Honoring Service Through Story: Marine Corps vet Peter O'Cain recognized for investigative journalism on veterans' mental health
Wenatchee World News Editor Peter O'Cain stands for a portrait at his workstation Wednesday at The Wenatchee World. Ocain has been named one of the top military veterans in journalism by Military Veterans In Journalism. Photo by Jacob Ford
By Jenni Rodas, Wenatchee World staff writer
WENATCHEE — Wenatchee World News Editor Peter O'Cain has been named one of the top military veterans in journalism by Military Veterans in Journalism, an industry organization aimed at getting more veterans involved in newsrooms nationwide.
O'Cain, a Marine Corps vet, submitted a story he wrote about veteran mental health, "How a lack of veterans mental health services contributed to 2 police shootings in 18 months," to the Top 10 Veterans in Journalism Competition for 2024.
The piece delves into how the lack of mental health services for veterans played a role in two police-involved shootings involving veterans.
"I mean, it's humbling," O'Cain, 39, said about earning the recognition. "I was glad that Alex White's story got recognition."
O'Cain served as a multi-channel transmission equipment operator in the Marines from 2003 to 2007, but he always knew his true calling was journalism.
His passion for writing began in high school, where he contributed to the school newspaper. After leaving the military, he pursued a degree in journalism in college.
As a military veteran in journalism, O'Cain believes he brings a unique voice and perspective to his storytelling and writing.
"I think (veterans) know how to report on veteran military issues better, because there's a lot of nuance that people who aren't veterans might miss," O'Cain said. Adding, "I think that like kind of cultural literacy comes in or helps me out a lot."
Managing Editor for The World, Nancy Niles, said having a wide variety of backgrounds and life experiences in a newsroom "adds context and texture" to journalists' work.
"Pete's lived experiences are unique and valuable to both us and our readers," Niles said. "He is a very hands-on journalist who connects with not only those he's reporting on and for but also with those he mentors in our newsroom. We're very lucky to have him."