Veterans Deserve Legal Support — and Systemic Reform

By Kirk Carlson | USMC Veteran | Founder, Covenant of Courage

Every day, veterans are told to “get over it,” “be grateful,” or “accept what they were given.” But the truth is: many of us were wrongfully discharged, under-compensated, or left behind entirely — not because we failed to serve, but because we got injured in the process.

A recent comment reminded us: “Veterans who were medically injured during service need an attorney who understands VA claims — not a pretty face on a billboard.” And they’re absolutely right.

Yes — You Deserve Representation

Too many veterans hesitate to seek help out of pride, shame, or frustration. But the law is on your side — and so are the professionals. Accredited VA attorneys cost nothing unless you win, and their fees are capped by Congress. These attorneys can help you:

• File for increased VA compensation

• Challenge wrongful discharges

• Appeal denied claims

• Reopen cases with new evidence

If you served, and you were hurt, you earned this support. Getting help is not weakness. It’s justice.

But Legal Help Alone Isn’t Enough

At Covenant of Courage, we support every veteran pursuing what they’ve earned. But we also believe we need to go one step further. We must fix the system that failed them in the first place.

That’s where the #ReasonableRanks campaign comes in.

Changing the System, Not Just the Outcomes

#ReasonableRanks is fighting for a future where injured, non-deployable service members are offered reassignment—not discharge. Just like federal civilians, who get reassigned after injury, we believe service members deserve the chance to continue contributing in roles like:

• Training commands

• Cyber defense units

• Recruiting and administrative support

• Base operations and logistics

This isn’t about lowering standards. It’s about honoring service, preserving talent, and reducing the burden on veterans after they leave the uniform behind.

Both Tracks Matter

Individual justice through legal representation is critical.

But systemic change through advocacy, policy, and public awareness ensures fewer veterans fall through the cracks in the first place.

So yes — make that call. Talk to a VA-accredited attorney.

But also, join us in the movement to change the policies that created these injustices.

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

🌐 Learn More: www.ReasonableRanks.org

📣 Join the Conversation: #ReasonableRanks #VeteransDeserveBetter #HonorAllService #PolicyAndJustice