Author: USVM

Accenture understands the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. An example of a leader who experienced that firsthand is Greg Anderson, a West Point graduate and former Army officer, who now serves as Chief Operating Officer of Accenture Human Resources. In addition to being an HR leader at one of the world’s most prominent consulting firms, he serves as the executive sponsor of Accenture’s Military Employee Resource Group (ERG). This role reflects both his personal history and professional mission. “Transitioning from the military to a civilian career can be difficult,” Anderson said in a recent interview with U.S. Veterans…

Read More

On Veterans Day, Dogtopia, the nation’s leading dog wellness franchise, and the Dogtopia Foundation celebrated the continued impact of their mission to help veterans across the country regain independence, confidence and connection through the life-changing companionship of service dogs. Founded in 2017, the @Dogtopia Foundation has expanded its reach alongside Dogtopia’s growth to more than 250 locations nationwide, united by a shared belief that dogs help our heroes.Reflecting on the Dogtopia Foundation’s Achievements Over the years, the Foundation has:Raised more than $5 million to fund the training of service dogs for veterans in needSupported more than 700 veteran-service dog teams nationwidePartnered with…

Read More

As the global energy landscape evolves, professionals in the oil and gas industry are being asked to walk a tightrope: maintain an affordable and reliable fuel supply while advancing toward net-zero emissions. Far from being a contradiction, balancing energy security and transition is becoming the core challenge—and opportunity—of modern energy careers.“Energy security and energy transition are not mutually exclusive,” said Daniel Yergin, vice chairman of S&P Global and chairman of CERAWeek, during the 2024 energy summit. “But it requires investment, realistic policy frameworks and alignment between governments, industry and the public.”The demand for oil and gas remains strong. According to…

Read More

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…

Read More

By Bailey Fletcher For many service members, the idea of earning a college degree while actively serving can seem daunting. With deployments, shifting schedules and the demands of military life, pursuing higher education might feel out of reach. But the truth is, thousands of service members and veterans earn degrees every year—thanks in large part to military-friendly colleges built to support them.The data backs up why this matters. According to 2024 employment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), veterans who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher enjoy a 53.3% employment rate, which is significantly higher than the 18.6% for…

Read More

ORLANDO, Nov. 8, 2025 – In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with the Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (Orlando VA), and the Gary Sinise Foundation, today welcomed nearly 100 local veterans, surviving spouses and children of fallen military and first responder heroes for a special tribute reception aboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras, celebrating their courage and sacrifice.During the event, Carnival announced the donation of an adapted sedan to the Orlando VA, supporting the organization’s specialized driving rehabilitation program to restore independence and improve the quality of life for veterans. The vehicle will help veterans determine…

Read More

By Mona Lisa Faris    As the publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine and a passionate advocate for veterans’ success, I have spent years understanding the unique skills and strengths that military veterans bring to the civilian workforce. One industry where veterans are particularly well-suited is the sports and fitness industry. Their military experience often translates seamlessly into the demanding and fast-paced nature of sports, providing them with valuable skills like leadership, teamwork, discipline, adaptability, a strong work ethic and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Additionally, the camaraderie and community aspect of sports can be especially beneficial for veterans transitioning back…

Read More

The Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) is stepping up to connect military veterans with career mentorship in the sports and fitness sector, thanks to its new VetsEXCEL Career Transition Program. Led by SFIA President and CEO Todd Smith, the initiative bridges the gap between transitioning service members and an industry with such strong alignment to the core values of the military community.Smith, who took the helm of SFIA in October 2024, brings decades of experience across athletics, professional sports and business leadership. A lifelong athlete, he walked onto the volleyball team at UCLA before earning a master’s degree in…

Read More

After surviving the Second Battle of Fallujah and enduring a long road to recovery, David Battle Jr. found healing and purpose not just in physical therapy or military honors—but on the football field.“I always say my toughest campaign began the day I came home,” said Battle, who suffered two gunshot wounds and a grenade blast during combat in Iraq in 2004. “I was told I’d never walk again—but after months of dragging my leg forward, falling more times than I can count, I eventually took my first steps. Three years later, I suited up to play junior college football. That…

Read More

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 Veterans Day 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. Food & Dining Applebee’s: Free full-size entrée from a special menu…

Read More