For Brian Britton, service has always been more than a duty—it’s a calling. From the cockpit of a Navy patrol aircraft to the boardrooms of America’s most iconic companies, Britton’s journey exemplifies how military-honed leadership can shape successful careers in business. Today, as president and CEO of Kilwins—a beloved American confectionery brand—Britton is achieving sweet success while staying true to his core values of service, discipline and joy. Powered by Military Principles Britton’s military background is foundational to his leadership style. A naval flight officer for nine years, he was recognized as one of the top-performing P-3 Orion Tactical Commanders…
Author: USVM
In a groundbreaking moment for gender integration and combat readiness, Army First Lt. Gabrielle White has become the first woman to complete the Army’s elite Best Ranger Competition. The achievement not only breaks barriers but also highlights the evolving role of women in the most demanding corners of the military.White, 25, competed alongside Capt. Seth Deltenre, her teammate from the 101st Airborne Division. The duo finished 14th out of 52 teams during the grueling 62-hour event held in April at Fort Moore in Georgia, formerly known as Fort Benning. The physically punishing competition includes long-distance foot marches, land navigation, obstacle…
Transitioning from military service to higher education can present unique challenges for veterans and military spouses, as well as their children. Many colleges and universities have established veteran resource centers (VRCs) to assist military-affiliated students in navigating academic life, securing benefits and connecting with support networks.Academic Support & AdvisingOne of the key functions of a VRC is to provide academic support tailored to veterans and their families. Many centers offer dedicated advisors who understand the complexities of military benefits, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. These advisors can help students maximize their education benefits, select…
When it comes to serving veterans in higher education, Eastern Michigan University (EMU) stands as a national leader—not just in recognition but in action. At the heart of this commitment is Michael Wise, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who serves as the assistant director of EMU’s Kettles Military and Veteran Services Resource Center. Wise, whose military career brought him to EMU in 2010 as the professor of military science, has since become a guiding light in how the university supports student veterans and their families.“I want Eastern Michigan Military and Veterans Services to be the military-friendly aspect of our…
When Katie Burtch met her husband, Nick, she had no idea their love story would unfold across continents, deployments, and duty stations. Over the next two decades, Katie learned to navigate life as a military spouse — relocating every two to four years, raising three kids, and putting her own dreams on hold to keep her family moving forward.But when Nick transferred his GI Bill benefits to Katie, everything changed. Encouraged by his positive experience with American Military University (AMU), Katie enrolled and found a new path forward — one that could move her forward too.A Life Built on AdaptabilityKatie’s…
Many franchise companies across the U.S. are committed to supporting military veterans in their transition to business ownership. These veteran-friendly franchises often provide special incentives such as reduced franchise fees, financing assistance, and tailored training programs. By combining proven business models with veteran discipline and leadership skills, these opportunities create a strong pathway for veterans to succeed as entrepreneurs. The list of top veteran-friendly franchises highlights companies across industries—ranging from food & beverage and moving services to business services and travel—that actively welcome and empower veterans in their franchise networks. JDog BrandsIndustry: Junk Removal & Carpet CleaningA veteran-owned and operated…
For more than a decade, I have dedicated my career to helping veterans transition into IT roles. As the director of veteran affairs at SkillStorm for the past four years, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges veterans face when entering the tech industry.Before this role, I served 28 years in the Marine Corps, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. My own transition from military service made me realize how difficult the process can be—especially in the tech sector, where opportunities are abundant but barriers to entry remain high. That realization fuels my commitment to supporting veterans on their journey to a…
By Larry Broughton With ethical lapses in every nook and cranny of society occurring by the minute these days…it’s a fair question.From politicians that shamelessly lie (but keep getting elected) to business leaders who tank their companies (yet pocket millions), sports stars who display morals and values fit for a sociopath (while fans cheer) to welfare cheats who rip-off the system (but are never punished), the very concept of integrity seems at odds with today’s “modern” society.With so many seemingly lying, cheating and stealing…is integrity dead? If you’re in any sort of leadership position—and want to remain there for any…
By Austin HeneveldI joined the Navy straight out of high school after receiving an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Fourteen years later, after multiple deployments, thousands of flight hours and the birth of our son, I left the service. Standing at a crossroads, I had to ask myself the question every transitioning veteran faces: What do I want to be when I grow up?I saw two clear paths. One led to stability and comfort. The other was riskier but full of potential, a leap into entrepreneurship. The decision to walk away from the military wasn’t easy, but it was…
For military veterans and their families navigating the transition to civilian life, finding a university that truly understands their journey can make all the difference. At the University of South Alabama (South), that understanding is embedded in every layer of its culture. As a designated Top Yellow Ribbon School and Military Friendly Gold institution, South is earning national recognition for doing exactly what President Jo Bonner says the school is most proud of: serving those who have served.“It’s a major point of pride,” Bonner said. “The University of South Alabama is grateful for the sacrifices made by our military-affiliated students,…
