Thank You, City of Corona: A Milestone for Military Discharge Reform
- Kirk Carlson
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
By Kirk Carlson | USMC Veteran | Founder, Covenant of Courage
On June 10, 2025, the City of Corona made history by formally endorsing the #ReasonableRanks campaign—a national movement calling for reform to military discharge policies that leave too many injured service members without options or honor. With a signed Letter of Support from Mayor Jim Steiner and the City Council, Corona became one of the first municipalities in the nation to publicly back our fight for dignity, fairness, and opportunity for non-deployable service members.
This endorsement is more than symbolic—it’s a bold statement that communities care about those who serve. It’s a recognition that injured does not mean incapable, and that our nation has a duty to support those who stepped forward to serve, even when their path changes due to injury or illness.
Why It Matters
Every year, thousands of men and women are discharged from the military not for misconduct, but because they became medically non-deployable. Often, these individuals were injured during training or in non-combat roles but are still proud warriors who want to contribute. Unfortunately, current policy offers little in the way of reassignment or retention. Instead, these troops are often quietly pushed out—stripped of their purpose, and sometimes denied full recognition and support.
The City of Corona’s endorsement challenges that narrative. It says to the nation: “We see you. We value your service. And we believe you still have more to give.”
A Message from the City
In their statement of support, the City of Corona wrote:
“We believe military policy should reflect the truth that service comes in many forms. The #ReasonableRanks campaign isn’t just about policy reform — it’s about restoring dignity.”
These words underscore a powerful truth: honoring service doesn’t end with deployment. It includes caring for those injured while preparing to serve, those sidelined by illness, and those who remain ready in spirit even when the body falters.
What’s Next
This endorsement is a major milestone in our campaign—but it’s just the beginning. With each show of public support, we build momentum toward a system that gives injured troops a second chance. We continue to call on local governments, veteran organizations, colleges, and the public to join the movement.
We’re urging Congress and the Department of Defense to create a career reassignment pathway for non-deployable service members—one that offers alternative roles in training, administration, recruiting, cyber defense, and more.
Join the Movement
The #ReasonableRanks campaign is about justice, reform, and respect. It’s about building a future where no service member is left behind simply because they were injured before deployment.
🖊️ Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR
🌐 Learn more: www.ReasonableRanks.org
We are proud to have the City of Corona by our side—and we look forward to many more cities, officials, and veterans stepping up to say: It’s time for change.
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