A Message from Sarge
Fellow Veterans,
The 4th of July is approaching, and while most Americans are planning barbecues and fireworks displays, many of us are preparing for something entirely different – a night of hypervigilance, anxiety, and memories we’d rather forget.
If you’re dreading the fireworks, you’re not alone.
You’re Not Broken – You’re Human
Let’s get something straight: If fireworks trigger you, that doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human. Your brain learned to associate sudden loud noises with danger because that association kept you alive.
Your nervous system is doing exactly what it was trained to do – protect you. The problem is, it can’t always tell the difference between celebration and combat.
PTSD is a Service-Connected Disability
Here’s what every veteran needs to know: PTSD from military service is a legitimate, compensable disability. Whether your trauma came from:
- Combat exposure in Iraq, Afghanistan, or other deployments
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) during service
- Training accidents that endangered lives
- Witnessing traumatic events during military duties
- The cumulative stress of military culture and separation
You’ve earned disability compensation for the impact on your life.
Practical Strategies for July 4th
You don’t have to suffer in silence. Here are battle-tested strategies from veterans who’ve been there:
Before the Holiday:
- Plan your exit strategy – know where you can go if you need to leave
- Stock up on noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
- Inform your family about your triggers without shame
- Identify your support network – who can you call?
- Consider medication timing if you’re working with a VA provider
During Fireworks:
- White noise apps can help mask sudden sounds
- Grounding techniques – name 5 things you can see, 4 you can hear, 3 you can touch
- Breathing exercises – 4 counts in, hold for 4, out for 4
- Safe spaces – basement, interior room, anywhere that feels secure
- Pet therapy – many veterans find comfort with their service animals
After the Holiday:
- Be gentle with yourself – recovery takes time
- Reconnect with your support system
- Consider professional help if symptoms worsen
- Remember this feeling passes
Veterans Looking for Peaceful Alternatives to traditional July 4th celebrations
Here are some options for firework-free celebrations:
State Parks & Natural Areas
Many state parks offer quiet July 4th alternatives:
- National Parks often have daytime celebrations without fireworks
- State forests and wilderness areas – naturally quieter locations
- Remote camping areas – distance from populated firework zones
- Beach areas away from major tourist spots
📍Specific Veteran-Friendly Locations & Events
VFW & American Legion Posts
- VFW Posts nationwide are hosting “quiet celebrations” – Tyler, Texas VFW had a successful firework-free July 4th event in 2022
- American Legion Post 155 in Crystal River, Florida hosts “Escape the Fireworks” events (6585 W. Gulf to Lake Highway) – July 4th from 6 PM to midnight
Religious & Community Centers
- Churches/religious centers – often host daytime, firework-free events
- Community centers – indoor celebrations
- Libraries – some offer quiet patriotic programming
- Senior centers – typically avoid loud celebrations
🤝 Support the Growing Trend: Destinations Ditching Fireworks
The Washington Post reports that many destinations are switching to drone shows and laser displays specifically to accommodate:
- Veterans with PTSD
- Pet owners
- Neurodivergent individuals
- Anyone sensitive to loud noises
Practical Strategies
If you can’t find a specific location:
- Book cabins in remote areas (Shenandoah, Catoctin Mountain Park)
- Plan camping trips away from populated areas
- Visit 24-hour establishments like some Walmart locations (surprisingly quiet)
- Stay with understanding family/friends in rural areas
Resources to Check
- Local VA Medical Centers – call and ask about quiet spaces
- Veteran Service Organizations – VFW, American Legion, DAV chapters
- State park websites – many list their July 4th policies
- Veteran Facebook groups – local veterans often share safe spaces
Helplines:
- VA Crisis Line: 988, Press 1 (24/7 support)
- Crisis Text Line: Text 838255
- Veterans Community Living Centers: Local peer support
- Vet Centers: Readjustment counseling (no disability rating required)
A Message from One Veteran to Another
Your service mattered. Your sacrifice was real. Your struggles are valid.
The fireworks will end. The holiday will pass. You will get through this.
And when you’re ready – whether that’s tomorrow or next year – we’ll be here to help you claim the benefits you’ve earned through your service and sacrifice.
Because not on my watch, not in battle, and no vet leaves a vet behind.
Need Help with Your PTSD Claim?
Contact Boots 2 Benefits:
📞 (443) 924-6809
Available Tuesday – Sunday | Closed Mondays & Federal Holidays
IGY6 Fund available for veterans who need help but can’t afford it – because you already paid with your service.
You served. You earned it. Now file with confidence.
Stay strong, stay safe, and remember – you’re not alone in this fight.
🎖️ Sarge
U.S. Army Veteran
Boots 2 Benefits, LLC