Veterans Transitioning to Nursing Careers

Chrysti Mincey, a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant, reflects on her nearly 25 years of service, including a deployment to Iraq where she provided detainee healthcare at Abu Ghraib prison. Following in the footsteps of her military family, Mincey has dedicated her nursing career to various roles in Queens, New York, bringing her military experience to her civilian nursing practice. Andrea Petrovanie Greene, a Navy nurse with three decades of service, highlights the pride and extensive experience gained through her work in diverse medical settings, including combat support and humanitarian missions. The narrative of veteran nurses is echoed by Nancy Wells, who served in Vietnam and faced significant challenges and PTSD, yet found little recognition upon returning home. Frankie Farmakis, a Marine Corps veteran, is pursuing a nursing degree at George Mason University, appreciating the institution's veteran-friendly approach and applying his global health experiences to nursing. Together, these stories illustrate the vital contributions and sacrifices of nurses in the military, emphasizing their dedication to patient care both on the battlefield and in civilian life.