CWV Book Corner, August: Navy Veteran Jasmine Rush

This month’s Book Corner author is Navy Veteran Jasmine Rush, who served as an Aviation Boatswains Mate Handler from 2000-2004. She wrote, “Help Me Tell, Finding Your Voice After Trauma.” She was born and raised in Baltimore, MD, and has sought to educate others on adolescent mental health while encouraging children and young adults to not be afraid to use their voice.

“Help Me Tell” follows a young girl on a journey from trauma to healing. Lilly lost her ability to communicate after a life-changing incident. But with the help of her family and friends, she eventually found her voice and soon was able to “tell.” The children’s book is filled with easy-to-read storytelling and colorful illustrations that capture the heart and soul of Lilly’s journey.

Can you share a brief background of your military experience, including your branch of service, years served, and any notable positions or deployments?

As an active Navy personnel, I helped commission the USS Iwo Jima LHD-7. I was one of the original plank owners serving on the first crash and salvage crew as a team leader.

What inspired you to write a book and share your story as a woman Veteran?

I was inspired to write a book as a woman who had experienced many different traumatic experiences throughout my life, and I wanted to provide a resource that can be utilized from a child’s age up until adult age. As a Veteran I have heard of countless stories of women Veterans who have experienced traumatic events, and I wanted to help people begin the journey of healing.

How has your military background influenced your writing style and the themes you explore in your work?

My military background influenced my “get it done” attitude. I worked hard to put together a product that would be ready to go. I researched and found assistance where needed.

How do you hope your book will impact other women Veterans, active-duty service members and the general public?

My hope is that this book will be impactful to anyone who takes the time to read it. Why? Freedom matters, and it’s important to me to develop the ability to speak about your experiences instead of allowing them to hold you hostage because of you fear what may happen. I hope that women Veterans, active duty service members and the general public will benefit from my book as a resource to start conversations that can lead to healing.

What role do you think storytelling and literature play in fostering understanding and support for the women Veterans community?

Storytelling in general is a powerful tool. Telling stories is the same things as history. It is the lived experiences of others that help shape the world that we live in today. Women Veterans sharing their stories is important to the community at large because it is all for freedom.

Can you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your time in the military that has had a lasting impact on your life and writing?

One thing that I learned in the Navy was hurry up and wait. This has been something that I have struggled with in a world of instant gratification. But there is something so important about hurry up and wait. As you build something it takes time. Nothing worth its weight is built overnight. My time in the Navy has continued to impact me in that way to make sure that I use my resources, skills, talents and abilities to take my time and get it right.

Are there any fellow women Veteran authors or books that have inspired or resonated with you? If so, could you tell us a bit about them?

There are no fellow women Veteran authors that I was aware of when I wrote my book.

How do you believe the Women Veterans Book Corner can help bring awareness to the civilian and military communities, particularly about women Veterans?

I believe that continuing to open up spaces for Women Veterans to be heard will bring awareness to all who are willing to listen, do some research and dig in.

What advice do you have for other women Veterans or active-duty service members who may be considering writing about their experiences?

My advice to other women Veterans would be to do it. Do it scared, do it unsure, do it anyway. You never know how your story will impact the life of someone else and even if you write for just one you have made an impact on society.

How has writing this book helped you?

This book has helped me in my journey to healing. Writing this book also taught me a few things about research as well as the importance of a very good network.

Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or events you’re involved in that our audience might be interested in?

I am working on my next book in the series, and I hope to have it released in 2024.

Are you a woman Veteran author, or do you know of one?

If so, please visit our website to find out more information. If you have further questions, contact the CWV Outreach Program Manager Michelle Terry at 00W@VA.Gov.