’s give every injured veteran the right to finish their mission—with dignity, purpose, and honor.