Carrie Anne Gonzalez

Today's Veteran

As a Navy photographer, I spent 3 years state side, working out of bases in Florida, Chicago, and Washington DC; and for 2 years, I was attached to the newest air craft carrier at the time, the USS George Washington.

Upon discharge from active duty, I went through a depression that I never expected. While in the military, I was a part of something bigger than just myself, a brotherhood, a sisterhood, a family…and as a civilian, I felt alone. I was no longer surrounded by my military family, by people who understood what I was feeling, or what was happening… and that was terrifying.

I know that I am not alone because there is a brotherhood, there is a sisterhood, there is a military family, there is a Veteran family and that is what bought me to this project. 

I have now begun a new journey—my latest project, Today’s Veteran, which is focused on telling stories, the stories of the seemingly forgotten both through words and photography; giving them a voice. I believe that the stories of those who have served are important roots of this nation’s history and should be told.

It is our hope that “Today’s Veterans” will reach all people who served, thank them for their service and above all—show them that they are never alone.