02/13/2024
Countering the Negative Stereotypes of Veterans
The media, Hollywood and the public have a tendency to view the world through their own goggles with generalizations and stereotypes of different groups to include our Veteran Community. We who are a part of it, see from our point of view and experience these limited views.
Many view the American Veteran as an old man with a Veteran ball cap. Others see the commercials with our disabled Veteran brothers shown. Of course, there are the images of Veterans with the sign “Homeless Veteran”. Movies presenting Veterans with anger and PTSD issues are a common way people get their impression of our community.
All groups have both positive and negative stereotypes and it is that way for our Veterans. Indeed, we have among us those who are struggling with poverty, mental health, physical health, education barriers, legal problems, etc. These Veterans have special significance to our Veteran community, and we are striving to help them.
We also have among our population, Veterans who are among us but go unnoticed because they are not the stereotype.
Some of the Veteran positive attributes are:
The ability to learn new skills and concepts. While in the military, servicemembers underwent rigorous training programs and became experts in a wide-range of skills and concepts that can be easily be transferred to the civilian work environment. These skills can be applied in real-world situations which make the Veteran, an ideal candidate, to enhance an organization’s productivity.
Strong leadership qualities. The military trained servicemembers to lead by example, to provide direction and delegation and strive to keep motivation and inspiration in others. They were well taught in academic theory of leadership and understand and have used practical ways to manage behaviors for results.
Flexibility to work strongly in teams or work independently. Military training taught servicemembers to work as a team by instilling a sense of a responsibility to one’s colleagues. Because of the size and scope of military operations, servicemembers understand how groups of all sizes relate to each other and support the final objective. While teamwork is important in military duties, being able to work independently is important as well.
Diversity and strong interpersonal skills. The military was one of the first to integrate people. Servicemembers have learned to work side by side with others regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, economic status, and geographic origins as well as mental, physical and attitudinal capabilities. The concept of uniformity is not just in reference to the uniform but also in daily life. Many Service Members have also been deployed or stationed in numerous foreign countries that give them a greater appreciation for the diverse nature of our globalized economy.
Ability to work efficiently and diligently in a fast-paced environment. Servicemembers have developed the capacity and time-management skills needed to know how to accomplish tasks correctly and on time, in spite of limited resources and immense pressure.
Respect for procedures and accountability. Service Members know how policies and procedures enable an organization to be successful and they easily understand their place within an organizational framework. Service Members understand the responsibility that comes with being responsible for the actions of subordinates and they understand how to properly elevate issues through the proper supervisory channels.
Hands on experience with technology and globalization. Today’s military uses cutting-edge technology. From communications technology to the security of computer networks and hardware, service members must stay aware of emerging technologies in the public and private sector.
Strong personal integrity. Military training demands that individuals not only abide by a strong Code of Ethics, but that they live it each and every day. Military personnel are often trusted with security clearances that give them access to highly sensitive information. An employee with a proven track record of trustworthiness is often an asset to an organization.
Strong sense of health, safety and property standards. Service members are aware of health and safety protocols both for themselves and the welfare of others. Individually, they represent a drug-free workforce that is cognizant of maintaining personal health and fitness. On a company level, their attentiveness and care translate into respect for employees, property, and materials.
Triumph over adversity. In addition to dealing positively with the typical issues of personal maturity, service members have frequently triumphed over great adversity. Servicemembers have proven their mettle in mission critical situations demanding endurance, stamina, and flexibility. In the case of wounded warriors, they have overcome severe disabilities, acquired injuries (including invisible injuries) through strength, determination, and personal conviction.
While there are negative stereotypes for Veterans, it is important to remember the positive as well. Alachua County has a population of over 20K Veterans, many of whom hold careers, leadership roles, and service jobs in our county and are among the community but yet not always known.
