Freedom Isn’t Always Quiet

Navigating the Fourth of July With Veterans in Mind

For many, the Fourth of July is a celebration—backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and fireworks painting the night sky in red, white, and blue. It’s a symbol of freedom.

But for some veterans, it can also be a reminder.

The loud, unexpected booms. The smell of sulfur. The flashing lights. These aren’t just sensory events—they can be triggers. For veterans who carry the weight of combat experiences, the very traditions meant to celebrate freedom can unintentionally echo the environments they worked hard to survive.

It’s not about being unpatriotic. It’s about being human.

At SOVO, we’ve seen what this week can stir up—heightened anxiety, disrupted sleep, a silent sense of needing to retreat. And we’ve also seen how awareness and compassion make a difference.

Here’s how we can all be better neighbors this July 4th:

• Let folks in your neighborhood know in advance if you plan to light fireworks.
• Consider quieter celebrations—there are “veteran-friendly” fireworks options now.
• Check in. A simple text or drop-in can be grounding for someone riding out a difficult evening.
• Respect those who decline to celebrate. They may be honoring freedom in their own way.

Independence means more when everyone can access it. And honoring service means making space for the full reality of what that service cost.

So as the sky lights up this week, let’s remember: freedom is worth celebrating. And so is compassion.