Bravery Beyond The Battlefield: Healing Through Honor

“He never talked about it” 

That’s what many children of soldiers say when asked about their father’s time at war. No tales of battle, no display of medals. Just a silent stare, a straightened back, and now and then a distant look when the fireworks burst or the patriotic songs. 

But silence is not absence. 

It’s often grief. 

It's often a trauma. 

It’s often a heavy history carried in the body, not in words. 

Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us of bravery. Of strategy, Of sacrifice. But for the men and women who served, and for the families who waited with trembling hearts, it is also a day of psychological weight. Because long after bullets stop flying, battles continue- within minds, in memories, in dreams that won’t fade. 

The Invisible Wounds of War

While we think of war, we often think of physical injuries. But many soldiers carry emotional wounds that no one can see. 

They may have Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), feel guilt for surviving, or live with constant fear and anxiety. Some wake up from nightmares . Some get scared by loud noises. Some can’t cry- and some can’t stop crying. Their families feel the pain too. Children may grow up feeling distant from a parent who seems quiet or angry. Spouses may not understand the sudden mood changes or silence. And they often wondered: “What happened to the person I knew before the war?” 

Honoring is Healing

In therapy, we often say: “What is unspoken becomes unhealed”. 

Acknowledging trauma- whether through rituals, remembrance or reflection- is not just an act of respect. It is an act of recovery. Kargil Vijay Diwas offers an opportunity not just to remember those who gave their lives, but to support those still living with the cost of survival. Honor doesn’t always have to be serious or formal. It can start with a simple, respectful conversation. Inviting a veteran to share their experiences when they’re ready can be powerful. For soldier- fathers, it’s important to talk not just about what they did in war, but how it made them feel. This emotional openness helps them heal and allows their families to understand and support them better. 

Fathers, Soldiers and Emotional Legacy

For many soldier-fathers, vulnerability was never part of their training. They were taught to be strong and silence can become a burden. When they open up about their griefs, and losses, it sends a powerful message; strength includes emotion. Honoring veterans isn’t just about medals- it’s also about recognizing their emotional struggles. Establishing safe spaces at home for open conversations helps families heal and shows the next generation that true bravery includes asking for help, feeling deeply, and connecting openly. 

So, this is Kargil Vijay Diwas, let’s rewrite what bravery looks like. Let’s honor not just the uniform, but the inner battles too. 

Because every soldier who chooses healing over hiding… 

Every father who chooses openness over silence… 

Is a building a legacy of courage not just in war, but in love. In family and in peace.