Marine Veteran Reveals the Silent Deadly Battle Within Service

Urban Valor: the podcast

In this Urban Valor episode, we sit down with Kristine Phanthavilay, a former U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant (E6) and Motor Transport Mechanic (2006-2010). Born and raised in San Diego, CA, Kristine joined the Marine Corps after struggling in college, looking for something more. She shares what it was like growing up as a first-generation American from Laotian refugee parents, knowing little about the military until 9/11 changed everything.
Kristine opens up about the mental and physical challenges of boot camp, the pressure of being a female Marine, and the difficult leadership she faced during her service. She also speaks candidly about the emotional toll of military life, including the loss of fellow service members and the struggles veterans face transitioning back to civilian life. After leaving active duty to raise her child, she realized how much she missed the Marines and returned to the Reserves, balancing military life with single motherhood.
This conversation sheds light on the real mental health challenges that veterans face, the gaps in military support, and the resilience it takes to keep pushing forward. Kristine’s story is one of strength, heartbreak, and finding purpose despite the struggles. If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health challenges, reach out—support is available.
👍 Like this video to support to show appreciation for Kristine and/or Urban Valor.
🗣️ Comment your support or ask any questions. Sometimes, our interviewees respond, and we at Urban Valor will do our best to respond as well!
✅ SUBSCRIBE to support Urban Valor and the courageous Veterans who tell their stories AND so you NEVER miss a weekly episode of our veteran stories. New stories every Sunday!
Your engagement greatly supports our mission to share authentic and impactful veteran stories.
Video Chapters:
04:33 - Boot Camp Struggles & Proving Herself
10:58 - Toxic Leadership & Mental Health Battles
16:34 - Life After the Marines & Returning to the Reserves
20:21 - Losing Friends to Self-Inflicted Wounds & Coping with Grief
#military #urbanvalor #warstories #usarmy #usarmyveteran #warstories #veteranpodcast