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…
Author: USVM
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…
When you’re part of the military community, financial planning often comes with a few extra layers—PCS moves, deployments, unexpected expenses, and big transitions can pop up with little notice. That’s why Navy Federal Credit Union’s newest offering feels especially timely. The 13-month Special Certificate is designed to help service members, veterans, and their families set aside money with intention, without sacrificing flexibility or peace of mind.This special certificate offers a 4.00% APY with just a $50 minimum deposit, delivering a return that’s more than twice the national average. Unlike a traditional savings account, it allows members to clearly separate everyday…
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…
The moving day will come when you’re transitioning out of the military. You might have spent time thinking about where you want to live when this day arrives. As you decide where to live after your military separation, it’s helpful to consider: Talk with your family The decision about your next home will affect the entire family, so include them in every step of the process. Here are some things you might want to think about: Consider your options Make a list and prioritize what is most important to you, like job opportunities, schools, climate or cost of living. Then,…
