Meet Jenna Carlton: The Millennial Veteran Building a Better Future for Her Community
Originally from Wisconsin, Jenna joined the Navy straight out of high school. She served as an Aerographer’s Mate, analyzing weather patterns while stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, and deploying aboard the USS Harry S. Truman. Her military service was just the beginning of a larger purpose she hadn’t fully realized yet.
After transitioning out of the Navy in 2017, Jenna embarked on a new chapter. She took part in an internship with the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, a pivotal moment that helped her discover her passion for serving fellow veterans. It was in that experience that Jenna felt a deeper calling begin to take shape.
A Voice for the Next Generation of Veterans
Jenna’s transition to civilian life wasn’t easy. Shortly after getting out, she found out she was pregnant and had just moved to Maryland. The identity shift, paired with the isolation many veterans feel, left her struggling to find her footing. “I was headed down a dark path,” she shares. “But connecting with other veterans—especially other women—was the first time I actually felt heard.”
In 2020, Jenna noticed something missing in the spaces designed to support veterans: younger voices and female representation. She found herself showing up to events and meetings, often as the only millennial or the only woman in the room.
Rather than turning away, she leaned in, and if she wanted to see younger and female veterans involved, she had to show up and be that person first.
That same year, she launched an online community to bring together younger veterans—those navigating the often uncertain years post-service. Her mission was simple but powerful: connect veterans to one another, create a place of healing, and remind them that they aren’t alone.
Jenna also volunteers with Operation Second Chance, a nonprofit that provides resources, retreats, and support to veterans and their families. Locally with Operation Second Chance she runs a women veteran’s group, fostering connection and empowerment in her own community.
The Veteran Workbook: Healing Through Reflection
In 2023, Jenna published The Veteran Workbook, a journal-style resource that encourages veterans to reflect on their service and build a better future. It’s more than a book—it’s a guide to self-discovery, mental wellness, and resilience.
Creating the workbook was a natural extension of her mission to help veterans not only survive post-service life but thrive in it.
A Changing Culture of Veterans
As a millennial veteran, Jenna is part of a generation reshaping how we talk about service, transition, and healing. “Times are changing,” she says. “We’re intentional, we’re focused on healing, and we’re showing up for each other.”
Her work has resonated with others in the community. In 2024, she spoke at the Military Influencer Conference—a powerful opportunity to share her message and connect with fellow veterans and changemakers.
Her Message on Resilience
Jenna believes resilience starts with recognizing that most things in life are temporary—except love. “The best thing you can do,” she says, “is learn how to love yourself. That’s what allows you to flourish and be the best human you can be.”
Get Involved
Jenna currently lives in New Jersey with her husband and children. To learn more about Jenna’s work or to find resources through Operation Second Chance, visit their website. You can also find The Veteran Workbook online and join the movement of younger veterans committed to healing, connection, and change.
To learn more and Jenna and join the community use the links below:
