Veteran Story Submission:

• Veterans share their stories through testimony, writings, poems, paintings, or other methods.
• Stories can be submitted online via Warrior Songs’ submission page or collected during outreach events.
• Not all stories can be turned into songs.

Selection and Pairing:

• Selected stories are paired with songwriters.
• Veterans may choose to work directly with a songwriter or remain anonymous, working through Warrior Songs.

Songwriting Process:

• Veterans have full control and final approval of the song.
• The "Nashville Rule" applies: “Write a word, get a third” – equal ownership for all involved.
• Veterans may pick their songwriter or allow Warrior Songs to choose one for them.
• Songwriters create a draft, shared with the Veteran for feedback and approval.

Revisions and Approvals:

• Veterans can approve, request revisions, or reject the song.
• If rejected, the process stops, and the song is not released.

Recording Phase:

• Approved songs move to the recording phase.
• Veterans select musicians or provide genre/feeling preferences.
• Recording, mixing, and mastering costs are covered by Warrior Songs.
• Veterans can approve or reject the studio version.

Compilation and Distribution:

• Approved songs are included in upcoming compilation CDs, released biennially.
• CDs are distributed free to Veterans through the “Free and Discounted CDs” program.
• CDs can be requested online or downloaded digitally.
• CDs are also available to organizations for free distribution and to civilians for a donation.