Mariah Rose Turman

Name: Mariah Rose Turman
City/State: Grand Junction, Colorado
Branch of Service: Army and PMC spouse, gold star USMC sister, Vietnam Navy daughter
Years of Service: 2005-2018
Last Rank Held: N/A
Occupation: Military Transition Advisor, DMVA-Veteran Outreach and Support, DEERS Operator, CRSC Ambassador

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

I find joy in the great outdoors! I like to explore nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around me. My family is at the heart of everything I do, and I cherish the moments spent with my loved ones. Gardening is a passion of mine, where I find peace and satisfaction in nurturing plants and creating a thriving space. I love travelling the world and experiencing new cultures. I have a special love for learning, seeking knowledge, and growing in both my personal and professional life.

Why are you joining the IAVA Cavalry?

 The turning point in my advocating journey came when my spouse returned from his 20th deployment, suffering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I watched each deployment change him, but that last deployment would end up changing both of us forever. It was clear that while the military had an incredible sense of camaraderie and pride, there was a significant gap in supporting those who served and their families in practical ways. I found myself dealing with the bureaucratic nightmare of military life. Navigating the complexities of transitioning out of that life, obtaining military benefits, healthcare, and the challenges of accessing veteran services became a never-ending struggle. Common resources were available to veterans, but navigating the system felt impenetrable. It was a new kind of battle.

This experience ignited a fire within me. I needed a source to turn to, and there was none. I made it my goal to become that source so others wouldn’t be in that position and feel helpless. I realized that I could use my voice, my experiences, and my position within the military community to fight for change. I became a federal contractor, working as a military transition assistance advisor. I briefed units going on/returning from deployments, service members getting out of the military, and many others. That turned into being a main POC for resources across tribal lands, multiple states, and veteran support coalition partners. I became a problem solver, cutting red tape and heavily advocating for veterans and veteran support agencies. I realized how valuable my background was, and how much my story could help others. I became a vocal advocate for veterans’ policy, meeting with legislators, engaging with all veteran support organizations, actively serving on every available regional veteran committee, and working with national, state and local organizations that provide support to active military, veterans and their families. These roles have led me to my new journey with IAVA.

How did your military experience shape you to be the person you are today?

Being a military spouse profoundly shaped the person I am today by teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of finding strength in uncertainty. I’ve learned to thrive in an ever-changing environment, constantly adjusting to new locations, routines, and challenges. A life of continuous deployments taught me to be independent and resourceful, managing life’s demands with patience and self-reliance. Along the way, I’ve built an unshakeable support network, formed deep bonds with others who understand the unique struggles of military and veteran life. The experience has given me a greater sense of empathy and a stronger sense of purpose, as I navigate the ups and downs with a sense of determination and pride in the role I play in supporting my family and veteran community.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you believe is the most pressing? Why?

At this moment in history, the most pressing priority is advocating and fighting for our veterans who have fought to liberate people from authoritarianism throughout the world. Now that it is at our own front door, the priority level is critical to fight for our country and for those who have fought for us.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you have the strongest personal connection to? Why?

 As a SF training instructor/advisor, my spouse spent 6+ years in Afghanistan. He worked with interpreters and allies that were an essential part of his mission and success. Those relationships were extremely important and have a large part in our story. It was heartbreaking watching and hearing the media stories, but more so hearing directly from those allies during the Taliban takeover and since. Afghanistan was more than a mission, it was a significant chapter of our lives. Seeing firsthand, the moral injury that many service members live with, makes this policy extra special to me.