Author: USVM Editor

Leaving the military is a major life change. One day your schedule, paycheck, health care and even where you live may be tied to military service—and suddenly you’re responsible for putting all of those pieces together yourself.The good news is that you don’t have to figure everything out during your final few weeks in uniform. In fact, one of the best things you can do is start earlier than you think you need to.Whether you’re retiring after a full military career or separating after one enlistment, here’s a practical timeline to help make the transition to civilian life a little…

When Chef Robert Irvine first appeared on the cover of U.S. Veterans Magazine in 2017, his commitment to the military and veteran community was already unmistakable. Nearly a decade later, that commitment hasn’t slowed—it has evolved.While Irvine has continued to grow his business ventures, write books and remain a familiar face on television, some of his most meaningful work happens alongside service members, veterans, first responders and their families. Through the Robert Irvine Foundation, he identifies unmet needs and helps create practical solutions that strengthen the military community.It is why U.S. Veterans Magazine is honored to feature Irvine on its…

Luke Simianer thought his fighting days were over. A veteran of the 82nd Airborne and Purple Heart recipient, he confronted the harsh realities of civilian life, battling depression and homelessness, before founding a tech startup to help the blind secure jobs and training.Yet even as that venture took shape, Simianer couldn’t look away from a larger crisis unfolding around him. Reports revealed that one in three VA claims were denied, while veteran homelessness, drug abuse and suicide rates continued to rise. The same warriors he once served beside were now fighting invisible battles against bureaucracy and neglect.For Simianer, enough was…

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life is complex. For service-disabled veterans, that transition can be even more demanding—physically, mentally and emotionally. Few individuals embody that journey, and the possibility beyond it, as visibly as Noah Galloway.A former Soldier wounded during the Iraq War, Galloway sustained life-altering injuries in 2005, losing his left arm and left leg after an improvised explosive device explosion. His recovery was neither immediate nor straightforward. Like many veterans adjusting to trauma, he experienced periods of isolation and personal struggle after returning home.In September 2015, as part of the Homes for Our…

Fifteen ROTC seniors from across the country are taking the next step toward their futures with the help of Navy Federal Credit Union, which recently awarded its annual ROTC All-American Scholarships in recognition of their academic and military excellence.Now in its 9th year, the program has become an annual tradition for Navy Federal, which contacts all 542 collegiate ROTC units nationwide each year inviting them to nominate students for recognition through the ROTC All-American Scholarship Program. Since 2018, the credit union has received more than 2,000 student submissions and recognized 124 students through the scholarship initiative.From this year’s 239 qualifying…

Former Marine reconnaissance veteran, television personality and conservationist Rudy Reyes shares his remarkable journey of resilience, service and renewed purpose in the November issue of U.S. Veterans Magazine. From the battlefields of Iraq to the demanding challenges of reality television, Rudy Reyes has built a life defined by strength, determination and an unwavering commitment to service. Known to audiences for his appearances on Generation Kill, SAS: Who Dares Wins and Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, Reyes has earned recognition for his military expertise, physical endurance and ability to inspire others to push beyond their perceived limitations. But behind the television…

When service members transition out of the military, many are eager to find a new mission—one that still allows them to serve their country. For thousands of veterans, that next chapter begins within the federal government. Whether it’s at the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Treasury or the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans continue to play a critical role in shaping national policy, safeguarding public interests and supporting their fellow Americans.Natural FitAccording to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), veterans make up nearly 31% of the federal civilian workforce, with more than 635,000 veterans currently serving across agencies.…

Military spouses represent one of the most underutilized talent pools in the U.S. workforce. Recruiters who intentionally include them in hiring strategies can gain a competitive advantage—both in workforce quality and employer brand.According to the DoD, there are more than 578,000 spouses of active-duty service members in the United States. Despite this sizable population of qualified adults, military spouses face persistent employment challenges. The unemployment rate for spouses of active-duty service members has hovered around 21% to 22%, roughly four to five times the national civilian average.These numbers reflect systemic barriers, not a lack of talent. Frequent relocations, difficulty transferring…

Good news is on the way for millions of disabled veterans and military retirees! Monthly benefit payments are set to increase by 3.6% in 2027, providing some welcome financial relief as Americans continue to deal with rising costs for groceries, housing, health care and everyday essentials.The Social Security Administration officially announced the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on October 14, 2026. The increase is higher than the 2.8% adjustment in 2026 and represents the largest COLA in four years.While any increase is welcome news, what does this mean for veterans, military retirees and their families? Let’s take a closer look.How Much…

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.Deals are available on or around Veterans Day 2026 and may vary by location.The list will be updated as we get more companies offering deals and freebies.Already confirmed for Veterans Day 2026Food & DiningBar Louie — Free burger November 10–11, excluding the Big Louie. Dine-in only; military ID required.Biscuit Belly — Free breakfast biscuit sandwich and coffee or fountain drink. Dine-in only; all locations listed.BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse — Free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie…