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Contributed commentary by Monica Meeks, U.S. Army veteran:.
In 2018, significant concerns arose regarding the former TBI director’s oversight of veteran hiring preferences, as mandated by the state. This situation underscores a broader problem of inadequate enforcement of veteran preference hiring in certain state agencies. Adding to this, the recent silence around the DCS commissioner’s controversial remarks further exemplifies this issue.
Contrasting with such neglect, my tenure at the TBI was notably positive. As a uniformed officer, I frequently encountered dismissive attitudes from colleagues. Yet, Commissioner (Margie) Quin’s active support and encouragement, especially during challenging times at the Police Academy and in the “fishbowl” area, were crucial in helping me successfully navigate weapons qualification challenges.
Addressing the pervasive misconception that veterans don’t deserve adequate support and compensation is critical. Some colleagues, even those with military backgrounds, have minimized my service and the difficulties of navigating the VA’s backlog. These encounters perpetuate a harmful narrative that undermines veterans’ rightful benefits. Only after leaving the TBI did I feel able to seek compensation for service-related injuries. As one of the 1 in 4 female veterans who have endured military sexual trauma, I am committed to dispelling the stigma around PTSD and other disabilities. My candid identification as a veteran with PTSD and disabilities contrasts sharply with my 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, including multiple overseas deployments, compared to my two years at the TBI.
The narrative surrounding veterans requires significant revision. Less than 1% of Americans serve in the military, yet their contributions are often marginalized. In Montgomery County alone, home to over 7,000 women veterans, their efforts led to Gov. (Bill) Lee’s enactment of the Women’s Veterans Day legislation in May 2021. Despite this, media coverage often defaults to dated portrayals of male soldiers, overlooking the rich diversity and experiences of our female veterans. Moreover, less than half of female veterans access VA services frequently encountering obstacles in filing for compensation.
The commissioner’s remarks are symptomatic of a wider lack of understanding and empathy for the unique challenges faced by veterans. While expressions of gratitude for our service are valued, I advocate for more thoughtful engagement and a deeper understanding before commenting on topics that may be outside one’s direct experience. Through advocacy and addressing these issues, we strive to ensure all veterans receive the recognition, understanding and support they truly deserve.
Monica Meeks