Military families face unique challenges, from frequent relocations to parental deployments. To support military children and teens, the Department of Defense (DoD) and affiliated organizations offer a range of summer camps that provide enriching experiences, build resilience and foster friendships with peers who share similar life experiences. These programs cater to various age groups and interests, covering everything from outdoor adventures to STEM education. Here are some of the top summer camps available for military kids:Military Youth & Teen ProgramsDoD youth and teen programs operate year-round and provide supervised environments where military children can engage in activities that promote social…
Author: USVM
You’ve served your country, led teams, kept cool under pressure—and now, maybe you’re thinking about leading a classroom. Teaching can be a natural next chapter for military veterans. After all, you already have the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills schools are desperate for.But how exactly do you go from tactical gear to textbooks? Let’s walk through the process—step by step, without the jargon.Step 1: Know That You’re NeededFirst off, let’s get something straight: schools want veterans. Why? Because you bring:A strong sense of missionReal-life experienceGrit and resilienceThe ability to connect with students from all walks of lifeThere are even special…
By Brian Rolf As a veteran and business owner, I often reflect on how my time in the Marine Corps directly shaped the way I run my franchises. Transitioning from military service to becoming a Pet Supplies Plus franchisee was no easy feat. Still, the skills, discipline and mindset I developed in the military became the backbone of my success.Today, as I continue to grow my business, I’m eager to share how my fellow veterans can leverage their military experience to pursue their own entrepreneurial journey.Lead from the Front & Set the PaceOne of the biggest lessons I learned during…
Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can be daunting, but many veterans find that their skills and experiences are highly valued across various industries. Whether leaving active duty or retiring, veterans bring a wealth of qualities—discipline, leadership, adaptability and problem-solving—that make them an asset to employers in several key sectors. Here’s a look at some of the top industries hiring veterans.Logistics & Supply Chain ManagementVeterans are often drawn to the logistics and supply chain management sector due to their experience coordinating and overseeing the movement of goods, equipment and personnel in high-pressure environments. These skills translate to the civilian…
Sam Elliott’s voice is instantly recognizable—deep, rich and steeped in the history of the American West. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has embodied the rugged, principled cowboy and the battle-hardened Soldier, giving life to characters that have shaped the way audiences view heroism. But beyond the silver screen, Elliott’s dedication to honoring military service members is more than just a role—it’s a mission.Born Aug. 9, 1944, in Sacramento, California, Elliott grew up with a deep respect for the armed forces. After moving to Oregon as a teenager, he developed a passion for acting and studied theater…
After serving eight years in the military, Laquan Taylor returned home from his final tour only to face another battle—surviving after being shot 15 times. That journey led him to Neurofit360, an experience that changed his life. He’s bringing that same intensity and life-changing therapy to Atlanta through Neurofit360 ATL. We spoke with Taylor about his journey, the impact of Neurofit360 and his vision for the future.Tell us about your military background.I joined the Navy right after high school. I graduated in May and enlisted in December. I signed up to become an engineman, though I had no idea what…
By Paul Peng The United States Constitution is perhaps modern history’s oldest continuously operating sovereign contract. Signed in 1787 and enacted in 1789, this contract has been the foundation of our democracy for well over two centuries. It firmly establishes—in writing—the agreement made between a nation and its people. Yet despite this, a great many Americans know very little of this foundational document.If you were to ask your friends, co-workers, family or neighbors, how many do you think would confuse Veterans Day and Memorial Day (or vice versa)? How many would know what is said in our Constitution? Or what…
In a significant move aimed at addressing veteran homelessness, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on May 9, 2025, to establish the National Center for Warrior Independence on the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) campus. This initiative seeks to revitalize a historic site and provide comprehensive support to homeless veterans.Reviving a Historic CommitmentThe West LA VA campus, originally donated over a century ago with the intent to serve disabled veterans, has seen parts of its land leased to private entities over the years. The new executive order mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs to redirect the campus’s focus…
Transitioning from military service to academic life presents unique challenges for veterans. The structured environment of the military contrasts sharply with the self-directed nature of college, but with the right strategies, veterans can excel in higher education. From leveraging military-earned skills to finding the right support systems, here are key ways to succeed in college as a veteran:Veteran ResourcesMany colleges and universities offer dedicated support programs for veterans. Veteran resource centers provide guidance on financial aid, academic advising and career services tailored to military experience. The Student Veterans of America (SVA) organization also has chapters across campuses, offering peer support…
National University (NU)—a nonprofit, veteran-founded institution serving over 50,000 nontraditional, working, and military students annually through its degree programs and 80,000 more through its workforce and professional programs—today announced the launch of a “co-learning” center designed to provide comprehensive support services for the hard-working students balancing complex career, education and family responsibilities pursuing their education. Called the Nest—an homage to “Navi,” the university’s peregrine falcon mascot—the inaugural location will open on May 9th at National University’s main campus in San Diego, with a second location set to launch this year in Escondido. “The typical student today is an ANDer: a learner…
