MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin is home to many Native American tribes. Within them are thousands of veterans who have served our country.
One Wisconsin man has found a way to make an impact on the 12 nations across the state.
For the past 20 years, the Milwaukee Veteran’s Association has been working to serve thousands of Native American veterans in the state.
And through the work of one counselor, their culture is being incorporated into their care.
Rodney Pearsall has been working with veterans for the past 25 years. The outreach worker, who is also Native American, said he knows what it’s like to need help.
“Through my life, I’ve had difficulties and all the sudden someone was there to help me out and [I’m] here today because of those people,” Pearsall said.
Pearsall said he’s been lending that same helping hand to fellow Native Americans, who are also veterans, by helping them navigate care.
“For me, what I do at the Vets Center is help others who are experiencing difficulties and helping them recover the best they can from their life in war,” Pearsall said.
Besides helping veterans navigate care, Pearsall also helps Native American veterans incorporate culture into their care.
“That saved me when I came to the VA,” Pearsall said in describing his role with the Milwaukee VA.
For Myron Webster, this aspect was life changing.
Webster is a U.S. Army veteran with a Native American heritage. In 2008, he came to the VA for help with an alcohol addiction. Since then, he’s found healing and uses his art as a form of therapy.
“It gives me the sense that I did something right. I did something that our ancestors would want us to do,” Webster said.
Pearsall said he’s able to help provide the best care by using traditional ways and incorporating them into their treatment.
“It’s meaningful because it gives you a sense of belonging and support, especially in the difficult times someone might have,” Pearsall said.
It’s something Pearsall said he believes is a part of his life’s purpose and would make his ancestors proud.
Editor's Note: Rodney Pearsall was misidentified as a veteran in the initial story. This story has been updated to reflect that change. (Dec. 15, 2022)