Author: USVM

TikTok has introduced its Veteran Voices initiative, a commitment to non-profit organizations dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by veterans and their families. Student Veterans of America (SVA) is proud to be among the ten organizations selected to receive this transformative support. SVA’s mission of empowering veterans to achieve success in higher education and beyond aligns perfectly with the goals of TikTok’s initiative.The Veteran Voices initiative will provide a grant and support to 10 veteran serving non-profit organizations (VSOs): Student Veterans of America (SVA), America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP), Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Independence Fund, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA),…

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If you’ve recently married into the military or your spouse has just joined, you may feel nervous and excited about the future. As you take on this new role, the adjustment period can feel daunting. Spouses take on responsibilities, adapt to new schedules and learn various ways of handling life’s obstacles. Luckily, you don’t have to do any of it alone. Here are several resources you can utilize to help you:For Your FamilyAs you prepare for deployment, there are a few resources you can access to give you a better understanding of the process. First and foremost, one of the…

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With over 500 attendees, there was plenty of networking opportunities at the 8th Annual VIB Network (VIBN) Conference! For the 2024 Above & Beyond Awards, VIBN commissioned US Army Veteran wood artist Jeremy Lewis to create two impactful and meaningful awards .The winners all had a fantastic year supporting and positively impacting the Veteran Business community. Mona Lisa Faris, President and Founder of U.S. Veterans Magazine, was presented the “Above and Beyond” award at the M*A*S*H Bash Banquet Dinner.The award celebrates individuals and organizations that go above the numbers and beyond what’s expected to help the Veteran Business Community succeed.The…

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What’s better than just one veteran business owner? How about two? Meet Kevin McManus Sr. and Kevin McManus Jr., the father-son duo behind Five Star Painting Charleston. With a combined 36 years of military service, Kevin Sr. and Kevin Jr. bring the discipline, precision and leadership skills honed from their time in the Air Force to their thriving business. Their military background taught them to perform under pressure daily—a lesson they now pass on to their team as they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship together. We sat down with the family-owned business to discuss the benefits service can bring to…

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By Mark Steffe Money matters weigh heavily on the minds of many military families. While the issue has roots in several areas—frequent relocations, salaries that struggle to keep pace with inflation and high military spouse unemployment—it’s compounded by financial knowledge that often lags behind the general population.The 2024 First Command Financial Behaviors Index findings continue to show a long-term trend that indicates military families are struggling with personal finance knowledge. On the nine-question test designed to measure financial understanding associated with financial readiness, 20% of military test takers correctly answered at least seven questions. This compares to 41% of civilians. Military…

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America is a nation of builders.Since its founding, the United States has flourished because of the strength and ingenuity of its people, rising to meet challenges with resilience and pride. For those who have served in the U.S. military, these values are already deeply ingrained within them. However, the mission doesn’t have to end when the uniform comes off. Veterans can continue to lead and serve by choosing a career in domestic manufacturing, playing a vital role in securing our great nation’s future.As a veteran, you understand the importance of preserving American strength and security. By working in domestic manufacturing,…

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22x platinum, GRAMMY-nominated rockers SKILLET are partnering with VET TIX to provide free concert tickets to veterans. Their latest digital track, “All That Matters,” off their upcoming album REVOLUTION (11/1/14), has resonated loudly with military families. The band will grant a Hero’s Wish, where a specific event wish is granted to Active Duty Military Personnel (up to six months after their deployments), severely wounded Veterans (Purple Heart Required) or the families of men and women killed in action (KIA).  Click here to pre-order/donate, learn more about Vet Tix here, and about Hero’s Wish here. “Vet Tix is grateful for Skillet’s support of the…

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Whether it be protection from natural disasters, accidents or complex lawsuits, business insurance can ensure that both your business and personal assets are protected. Depending on your state, needs and circumstances, you’ll want to understand which type of insurance is best for your business. Consider the below recommendations from the Small Business Association (SBA):The Six Common Types of Insurance The federal government already requires every business with any number of employees to have insurance in the form of workers compensation, unemployment and disability insurance. In addition to these, you’ll want to think about what kind of incidents could damage your…

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Liberty University has long been a cornerstone of educational support for military veterans and active-duty members. As a top-ranking institution for military-friendly education, Liberty offers unique benefits and a robust support system that eases the transition from military to academic life, providing veterans with the tools they need to succeed in their educational and career pursuits. With the support of Ron Ramsdell, the Director of Military Education and a veteran himself, the university continues to expand its resources and programs to better serve those who have served the nation.A Veteran’s Perspective at Liberty UniversityRamsdell’s journey to Liberty University reflects the…

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The image is familiar but haunting: Michelangelo’s David stares into the distance, but instead of clutching a sling pouch, he is holding a Soldier’s helmet. His right arm is missing, as is his left leg below the knee. In their place: prosthetic limbs.The Returned Warrior takes the idealized male form and mutilates it, much like what can happen to those in combat. The striking artwork, painted in high-flow acrylic on raw linen, is the creation of Aaron D. Baldón, the 2024 President’s Art Award recipient. Photo: The Returned Warrior Courtesy of Aaron Baldon.War and its horrific effects are not abstract…

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