This I Believe—Stories from the Military Family

For many people in the military community, there is perhaps no time that belief is more emphatically tested and acted upon than in war. There is tremendous pride that comes with serving our country or having a family member serve in the military. At the same time, there can be heartache, loneliness, and a constant fear for the safety of that son or daughter, sister or brother, father or mother who is stationed far from home.

To bring attention to the unique strength and convictions of America’s military community, This I Believe is honoring our nation’s servicemen and women, veterans, and military families by sharing the stories of their core values and deepest beliefs. If you are a service member, veteran, or a military family member, we want to hear from you. Please submit your essay here.

Click the links below to explore the beliefs of our country’s military community.

November 4, 2022

We Will See the Job Through

Iraq War veteran Michael J. Whitehead shares some of the lessons he learned on the battlefield in Iraq, about the strength of the Iraqi people, and the importance of leaving the country in better shape than he found it.
November 11, 2019

We Also Served

Jim Snitker knew in high school that he wanted to serve his country by joining the military. And, while he served for 20 years in the U.S. Army, he never saw active combat. But Mr. Snitker believes that he and other Cold War veterans who trained and waited also served their country.
August 26, 2018

The Virtues of the Quiet Hero

As a Naval aviator, Congressman, and parent, John McCain was guided by a belief in honor, faith, and service. They are values he tried to model for his children and future generations of Americans. He died on August 25, 2018.
September 18, 2017

The Connection Between Strangers

Returning home from a tour of duty in the Vietnam War, Miles Goodwin was touched by the compassion of a 10-year-old girl. Now an attorney in Milwaukee, Goodwin believes in giving kindness to strangers.
January 29, 2014

A Life in Pictures Scattered across the Sand

I believe that we’re all the same – people are people, men are men – no matter where they come from, what language they speak, what their religion is, or what the may look like. Here’s how I was awakened...
November 24, 2013

Military Spouses Are the Unsung Heroe

The duration of my absence from home gains significance as it increases. Whether a weekend drill, month-long training, or yearlong deployment, each service member in good standing answers the call of duty. Those that are married leave a void in...
September 24, 2013

I Believe In Those Who Fight

I have always had a fascination with the military. Growing up, I would blow every dollar that I earned at Uncle Sam's Military Surplus Store. From gas masks to MREs, I was enthralled with anything that was government issue. My...
August 30, 2013

I Believe In Serving Our Country

Serving our country is something I believe in. I used to hate the idea of people serving our country, especially my family, so when my brother joined the Marines I didn’t know what to think. At first I was very...
August 15, 2013

The Military Saved my Life

There was a point in my life where things were not going so well. Drugs had invaded my circle of friends at a very early age, and the type of kids I grew up with didn’t like to do anything...