Military Culture

Embracing the "Qualified & Fit" framework is key for reaching success through selfless service, says Chaplain Shelly Rood, coordinator of the 2024 Michigan QandF Detroit Conference. On Saturday, April 27, 2024, Others Over Self® hosted its third annual self resilience...

"The word "happy" doesn't exactly fit when describing women veterans," says Chaplain Brian Webb, "yet being a woman with military experience is unique. It's an attribute that should be celebrated." The Woman Veteran Strong program encourages being uniquely happy, which experts say is a challenging state of mind for military women. The professional overseeing this program, says that peer support is key.

Nicole performed air assaults during her second deployment and says the experience allowed her to distinguish herself as a reliable and competent soldier and pilot. "I had a couple of engagements with the enemy because of the nature of our unit's presence." Nicole supported the movement of Special Forces / Rangers / British/German SAS Troops to a high value target's location, in order to capture people.

In 2012, Kirsten deployed to Afghanistan and credits this experience as the number one, most challenging, influential, and rewarding time frame of her professional career.

While serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Zaneta was injured when she fell 11 feet from an M35 series 2 1/2-ton cargo truck with the rails up. Once told that she may never walk again, Zaneta continues to inspire others daily through her personal and professional roles.

During time served at her first duty station, Brittney served two tours overseas, married her wonderful husband (and fellow service member), and was blessed with a beautiful baby girl.

In 2007, Crystal was serving on military duty overseas when she received a Red Cross message that her mother had hung herself.  When she returned overseas from emergency leave, she discovered that her tour of duty had been extended.  Worse yet, for the next seven months, she faced repeated situations of sexual assault by a person who held a leadership position in her own unit.