ABOUT
Honor Their Stories began in late 2023, when I (just 16) had the idea to turn my passion for this nation's veterans into action.
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This project seeks to advocate for veterans in a way that transcends all political, social, and economic differences/boundaries.
The Mission
Act. Speak. Empower.
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I'm Rachael Henske, a Maryland teen from a military family, and the creator of Honor Their Stories. I believe in honoring those who work to defend our country each day, and hopefully inspiring other young people to do the same.
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I created Honor Their Stories in January 2024 at 16 (although I had the initial idea in late 2023), with the goal of spreading awareness about veterans' issues in a way that will unite people from all different social and political backgrounds. That mission has since been extended to sharing current events, snapshots from military history, and shedding light on the issues facing American veterans today.
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All articles/opinions/posts are my own (although I do take information and statistics from other news sources, and indicate when I do). ​
My Work
While social media is my primary outlet for sharing my mission, my work has expanded to legislative advocacy, public speaking sessions, and educating other students about how they can be catalysts for change in their communities.
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From writing to and speaking with my congressman (both virtually and in person!), to instructing fellow young people, I hope to teach those in my generation that they are never "too young" to make a difference.
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In June 2024, I received the Ronald Reagan Leadership Medal, an award given to high school juniors and seniors across the U.S., for demonstrating leadership and selfless service, specifically through my commitment to civic engagement.
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In February 2025, I was named "Legionnaire of the Week" for meeting with my congressman about expanding veteran access to mental health treatment.
