A Case Study of Veteran Identity as a Female

The terms veteran, or soldier, typically evoke a male image, creating barriers to female veteran identity and recognition. Using a case study methodology, one female veteran’s perspective was explored using qualitative interviews and supporting documents. Findings show that the female veteran had the same training and deployment experiences as her male counterparts, and therefore, demonstrates her full status as a veteran. Also noted are the ways in which her female identity as a veteran was expressed and experienced by others. This case study involves perspectives related to female veteran identity across three generation and suggests changes related to females in combat roles and societal progress in terms of supporting women in the military. Implications for social workers include learning more about the military culture, asking about veteran status, and providing social work courses with a military emphasis