Hailey
Military officers from around the world gathered at American Legion Post 5 in Emporia to take part in an enriching exchange focused on the treatment of U.S. veterans.
The event featured a detailed presentation, a shared meal, and ample opportunity for informal conversation and cultural interaction.
This unique gathering offered international military students a first-hand experience of American perspectives on veteran care—a cornerstone of the broader Field Studies Program based out of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Learning Through Real-Life Interaction
David Born, who oversees the Field Studies Program for the International Military Student Division at Fort Leavenworth, emphasized the value of real-world engagement in fostering understanding.
“Our goal isn’t to instruct officers what to think, but to encourage them to think—critically and with exposure to diverse viewpoints,” said Born. “When they visit places like Emporia and speak with everyday Americans, they witness the diversity of American life firsthand.”
The Field Studies Program is designed to expose international officers to various facets of U.S. society, including democracy, civil liberties, public services, and—in this case—veteran affairs.
A Deep Dive into U.S. Veteran Systems
The event commenced with remarks from Commander Ed Rathke, who welcomed guests and presented a brief video highlighting the mission and legacy of the American Legion.
Following the introduction, Born delivered a detailed presentation on the definition of a veteran in the U.S., the benefits they receive, and the government agencies and nonprofits—such as the American Legion—that support their well-being.
Key discussion points included:
- Eligibility requirements for veteran status in the U.S.
- Healthcare, education, and retirement benefits for veterans
- The legislative advocacy work done by veteran organizations
Global Perspectives on Veteran Status
International participants were invited to share how their home countries define and support veterans, leading to insightful comparisons.
For example, French officer Geremy Bellot described a different classification system:
“I’m already considered a former fighter because I have a foreign fighter card. You earn this after just four months of deployment—even while on active duty. That’s a big contrast with the U.S., where veteran status hinges on receiving a non-dishonorable discharge.”
Similarly, officers from other nations explained that deployment is a common prerequisite for veteran recognition, unlike the U.S. where the designation depends more on service type and discharge status.
Support Systems: U.S. vs. International Models
Another focus of the event was the robust infrastructure of U.S. veteran support organizations, which many officers noted far exceeded those in their own countries.
Commander Amable Arias from the Dominican Republic expressed admiration for America’s extensive support system:
“Veterans are respected everywhere, but the scale in the U.S. is remarkable. If I become an admiral, I want to bring these kinds of programs to my own country—and push for government funding to support them.”
Mher Gregoryan from Armenia explained how his nation has one central body, Country Keepers, which supports veterans during their post-service transition:
“We’re a small country with a small budget. We only have one group trying to help veterans reintegrate. It’s different—not like the American system, which has more resources and reach.”
Mutual Learning Across Borders
The session fostered mutual understanding and respect, not only for different military systems but also for cultural values and post-service life.
Attendees from both the American Legion and foreign militaries left with new perspectives on how countries care for those who’ve served.
Albin Hayes of Liberia expressed his appreciation:
“Being immersed in other cultures and traditions is just incredible. It broadens your view of the world and deepens your appreciation for different ways of life.”
The gathering at American Legion Post 5 in Emporia served as a meaningful bridge between global military communities, highlighting both the strengths and challenges of veteran support systems across the world.
Through presentations, dialogue, and cultural exchange, foreign officers left with deeper insights into American values and ideas they hope to adapt in their own countries.