Ballast Books releases veteran transition guide by Kevin Kidder

By AI, Created 2:50 PM UTC, May 22, 2026, /AGP/ – Ballast Books released The Invisible Veteran by retired U.S. Army paratrooper Kevin Kidder on May 26, 2026. The book blends memoir and practical advice to help veterans navigate identity loss, mental health challenges, and life after military service.

Why it matters: - The Invisible Veteran targets a gap that many service members face after retirement: the loss of structure, identity, and purpose. - The book aims to help veterans, military families, and communities better understand the emotional and psychological strain that can follow military service. - Kidder frames the book as a resource for readers who feel disconnected but may not have words for what they are experiencing.

What happened: - Ballast Books announced the release of The Invisible Veteran by Kevin Kidder on May 26, 2026. - The book explores the transition from military life to civilian life and the challenges that can come with that shift. - Kidder draws on his own post-service experience after 20 years in the U.S. Army. - The release is positioned as both a memoir and a guide for veterans working to rebuild purpose and connection.

The details: - Kidder says his transition brought divorce, career uncertainty, alcohol struggles and depression after he left the Army. - He says faith, support from loved ones and self-reflection helped him rebuild his life. - The book includes practical guidance on mental health, relationships, leadership and personal growth. - Reflection questions and calls to action are built into the book to help readers examine identity and self-worth. - Kidder said, “I’m writing for the veteran who feels like something is off but can’t quite put it into words.” - He added, “If they read it and think, That’s how I feel, then I’ve done my job.”

Between the lines: - The message reflects a broader veteran-mental-health conversation that often focuses on deployment and combat but less on what happens after service ends. - The book also suggests that transition support needs to extend beyond benefits and career placement to include identity, relationships and emotional recovery. - Ballast Books is presenting the title as useful not only for veterans but also for people around them who want to understand the post-service experience.

What’s next: - Kidder is expected to continue using the book alongside his speaking, coaching and leadership work. - Through Enduring Mindset Enterprise and the Enduring Mindset Foundation, Kidder continues to support veterans with scholarships, mentorship and transition-focused initiatives. - His broader work includes the Enduring Mindset Podcast, which centers on leadership, resilience, purpose and personal growth. - The foundation’s efforts are aimed at helping veterans build meaningful lives after military service.

The bottom line: - The Invisible Veteran is designed as both a personal story and a practical roadmap for life after uniformed service.