She Wanted to Make the Navy Her Career — Instead, She Was Left Behind”
- Kirk Carlson
- 13 minutes ago
- 2 min read
She Wanted to Make the Navy Her Career — Instead, She Was Left Behind”
By Kirk Carlson, USMC Veteran | Founder, Covenant of Courage
This is the story of someone else’s sister—a fellow veteran’s family member who, like so many others, set out to serve her country with honor and make the Navy her lifetime career.
She served for four and a half years, working aboard a ship, determined to build a future in uniform. But then she started fainting. After undergoing medical testing and scans, doctors found a “bruise” on her brain. The Navy medically discharged her.
That discharge changed everything.
She now lives with a mental health diagnosis and was awarded just 10% disability for the head trauma. But the diagnosis didn’t translate into meaningful support. Her disability compensation is so low it can’t even cover a month’s worth of groceries, and to make matters worse, she has to pay out of pocket for her medications. When she can’t afford the full cost, the VA takes payment from her already small monthly check.
Her family is doing all they can to support her financially. They’ve even tried to get her re-evaluated and re-diagnosed to ensure she gets proper care—but have had no success so far.
She served her country with pride. Now, she’s been left behind.
This Is Why We Fight for #ReasonableRanks
Her story is one of many. Veterans who are still capable and willing to serve—especially in non-combat or support roles—are being discharged without career continuation options, adequate benefits, or access to reassignments.
That’s what #ReasonableRanks is all about.
We’re advocating for:
Reassignment to non-combat roles for injured but capable veterans
Career continuation waivers to protect those who still want to serve
Disability support that accounts for both physical and mental health injuries
We’re calling on the Department of Defense and Congress to provide real solutions for veterans who need flexibility—not abandonment.
Sign the petition. Share the stories. Help us fix this system.
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