The introductory LRRP(S) cycle is 12 weeks. The larger LRRP(S) framework contains many modules, but the introduction is designed to establish structure, skill fundamentals, and a repeatable creation practice within a realistic timeframe.

Minimum: 2–3 hours per week for 12 weeks. Some participants will do more. What matters is consistent weekly engagement and participation in the cohort community.

Yes. You’ll start with pencil and paper, learning the fundamentals of drawing and visual storytelling. No artistic background is required — just the desire to express yourself and grow through creativity.

Not at all. Our program is built for beginners. You’ll be guided step-by-step through story development, scripting, and visual storytelling — no experience required. All you need is a willingness to learn and create.

No, we actually do not allow Combat Stories in the LRRP(S) Course. While the program encourages self-expression, we focus on learning storytelling and drawing fundamentals that will help you progress in understanding the effects of Combat-Related Post Trauma Syndrome (CRPTS).

The goal is to create a safe environment for growth, without relieving specific traumatic events. Fictional stories only during the program.

CRPTS may resemble PTSD in symptom lists, but it differs in focus. CRPTS is a peer-developed field framework that emphasizes the long-term operating state and identity disruption that can follow direct-action combat. It is not presented as a replacement for any clinical diagnosis, including PTSD.

Click Here to learn more about CRPTS.

LRRP(S) is self-paced inside a structured culture. You progress at your own pace, but weekly participation is required. You will have assignments, checkpoints, and community expectations.

Accepted participants receive program equipment and materials. Nothing is loaned.

Included:

• Core drawing supplies (pencils, erasers)
• Inking supplies (pens and ink)
• Desktop easel and portable drawing board
• Digital drawing tablet (provided later in the course)
• Clip Studio Paint PRO subscription (provided later in the course)
• CRPTS Handbook
• Storytelling and Illustration course manuals
• A finished comic in print and digital form

Yes. LRRP(S) is free to eligible Veterans who are accepted into the program.

Because cohort stability matters. LRRP(S) is built for a specific Veteran profile and requires consistent participation. Selectivity protects the cohort, the culture, and the seriousness of the pipeline.

The process is fully asynchronous (no intake call required):

Step 1: Complete the readiness screener

Step 2: Complete the full application and upload your VA decision letter

Step 3: CSF reviews your application

Step 4: Decision: Accepted / Waitlist / Denied / Needs More Info

Step 5: If accepted, you receive onboarding and cohort placement

To be considered, you must:

• Be a U.S. Military Veteran
• Provide a VA Benefit Summary and Service Verification Letter showing 100% disability rating
• Provide proof of a minimum 80% rating for PTSD
• Self-report direct-action combat experience (screened through the application)
• Commit to 2–3 hours per week minimum
• Agree to cohort participation, confidentiality, and respectful conduct

Cohorts are limited to 10 participants. New cohorts start approximately every 4 weeks, based on capacity.

LRRP(S) is designed for a narrow fit and has non-negotiable requirements. A denial is not a judgment of your service or experience. If your circumstances change and you can meet requirements later, you may apply again.

Waitlist placement usually means the cohort is full or start dates are limited. You will be contacted when a seat opens. While on the waitlist, you may receive short readiness prompts to help you stay engaged and confirm fit.

Yes. Public anonymity is allowed. You control what you share. You are not required to publish or reveal personal details publicly.

Respect and confidentiality are mandatory. You may be removed for non-participation, disrespect, harassment, threats, or violating privacy expectations. These standards exist to keep the cohort functional and safe.

Command and Signal Foundation provides non-clinical, arts-based, trauma-informed programs that support Veterans in managing the functional impacts of combat-related psychological injury. CSF does not provide therapy or clinical treatment, and programs are designed to complement — not replace — professional mental health care when Veterans are engaged in it.

No. CSF does not provide crisis intervention, suicide counseling, or substance-use treatment. If you are in immediate danger or crisis, contact emergency services or the Veterans Crisis Line (988 then Press 1, or text 838255).

No promises are made. LRRP(S) offers a structured opportunity and disciplined direction. The work is yours. Many participants may see improvements in common CRPTS outputs (sleep, anger, avoidance, isolation), but outcomes are not guaranteed.

LRRP(S) focuses on training, completion, and ownership. Sharing is optional and on your terms. CSF’s long-term vision includes building pathways for Veteran creators, but acceptance into LRRP(S) does not guarantee publication or professional placement.

Participation is required. Veterans who do not remain active weekly may be removed to keep the cohort functional. This is stated upfront to protect those who are showing up.

LRRP(S) does not require public exposure. You may use a display name, and confidentiality is mandatory. Do not share another participant’s identity or content outside the program.

Read them here:

• Safety, Boundaries, and Privacy 
• Code of Conduct

That’s completely okay — drawing skill is not a requirement to join this program.

The LRRP(S) Program starts with the absolute basics of storytelling and visual expression. You’ll learn how to use simple sketches, symbols, and layouts to communicate your ideas clearly — not perfectly.

We focus on growth, not perfection, and every exercise is designed to build confidence, not critique talent. Many participants start with stick figures and end up creating powerful, personal comics.

When you complete the LRRP(S) Program, you’ll have a finished short comic that reflects your voice, your experience, and your growth. You’ll also have the option to:

• Submit your work for publication through the Command and Signal Foundation

• Be featured in digital or print anthologies

• Receive a certificate of completion and recognition on our platform

• Join the Creator Network as a peer mentor or contributor

• Continue using your new skills for personal projects, publication, or professional development

There’s no pressure to publish — but we’re here to support you if and when you’re ready to share your story.

Your story is important — because you are.

Every experience, every perspective, and every journey holds meaning. The LRRP(S) Program isn't about comparing traumas or achievements. It's about giving you space to reflect, create, and reclaim your voice on your terms.

Yes. Receipts are issued after a donation is processed.

Yes. Monthly support can be changed or canceled at any time.

No. To protect privacy and maintain fairness, CSF does not assign donations to specific participants.

Donations fund participant equipment kits, curriculum materials, platform costs, shipping, cohort operations, and the operational costs required to run LRRP(S) responsibly.

Yes. CSF accepts select in-kind support aligned to current needs. Please use the In-Kind Inquiry form to propose an item or service.