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…
Author: USVM
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…
When Captain Johnny Nilsen, pictured above 2nd from left, retired from the U.S. Navy after 29 years, he didn’t step away from service—he just changed uniforms. Now in his third season as Military Affairs Advisor for the San Diego Padres, Nilsen channels his decades of military leadership into one of Major League Baseball’s most ambitious and authentic military outreach programs. A lifelong baseball fan raised in a sports-obsessed family, Nilsen’s journey from Navy JAG to the Padres front office is a testament to how veterans can thrive in unexpected arenas.As the fourth retired Naval Officer to hold the role, Nilsen…
Dream Vacations has once again been recognized as a Top Veteran Employer, and Air Force veteran David Johnson says the honor is well deserved. As a franchise owner and member of the company’s Advisory Council, Johnson has seen firsthand how Dream Vacations invests in service members, veterans and military spouses.“The company doesn’t just talk about being veteran-friendly—it delivers with a support system that understands the unique strengths and challenges of military life,” Johnson said.Reducing BarriersThat support begins with financial incentives. Dream Vacations offers one of the most generous veteran startup programs in the franchise industry, reducing initial costs and making…
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…
Did you miss graduating from High School due to entering the military service in World War ll, the Korean Conflict or the Vietnam War? YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA What is Operation Recognition? Operation Recognition is a program established in 1999 to recognize and honor eligible veterans of WWII, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War by awarding them with their high school diplomas if they were deployed before graduating. Eligibility: Any Veteran who received an honorable discharge for service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America between the dates of September…
The transition to civilian life is rarely a seamless process. Many veterans face unique emotional, psychological and physical challenges after service, including post-traumatic stress, depression and feelings of disconnection. While traditional therapy and medical treatment remain vital, therapeutic hobbies are increasingly being recognized as powerful tools in helping veterans reclaim a sense of purpose, stability and peace.These activities—ranging from creative arts to outdoor pursuits—can serve as practical coping mechanisms, enhance mental health and foster a renewed connection with oneself and others.Creativity as HealingCreative hobbies, such as painting, woodworking, sculpting or writing, allow veterans to express themselves in ways that talk…
Military veterans possess qualities that translate seamlessly into sports careers. One of the most direct transitions is sports coaching, where veterans apply their experience leading teams under pressure to motivating athletes.Soldiers To Sidelines offers free certification programs in football, soccer, basketball and adaptive sports for veterans and their families. Through clinics, workshops and webinars, participants connect with opportunities ranging from youth leagues to the professional level.Networking & MentorshipThe Veterans in Sports network links service members with careers in team operations, management and sports agencies. Mentorship is central, giving veterans direct access to hiring managers and industry leaders.Launched in 2015, VETSports…
