The Mission
The Verdigris draws inspiration from real heroes.
Some of its themes—resilience in the face of trauma, the cost of service, and the strength found in unity—mirror the lived experiences of active-duty service members and veterans across the world.
To all veterans: thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your strength.
While this story is a work of fiction and not affiliated with any military organization, the author feels passionately about raising awareness for the mental-health struggles many veterans face when they return home.
Every day, far too many veterans fight battles no one sees.
And far too many fight alone.
If you’ve enjoyed this work of fiction and you are able, please consider supporting organizations dedicated to veteran mental health and suicide prevention, such as:
Your contribution—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply checking in on someone—can make a real difference.
A Note from the Author
While I have not personally served, my profession often has me working alongside combat veterans from the Global War on Terror, and I come from a family shaped by military service in WWII, Vietnam, and Iraq.
Writing about war—whether in fiction or on a tabletop—is never meant to make light of its reality. War is hell. Those who willingly step into it to protect others deserve our admiration, our support, and our love.
This hobby has been a source of community, creativity, and mental resilience for countless people — myself included. Organizations like Stack Up harness that same power to support veterans who need connection most.
When I asked the veterans I work with what organizations they would personally recommend, they specifically named The Fallen Outdoors as a group that had helped them directly.
If you are able, please consider supporting organizations dedicated to the mental health and well-being of our veterans.
To all of the veterans: Welcome home. Thank you for your service.