Whether taking a break or visiting family, veterans can stretch their travel budgets thanks to hotel discounts offered by major lodging brands. From Hilton to Hyatt, many companies continue to recognize military service through discounted leisure rates designed specifically for veterans, retirees and their families. Many national and international hotel groups maintain “military” or “government/military” rate categories. These rates require proof of eligibility at check-in—such as a valid military ID, a veteran ID card or a DD214—and may apply to both leisure travel and official duty stays. IHG, which includes Holiday Inn and InterContinental among its 20 brands, offers a…
Author: USVM
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,…
As service members prepare to transition from military service to civilian careers, large employers play an increasingly influential role in shaping post-service opportunities. Amazon has positioned itself as one of the most visible corporate partners supporting the veteran community through structured fellowships, training programs and long-term career development pathways.Through initiatives such as its Military Fellowship and participation in the DoD’s SkillBridge program, Amazon connects military experience with roles across technology, logistics, operations and leadership functions throughout its global workforce.Hiring CommitmentAmazon employs tens of thousands of veterans and military spouses across its businesses. In 2021, the company publicly committed to hiring…
If you’re a veteran with dreams of running your own business, you’ve already proven you have the discipline, dedication, and leadership skills to succeed. But let’s be real—getting the right funding to kickstart or expand your business can feel like navigating a minefield. Luckily, there are plenty of loan options out there tailored just for veterans, and we’re here to help you figure out how to secure the financing you need.Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of business loans, let’s acknowledge one simple fact: veterans are naturally built for business. The same qualities that help service members thrive—problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork—are…
In a powerful and emotional segment of last night’s State of the Union address, President Donald Trump paused his speech to honor two extraordinary American veterans with the Medal of Honor, the highest award for bravery in military service.The first recipient, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover, was recognized for his courage during a high-risk U.S. military operation earlier this year. Despite being seriously wounded when his helicopter came under heavy fire, Slover continued to lead and complete his mission — actions that earned him this prestigious recognition in front of a standing ovation from lawmakers and guests.WASHINGTON, DC -…
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.…
As corporations and public-facing organizations confront heightened security threats, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education has launched a Executive Protection: Private Executive and Corporate Protective Operations certificate program, designed to prepare professionals to protect leaders, communities and critical assets in an increasingly complex risk environment.Recent attacks targeting senior corporate executives, along with increased security concerns across the country, have intensified demand for highly trained executive protection professionals. Organizations nationwide are seeking security leaders capable of anticipating threats, assessing risk and operating effectively in high-visibility, dynamic environments.UC Irvine’s executive protection certificate program was developed by retired U.S. Secret Service special…
In all honesty, becoming a certified veteran-owned or service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprise (VOBE/SDVOBE) is no walk in the park. There is documentation to submit and research to be completed. The process can seem overwhelming to any business owner; however, earning this certification can be immensely helpful to your business. If you have been considering certification but want to be prepared, here are some things you should know before taking the leap: Certification Opens Doors Becoming a certified business owner is more than just a label; it’s one of the best ways to grow your business. As a VOBE or an…
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.…
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…
