American veterans were particularly affected when the United States withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021. Many saw that withdrawal as unraveling hard-won security gains earned over 20 years.

In a survey from October 2021, 70% of veterans said they felt that the U.S. did not leave Afghanistan with honor. The survey also found that veterans, particularly those who fought in Afghanistan, were more likely than civilians to feel humiliation, betrayal, disappointment, and anger in regards to the Afghanistan withdrawal. Veterans also became a key force in addressing the withdrawal’s damage. Some, with limited funds, continue to support Afghan allies left behind. Others, like Afghanistan veteran and Mission Roll Call Executive Director Cole Lyle, assist veterans challenged by what’s happened.