INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension’s Veteran R.E.A.D.S. Signature Speaker Series will feature Jason Kander, Afghanistan veteran, best-selling author and the 39th secretary of state of Missouri.

On May 19 in Independence, Kander will discuss his memoir, “Invisible Storm: A Soldier’s Memoir of Politics and PTSD.” His story offers a compelling and candid look at post-service struggles, resilience and mental health, said Joshua Shinn, lead for MU Extension’s Veteran R.E.A.D.S. Program. The discussion will be followed by a book signing.

When: 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2025.

Where: MU Extension Center at Truman Habitat for Humanity, 501 N. Dodgion Street, Independence.

This free event is open to all, with a special recognition of veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders and their families, Shinn said.

For more information, contact Shinn at jshinn@missouri.edu or visit the Veteran R.E.A.D.S. Program website at https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/veteran-reads.

Download at flyer at http://muext.us/VRPJK (PDF).

About the Veteran R.E.A.D.S. Program

Veteran R.E.A.D.S. (Resilience, Education, Advocacy, Dialogue, Service) uses storytelling and literary discussion to support veterans, first responders and service members in navigating post-service life.