This Veterans Day marks the fifth anniversary of my leaving military service. The holiday continues to offer an opportunity to reflect on how to view and understand my service, which has brought both challenge and fulfillment.

One of the more insidious thoughts that I’ve recognized is the underservice narrative. Did I do enough? Speaking with others, I’ve realized this irrational guilt affects many veterans. My lack of combat experience creeps up to tell me that I’ve given too little. But the underservice narrative comes in many forms, from feeling like your time was too short, to missing a war, not deploying or serving in a non-combat position.

These feelings serve no helpful purpose for the individual or the veteran community. They only harm and divide. Every person who raised their ha

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