America’s story intertwined with its military history, but a military-civilian disconnect persists

The intertwined story of America and its military is evident throughout history, from 1776 to the present day. This relationship runs through the fabric of everyday American life, as evidenced by the ubiquitous phrase "Thank you for your service," a common expression of appreciation for veterans and those in uniform. However, this connection has become strained in various ways.

Most American adults do not serve, nor are they closely connected to the military personnel and their families. Those who do serve often hail from generations of the same families or communities, predominantly from certain states. This concentration can lead to a disproportionate burden of military life on these groups. Additionally, the public pays little attention to military matters unless there is a crisis, such as concerns over mental health issues among USS Abraham Lincoln sailors.

The military-civilian divide, characterized by a lack of understanding and connection, has real-world consequences on public policy, logistical issues, and the perceptions each side holds about the other. In the United States, military leaders are striving to overcome this divide by shifting recruitment towards a broader pool of young Americans, rather than relying on concentrated recruitment from specific families and communities.

This concentration of military families has resulted in an unequal distribution of military risks, with a small group of American families experiencing the direct consequences of war. This lack of awareness on the part of the public can contribute to stereotypes and assumptions about military members and veterans, as well as their roles and needs when transitioning to civilian life.

The phrase "Thank you for your service," while well-intentioned, can make some veterans feel like statues, disconnected from the real humanity of their experiences.