When Jocko Willink speaks, people listen. Maybe it’s the gravel in his voice, or the unmistakable authority of someone who has lived every word he says. A retired U.S. Navy SEAL commander, leadership instructor, best-selling author and podcast host, Willink has become one of the most respected voices in America on discipline, resilience and the pursuit of excellence. This winter that voice will reach an even wider audience as his best-selling book, Way of the Warrior Kid comes to life on screen.The upcoming film, produced by Skydance Media and Apple Studios, stars Chris Pratt as Uncle Jake, the Navy SEAL…
Author: USVM
Nate Boyer has never been one to take the easy road. A former Green Beret who later suited up for the NFL, Boyer has built his life around challenge, resilience and purpose. Today, as a filmmaker, entrepreneur and co-founder of Merging Vets and Players (MVP), he continues that mission—helping veterans and athletes navigate life after their uniforms are retired. His path, unconventional at every turn, is what makes him the perfect fit for the cover of our inaugural Veterans in Sports issue.Boyer’s story begins not with football or film, but with a sense of duty. After volunteering in Darfur, he…
Every morning, when the sun breaks over the quietness of a veteran’s world, a hopeful pair of ears perk up and a warm weight presses gently against their leg. This is the magic of K9s For Warriors—the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs for military veterans suffering from PTSD and other invisible wounds of war. At a time when nearly 20 veterans tragically take their own lives each day and over 1,000 dogs face euthanasia, this organization brings together two groups in desperate need of support. With unwavering devotion—both four-legged and human—K9s For Warriors creates powerful bonds that heal,…
By Nick Lambie Aside from combat and serving on the front lines, one of the biggest challenges many military members face is the transition from active service to civilian life. For me, moving from my role as an Air Force Master Sergeant to becoming a business owner was a journey that required me to lean on the values and skills I developed in uniform.I come from a long line of veterans in my family. During my time in service, I worked as a Command & Control Battlefield Management Operator and Surveillance Technician, coordinating airborne aircraft missions and supporting operations…
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can feel daunting. Many veterans wonder how to translate their leadership, discipline, and specialized skills into a new career. The experiences of American Military (AMU) students shows that education can be the bridge between service and civilian success. By choosing programs tailored to military needs and drawing on a supportive community, veterans are forging new paths that honor their service and expand their horizons.Finding Purpose and CommunityFor Thyshown Esperience, a Marine Corps veteran turned deputy sheriff, the pivotal moment was discovering a program that connected his diverse experiences “from military to civilian into…
Military life is defined by movement. Servicemembers are transferred to new bases every few years, deployment cycles disrupt routines, and spouses often juggle parenting, employment and relocation with little warning.These shifts can make a traditional campus education all but impossible. Yet the stories of students at American Military University (AMU) show that mobility can be an asset, not a barrier. By harnessing flexible online programs and supportive faculty, military spouses and families are turning life on the move into an opportunity to learn and grow.Finding a Path That Moves With YouOne of the most striking examples comes from Chanda Chann,…
At U.S. Veterans Magazine (USVM), our mission has always been rooted in service—service to veterans, military families, transitioning service members, and the organizations committed to supporting them. As we continue into 2026, we are proud to recognize the companies, institutions, and community partners who stand with us in empowering those who have served our nation. Their support not only strengthens our magazine, but also helps create life-changing opportunities across careers, education, business, wellness, and family life for the veteran community. To celebrate these partners, we are excited to introduce the USVM Sponsor Wall, a new digital showcase highlighting the employers,…
By Kellie Speed Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Adam Hartswick knows just how quickly first responders need to react when dealing with trauma, especially when it comes to a life-or-death situation.The former combat medic, who lost both of his legs while serving in Afghanistan’s Kandahar Province, would not be here if it weren’t for the life-saving techniques he and his fellow Soldiers implemented that fateful day when he also lost four of his brothers in arms—SFC Jeffrey C. Baker, SPC Mitchell K. Daehling, SPC William J. Gilbert and SPC Cody J. Towse.“I was on my second deployment and had been in…
To honor our nation’s veterans, numerous companies are offering discounted or free products, meals, services and events to active-duty service members, veterans and—in many cases—military spouses and dependents. These deals are available on or around the Holiday Season 2025 and may vary by location.Note: While not all locations require proof of military service, it’s always best to bring a valid military ID, veteran ID card, DD214 or other accepted documentation in case verification is needed. This list will be updated as we get more companies offering deals and freebies for the holidays.Restaurants/Food & DrinksApplebee’s: 10% off.Bob Evans: 10% discount for…
The labor market is cooling from its red-hot pace, but the next wave of hiring is already visible. Based on federal projections and 2025 trend data, five sectors are expected to stand out for job growth in 2026: health care and social assistance; technology roles tied to AI and cybersecurity; clean energy and electric vehicles; construction and infrastructure; and advanced manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor sector.Health Care is LeadingThe Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects health care and social assistance will drive the largest share of U.S. job gains this decade, propelled by an aging population and ongoing demand for…
