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…
Author: USVM
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…
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…
When Jennifer Ferrell and Kirstin Navaroli, better known as Jen and Kirst, met at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, neither could have imagined the community they would one day create together. Both were navigating the early stages of military spouse life—Jen newly married and Kirst not yet engaged—when they connected through their husbands’ shared background at the Air Force Academy. What began as a cautious friendship blossomed during their first deployments, ultimately evolving into a deep bond and a shared mission.Today, they are the co-founders of Wives of the Armed Forces (WAF), a growing online community that empowers military spouses across all…
Maureen Carlson understands that a safe, healthy home is more than just a roof over one’s head—it’s a foundation for opportunity. As president and CEO of Rebuilding Together, a national nonprofit dedicated to critical home repairs and community revitalization, Carlson brings decades of leadership in health systems and social impact to the forefront of a mission that deeply supports the veteran community.“Housing is the thread that connects health, equity and community,” Carlson said. “A safe, healthy home supports better physical and mental health, stronger families and more resilient communities. It’s where opportunity begins.”A Clear MissionSince joining the organization in 2024,…
When U.S. Veterans Magazine sat down with the leadership team of Learning Alliance, it was clear why the institution earned recognition as a Top Veteran School. Joining the conversation were Cesar Ruiz, President and Founder; Fred Arnold, Executive Director; Derrick Francis, Chief Operating Officer; and Ken Minter, Chief Revenue Officer. Each offered powerful insights into how Learning Alliance empowers veterans, helping them transition from military service to high-demand careers.Mission Rooted in ServiceFor Cesar Ruiz, who founded Learning Alliance 22 years ago, the recognition validates a mission that has always been focused on workforce development. “It just means that we’re doing…
