On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, the armistice ended the fighting of World War I. This momentous day became Armistice Day in the U.S., a legal holiday honoring the peace achieved by ending the Great War. Later, in 1954, November 11 was officially proclaimed Veterans Day, honoring soldiers who fought in all wars. It’s a time to celebrate America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

In honor of Veterans Day, this post highlights veterans and sheds light on an important health issue affecting many who have served: skin cancer and melanoma. Research shows that veterans are at higher risk for melanoma, with one study indicating that a history of melanoma is approximately four times more common in veterans than in non-veterans.

This month, our articles cover a range of topics—from prevention and early detection to treatment. A particularly insightful piece explores the knowledge-action gap in preventing skin cancer among military personnel, identifying challenges and potential strategies to improve outcomes.

We also share the powerful story of Chip Hlavacek, a retired Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer and long-time volunteer for AIM’s Steps Against Melanoma walk in Salt Lake City, as he navigates his own melanoma journey.

As part of our Veterans Day features, AIM at Skin Cancer, an entity of AIM at Melanoma, hosted an in-depth discussion with Dr. Rebecca Hartman, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Chief of the Dermatology Section at VA Boston Healthcare System. Dr. Hartman’s research focuses on improving prevention, early detection, and treatment outcomes for melanoma and other skin cancers. You can [watch the recording here].

Some of the topics covered in the discussion include:

• How military service and sun exposure increase risk for nonmelanoma skin cancer and melanoma
• Steps for prevention and early detection through self-checks and screenings
• Treatment considerations for older adults
• How caregivers can support veterans through diagnosis and care
• VA and community resources available for veterans and their families

On behalf of all of us at AIM at Melanoma, I extend our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served our country with courage and honor. Your dedication inspires our ongoing work to advance melanoma prevention, research, and support for all who face this disease.

This Veterans Day and every day, we remain committed to ensuring that every veteran—and every family—has access to the information, care, and community they deserve.

With gratitude,
Samantha Guild, JD
President, AIM at Melanoma Foundation