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 show 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…
Author: USVM
Few names embody discipline and leadership like Jocko Willink. The retired Navy SEAL commander turned bestselling author, entrepreneur and podcaster has built an empire on principles forged in the chaos of combat. In an exclusive conversation with Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine, Willink opened up about his extraordinary journey—from leading elite SEAL Teams on the battlefield to leading companies and communities across the country.For two decades, Willink commanded some of the most elite units in the U.S. military, operating in the world’s most demanding environments. Today, he channels those lessons into a new mission: helping…
President’s Day isn’t just a day off for some and a quick history refresher for others—it’s also one of the first big sales weekends of the year. If you’ve been waiting to make a major purchase, chances are this holiday has your name written all over it.Originally set aside to honor U.S. presidents (with George Washington’s birthday at its core), President’s Day has evolved into a go-to moment for retailers to roll out deep discounts. And shoppers? We’re more than happy to participate.So, what’s usually on sale? Just about everything. Mattress and furniture stores go all out during President’s Day,…
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…
Military veterans have always had a unique way of leaving their mark on entertainment. Long before streaming platforms and red carpets, veterans were already bringing their discipline, resilience, and real-world experience to screens, stages, and studios—and audiences have been better for it ever since.For many veterans, entertainment becomes a natural next chapter after service. Storytelling, performance, and creative expression offer a way to process experiences while connecting with others. That authenticity often shows up in their work. When a veteran delivers a line on screen, writes a script, or produces a project, there’s often an added layer of depth—because they’ve…
When Air Force veteran Jim Dolan first launched a kayak with a few wounded service members on a quiet Texas lake in 2007, he wasn’t starting a movement—at least not intentionally. He and a handful of fellow kayak fishing enthusiasts simply wanted to give back to the military community they loved. Yet that day at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio sparked something far larger: a nationwide effort that would eventually reach more than 85,000 veterans, first responders and family members.Their vision evolved into Heroes on the Water (HOW), a nonprofit built around three simple words: Paddle. Fish. Heal.…
When you’re part of the military community, financial planning often comes with a few extra layers—PCS moves, deployments, unexpected expenses, and big transitions can pop up with little notice. That’s why Navy Federal Credit Union’s newest offering feels especially timely. The 13-month Special Certificate is designed to help service members, veterans, and their families set aside money with intention, without sacrificing flexibility or peace of mind.This special certificate offers a 4.00% APY with just a $50 minimum deposit, delivering a return that’s more than twice the national average. Unlike a traditional savings account, it allows members to clearly separate everyday…
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Take advantage of this special offer for the veteran community and get 15%-20% off on your purchase by using the promo code VETMAG!U.S. Veterans Magazine has partnered with 1800Flowers.com to offer an endless assortment of fresh flowers and gifts for every reason.1800Flowers.com is the best choice when shopping online for gifts and flowers just because, or for special occasions like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day.1800Flowers.com has become a go-to destination for celebrating life’s moments—both big and small—with style, ease, and heart. Known for its wide selection of fresh floral arrangements, gourmet gift baskets,…
Across generations of conflict and change, Black Americans have worn the uniform of the United States with courage and conviction—often fighting two battles at once: one abroad for freedom and another at home for equality. Their service has helped define the nation’s military legacy, even when recognition came decades too late.From the muddy trenches of World War I to today’s command centers, Black service members have not only defended the country but have pushed it closer to the ideals it promises. Their stories—sometimes forgotten or overlooked—deserve to be told, remembered and honored.The Harlem HellfightersDuring World War I, the 369th Infantry…
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,…
