Veterans Deserve Better – Why 161 Signatures Matter
- Kirk Carlson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
By Kirk Carlson | USMC Veteran | Founder, Covenant of Courage
At first glance, 161 signatures may seem like just a number—but to us, it’s a symbol of something far more powerful: a growing movement of people who believe injured service members deserve better. Each signature on the #ReasonableRanks petition represents a voice demanding fairness, accountability, and compassion for those who were medically discharged during training.
These are not isolated cases. Every year, thousands of service members are sent home due to injuries sustained before they ever deploy. They’re told they are “non-deployable,” stripped of their military careers, and quietly discharged with minimal recognition, limited benefits, and no opportunity for reassignment. These men and women took the same oath, trained just as hard, and were willing to serve—yet were denied the chance to continue their mission because they got hurt.
So why do 161 signatures matter?
Because they challenge that system.
Each name on our petition is a refusal to accept the status quo. It is a declaration that injured service members should be reassigned—not released. It is a call to restore dignity and provide the benefits these veterans have earned.
🔥 This Is Why We Fight
For those told they couldn’t reenlist because they couldn’t run a PFT—despite thriving in an administrative role.
For those who became dispatchers, clerks, or technicians on light duty and asked, “Why can’t I stay and serve here?”
For those who still carry physical scars—and emotional wounds—from being medically discharged without support.
We launched #ReasonableRanks to shine a light on these injustices and advocate for real change, including:
✅ Career reassignment options for injured service members
✅ Access to full benefits, including VA healthcare and the GI Bill
✅ Recognition and honor for training-related injuries
✅ Legislative and policy reforms at the DoD and VA level
👥 161 Signatures = 161 Allies
That number represents more than support—it represents momentum. Local communities, veterans, families, and advocates are coming together to say: “Enough.”
This week, the City of Corona is considering a resolution to endorse the campaign. National media outlets are taking interest. And our Signature Sprint is pushing us toward the next major goal: 200 voices strong.
💬 What Can You Do?
Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR
Share your story: Email us at support@reasonableranks.org
Spread the word: Share the campaign on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
Talk to your city council or local leaders: Ask them to support #ReasonableRanks
Because Every Veteran Counts
We’re not just collecting signatures—we’re building a national coalition. We’re fighting to make sure that when someone gets hurt in training, they’re not discarded. They’re supported. They’re honored. They’re given another chance to serve.
161 is just the beginning.
Let’s keep going—together.
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