A Veteran’s Journey: From Army Service to Survival

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This article contains detailed accounts of military sexual trauma (MST), including references to sexual assault and violence. Reader discretion is advised. If you are a survivor of MST or sexual violence and need support, please reach out to appropriate resources for help and guidance. There will be a resource list at the end of this article.

In the ongoing series about military sexual trauma, we delve into the deeply personal and often untold stories of military sexual trauma (MST). This series aims to shed light on these harrowing experiences, offering a platform for voices that have long been silenced. In this installment, we introduce Shay, a United States Army veteran whose story encapsulates the struggle and pain associated with MST and exemplifies incredible courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Shay’s narrative takes us on a journey from the halls of academia to the rigorous life of military service, ultimately leading to a fateful night that altered the course of her life. Her experience, marked by threats, fear, and institutional challenges, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many in the military community. Through her story, we aim to foster awareness and understanding, recognizing that such stories are not just individual accounts but reflections of a broader issue needing attention and change.

Join us as we unravel Shay’s tale, a stark illustration of the need for systemic change within the military…