Still Willing to Serve”: Why #ReasonableRanks Matters for Veterans Like This

Still Willing to Serve”: Why #ReasonableRanks Matters for Veterans Like This

At Covenant of Courage, we believe that service doesn’t end with an injury—and patriotism doesn’t expire when a veteran can no longer run a mile.

The image above features a Navy veteran whose story speaks for thousands across the country. He enlisted at 34, completed boot camp at 35, and by 43 had undergone a partial knee replacement. Despite his medical condition, he remains ready, able, and eager to serve in the role he excelled in—Personnel Specialist.

But under current policy, he can’t.

Why? Not because of a lack of skill, experience, or dedication. But because the system offers no flexible path for reassignment or continuation once a service member can no longer meet outdated physical standards—standards that don’t apply to administrative, technical, or support roles.

This is the injustice the #ReasonableRanks campaign is fighting to change.

We’re advocating for:

• Career continuation pathways for injured veterans in non-combat roles

• Retirement protection for those forced to separate due to injury

• Systemic reform to ensure those willing to serve differently still have the opportunity

This veteran’s story is not an exception—it’s a warning. A reminder that countless trained, loyal, and capable individuals are pushed out of service prematurely.

As he says:

“The military needs seasoned veterans like me to fill those crucial support roles while others take on the physical demands of frontline duty.”

We agree. Veterans like him bring wisdom, leadership, and commitment that cannot be taught in boot camp.

Join the Fight for Fairness

Be part of the movement to honor our injured veterans by giving them a second chance to serve.

Sign the Petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR

#ReasonableRanks | #VeteranJustice | #DisabilityRightsAreHumanRights