Contributor Instructions
Everything you need to know before submitting your contribution to Sitreps.
BLUF
There are three ways to contribute to the Sitreps community. Choose the option that feels easiest:
Guided Written Submission
Answer simple prompts in bullets or short paragraphs. No writing skill required. Recommended for most contributors.
Voice Memo Submission
Record a short voice memo. We will transcribe, edit, and format it into written prose while preserving your voice.
Long-Form / Open Format Submission
Submit your story, essay, or guide in any format and length you prefer.
We will handle editing and presentation while preserving your intent and voice.
Contributor Permissions & Preferences
Please mark these on the form when you submit.
Attribution / Credit
- On the record (full name)
- First name only
- Anonymous
Editorial Permission
- You may editorialize, restructure, and bulletize my submission into a summary if helpful, while preserving my intent
- Please do not editorialize beyond light formatting and clarity edits
Default Editing Policy
If no editorial preference is selected, we will:
- Clean up basic grammar, spelling, and clarity only
- Preserve original structure, tone, and wording
- Avoid summarizing, reframing, or adding editorial context
We will never change your meaning without permission.
Option 1: Guided Written Submission Recommended
1. Core Takeaway (Most Important)
In 1-2 sentences, what is the main thing you want another veteran to take away from this? If someone only read this section, what should they learn?
2. Your Experience (Narrative Section)
Write a few short paragraphs describing your experience. This can be candid, honest, and informal. You may find it helpful to reflect on:
- What situation or challenge you were facing
- What assumptions you had that turned out to be wrong
- What mistakes you made (or almost made)
- What eventually changed things
- What surprised you about the process
You do not need perfect structure. We will help shape this later.
3. Practical Takeaways
List 3-5 bullet points someone could apply immediately.
4. Reflection Sections (Required)
Please include both of the following sections.
What I'm Glad I Did
List 3 bullet points reflecting decisions, actions, or mindsets that helped you in hindsight.
What I Would Do Differently
List 3 bullet points reflecting lessons learned, missteps, or things you would change if you could do it again.
These sections are especially helpful to other veterans and do not need to be polished.
5. Optional Add-Ons
- Links (LinkedIn, resources, tools, etc.)
- Anything else you think is relevant
- I am open to contributing again in the future
Option 2: Voice Memo Submission
Instructions
Record a 5-10 minute voice memo answering the prompts below. Speak freely — no script required.
- What was happening in your life, career, or transition at the time?
- What challenge, mistake, or realization stands out most?
- What did you learn that other veterans should know?
- What advice would you give someone one step behind you?
If possible, also address:
- What you're glad you did
- What you would do differently
Option 3: Long-Form / Open Format Submission
You may submit:
- An essay
- A personal story
- A tactical guide
- A reflection or opinion
- Any hybrid format
There is no required length and no required structure.
If possible, please include:
- A clear core takeaway
- Practical lessons learned
- What you're glad you did
- What you would do differently
Editorial Promise
We will:
- Lightly edit for clarity, flow, and formatting only
- Preserve your voice, message, and intent
- Never publish content that misrepresents you
Our goal is to amplify lived experience, not rewrite it.
Ready to submit?
Go to Submission Form