As a part of the requirements to graduate with her PsyD, Dr. Wall was required to design and conduct her own research project, and disseminate the results as her dissertation. The paper itself is still currently in editing phases, but is anticipated to be published by December 31, 2025.

Working Abstract

This study explored the experiences and perspectives of U.S. Military Veterans who have previously served in Afghanistan. Utilizing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study aimed to formally explore the effects of the immediate and unexpected withdrawal from Afghanistan as it pertains to military veterans' perspective on the purpose, value, and meaning of their previous military service, and the service of future generations.

The findings revealed five overarching themes: Pride, Moral Injury, Questioning the Government, Civilian Lack of Understanding, and Calls to Action. The study demonstrated that military veterans that once served in Afghanistan have had significant and negative reactions to the August 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, and many are no longer able to view their service as having genuine meaning or purpose.

Ultimately, this research emphasizes the necessity for increased understanding and attention to the experiences of our military veterans, who are currently feeling unheard and misunderstood, in a time of increased distress. By providing space for veterans to be heard, and amplifying their voices calling on the civilian population to serve them as they have served us, will lead to a positive increase in veteran mental health, and potentially to change on a governmental level that decreases or eliminates participation in unnecessary conflict, and on a military level where more emphasis is placed on intentionality when designing plans for military operations.