In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re honored to share the inspiring journey of Kathryn "Kat" Kirkman, a fourth-generation military veteran. Following a family legacy of service, Kat began her career at the United States Air Force Academy, where she studied astronautical engineering before becoming an air refueling pilot. However, her military career came to an abrupt end when medical issues led to an early retirement.

Faced with the question of what to do next, Kat found herself drawn to social work. She didn’t know then that her path would lead her to serving veterans. Today, she is the co-founder of Sisters in Wellness, an organization focused on supporting women veterans through connection, overall wellness, and suicide awareness and prevention.

 Additionally, she leads employment and training programs at the Veteran Multi-Service Center, helping veterans navigate life beyond the military.

Listen in as Kat shares her inspiring journey and reminds us that even when life takes an unexpected turn, it can open doors to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro
1:41 – Kat’s military background and transition to civilian life
5:39 – How social work led Kat back to helping veterans
8:30 – Helping female veterans through Sisters in Wellness
11:15 – Kat’s work with veteran employment
14:28 – Homecoming 250 celebration
15:51 – Kat’s encouragement to listeners

Kat Kirkman

Learn more about Kat HERE

EPISODE LINKS 

Sisters in Wellness: https://sistersinwellness.eventbrite.com/, email: vetsistersinwellness@gmail.com

Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC): https://www.vmcenter.org/

VMC Employment and training email: hvrp-philly@vmcenter.org

Homecoming 250: https://www.homecoming250.org/

Homecoming 250 All Veterans Reunion Picnic email: kat.kirkman@homecoming250.org

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.