Author: USVM Editor

By Larry Broughton    With ethical lapses in every nook and cranny of society occurring by the minute these days…it’s a fair question.From politicians that shamelessly lie (but keep getting elected) to business leaders who tank their companies (yet pocket millions), sports stars who display morals and values fit for a sociopath (while fans cheer) to welfare cheats who rip-off the system (but are never punished), the very concept of integrity seems at odds with today’s “modern” society.With so many seemingly lying, cheating and stealing…is integrity dead? If you’re in any sort of leadership position—and want to remain there for any…

By Austin HeneveldI joined the Navy straight out of high school after receiving an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Fourteen years later, after multiple deployments, thousands of flight hours and the birth of our son, I left the service. Standing at a crossroads, I had to ask myself the question every transitioning veteran faces: What do I want to be when I grow up?I saw two clear paths. One led to stability and comfort. The other was riskier but full of potential, a leap into entrepreneurship. The decision to walk away from the military wasn’t easy, but it was…

For military veterans and their families navigating the transition to civilian life, finding a university that truly understands their journey can make all the difference. At the University of South Alabama (South), that understanding is embedded in every layer of its culture. As a designated Top Yellow Ribbon School and Military Friendly Gold institution, South is earning national recognition for doing exactly what President Jo Bonner says the school is most proud of: serving those who have served.“It’s a major point of pride,” Bonner said. “The University of South Alabama is grateful for the sacrifices made by our military-affiliated students,…

Music has long been a source of connection, healing, and strength for veterans. In recent years, several contemporary bands have stepped up not just to entertain, but to actively support those who have served. Whether through benefit concerts, veteran-focused charity work, or simply raising awareness, these bands are proving that music and mission can go hand in hand.🎶 Rock & MetalFive Finger Death Punch (FFDP) – Very active in supporting veterans; their music videos often honor service members, and they’ve partnered with veteran charities like PTSD Foundation of America and Gary Sinise Foundation.Disturbed – Vocal about supporting the troops and…

When it comes to special offers and discounts, your status as a veteran or active-duty service member gets you more than the special discounts available on Veterans Day. Many retailers, restaurants, services and more offer special benefits for military personnel and their families every day of the year. Here’s a look at some of the best perks you can take advantage of year-round. Please note that the discounts below may require a military ID. Discounts that can be redeemed by spouses and dependents will be noted as such. Discounts that require a Veterans Advantage membership will also be noted. Airlines…

Stepping into the civilian workforce can feel like entering unfamiliar territory, but you’re not starting from scratch. Your military career has equipped you with mission-critical skills: strategic execution, team leadership, operational precision and the ability to perform under pressure.The key is making civilian employers see that. That’s where LinkedIn becomes more than just a platform—it becomes your digital battlefield for opportunity. With a compelling profile and smart engagement, veterans can transform their service record into a powerful professional narrative that resonates across industries.Learn how to harness LinkedIn to elevate your presence, connect with the right people and translate your experience…

Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can be a challenging journey for veterans. Fortunately, numerous specialized resources and websites are available to help veterans find meaningful employment that leverages their unique skills and experiences. Here is a detailed look at some of the most effective platforms and programs tailored to military veterans seeking jobs.Hire Heroes USAHire Heroes USA (hireheroesusa.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses find employment. It offers free career coaching, résumé building and job search assistance. Hire Heroes USA provides personalized career coaching tailored to veterans’ military backgrounds.…

By David Raymond      I didn’t set out to become a business owner (let alone a franchisee), but looking back, every step I’ve taken seems to have led me here.Growing up, I didn’t have a lot of structure at home. I entered foster care at 10 and bounced around for a while. I wasn’t a bad kid, but I had a tough time finding direction. I got good grades but struggled with discipline, and college just wasn’t something we could afford. So, when I turned 18, my options were pretty clear: go to a community college or go into the…

For U.S. Navy veteran Patrick Eugene Miles, the transition from active duty to civilian life wasn’t without its hurdles. But joining Merck & Co., Inc. in 2017 opened the door to a new kind of service—one rooted in purpose, camaraderie and opportunity.Now an operations specialist at Merck, Miles brings decades of experience from his military career into the pharmaceutical industry, where the company’s commitment to mission-driven work resonated deeply. “A foundational principle at the company is rooted in a quote by George W. Merck, ‘We try never to forget that medicine is for the people. It’s not for the profit.’…

By Paul Peng     If you are an owner of a business—regardless of size—you are vested in the ability to have the best available talent at a competitive price point so that your business can remain profitable. That’s why you or perhaps someone who works for you goes through hundreds of resumes and interviews to achieve that goal. Veterans are often touted as the ideal employee for several reasons; however, is that really the case for your business? Let’s dive into the advantages and drawbacks—real or imagined—of having a veteran in your workforce. And for the veterans out there—some advice…